Dangerously hot conditions have prevailed across wide areas of Japan. Temperatures reached 35 degrees Celsius or above on Sunday at 301 observation points -- the highest number so far this year.

In the western city of Kurume in Fukuoka Prefecture, the temperature hit 38.7 degrees Celsius.

About 8,000 people braved the heat to parade in its annual summer festival. One participant told NHK that it was so hot she felt as if her body was melting.

Daytime highs reached 39.2 degrees Celsius in several locations, including Kiryu City, north of Tokyo.

The extreme heat is taking a toll on agriculture.

Grape farmers in Fuefuki City in Yamanashi Prefecture are doing all they can to minimize damage.

"The upper part is so dry, just as if it's been burned," grape farmer Shimura Akio said. He has opened plastic grape covers in places to let out heated air. But Shimura says these steps are an extra burden for farmers.

Japanese weather officials are warning that the scorching heat is expected to last for another month.