Scorching heat continues to grip Japan on Monday, pushing temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius in many places.

A daytime high of 38 degrees is forecast for Kyoto City, and 37 degrees for the cities of Aizuwakamatsu, Osaka, Tottori and Saga. The temperature in central Tokyo is expected to hit 35 degrees.

Heatstroke alerts have been issued for many prefectures across Japan. Weather officials are asking people to check the Heat Stress Index, which is based on temperature, humidity and solar radiation, and take necessary precautions.

In northern Kyushu and Tohoku, warm, damp air and rising temperatures are expected to create unstable atmospheric conditions, bringing thunderstorms later on Monday.

Officials are urging people to be on the alert for mudslides, flooding in low-lying areas, swollen rivers, lightning strikes and strong gusts, including tornados.