Temperatures soared to dangerous levels across Japan, with some eastern parts of the country topping 38 degrees Celsius.

Japan's Meteorological Agency says the rainy season appears to have ended in the Kanto-Koshin and Tokai regions. Authorities have issued heatstroke alerts in many areas.

As of 2 p.m. on Monday, daytime highs reached 38.5 degrees in the city of Toyota in Aichi Prefecture, and 38.4 in Daigo Town in Ibaraki Prefecture. The mercury rose to 36 degrees in central Tokyo.

People are advised to use air conditioners, stay hydrated and consume enough salt. They are also advised to avoid staying outdoors for long periods, and to pay attention to infants and the elderly.

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