Heat wave claims 8 lives in Japan

TOKYO, July 27 (UPI) -- Soaring temperatures in western Japan claimed at least eight lives as residents struggled to stay cool this weekend, the Meteorological Agency said.

The warmest weather was reported in Tajimi, Gifu Prefecture, where temperatures reached 102.2 degrees, and in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture, where it was 101.12 degrees, Kyodo News reported.

A 64-year-old man died Saturday after experiencing heatstroke while jogging and an 80-year-old man died from overheating the same day in Yamatokoriyama, Nara Prefecture, officials said.

A 79-year-old woman is thought to have died from extreme heat in Nagoya.

Authorities said at least five other people died and 10 suffered health problems Saturday related to extreme heat.

Forecasters predict Japan's heat wave will last until around Aug. 8.