Tropical cyclones give rise to unique type of heat wave in Japan

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have categorized a unique, previously unclassified type of heat wave in Japan, so-called "moist heat waves" which are accompanied by an approaching tropical cyclone. These heat waves are accompanied by high humidity and/or heavy precipitation, and their frequency has been rising over the last 30 years, accounting for approximately a quarter of the heat wave days surveyed. They may potentially trigger multiple natural hazards at once.