Three lionesses die in Tokyo zoo as heatwave scorches East Asia

A record-breaking heatwave stretching across East Asia is straining animals, health systems and people.Published On 4 Aug 20264 Aug 2026Three lions at a Tokyo zoo have died from suspected heatstroke, as record-breaking temperatures in East Asia haveprompted South Korea’s president to declare a national disaster.South Korean President Lee Jae Myung told officials at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday to ensure support for those worst affected by the heat and inspect power systems as air conditioning demand surges.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3Why are the Washington wildfires so severe?list 2 of 3Dangerous summers: How heatwaves and wildfires change life across Europelist 3 of 3South Korea has hottest day on record amid extreme weather globallyend of listThe Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said the death toll from the heatwave has risen to 19, including 13 people aged 80 or above. Since May 15, ⁠2,025 people have suffered heat-related illnesses nationwide, according to data from the weather agency.“An even greater concern is that abnormal weather conditions make it highly likely that extreme weather will continue for a considerable period,” said Lee, who wants a...