'How hot could it possibly be...' Tragic death of 26-year-old pro athlete... 'Severe heatstroke' after training amid Japan's record-breaking heatwave

*This content was translated by AI.

'As a record-breaking heatwave exceeding 40 degrees Celsius swept across Japan, a tragic incident occurred in which a 26-year-old professional rugby player developed symptoms of severe heatstroke after training and passed away.

Reuters reported on the 8th (Korean time) that "Simoni Bunilagi (26), a professional rugby player from Fiji, died after showing symptoms suspected to be heatstroke following a team training session in Japan."

Bunilagi played for Kyushu Denki Kuden Vorteks in the second division of the Japan Rugby League One. His position was back row.

According to reports, Bunilagi was transported to a hospital on the 3rd after exhibiting symptoms consistent with severe heatstroke following team training. Although he received treatment, his condition did not improve, and he ultimately passed away early on the 7th.

It was a tragedy that struck at just 26 years of age.

The Kyushu club stated, "Simoni recently joined the team but was a player who gathered great expectations for the upcoming season with his warm and generous personality and powerful playing style."

They further added, "We offer our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and pray for the repose of the deceased."

The news of Bunilagi's death has drawn even greater sorrow as it coincides with the extreme heatwave that has recently engulfed Japan.

Reuters reported, "Japan has been suffering from severe heatwaves over the past few weeks. In some cities, temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius."

Starting this year, Japan has introduced a new meteorological term called "orsho-il" (extreme heat day), which refers to days when the daily maximum temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or higher. This is one level more severe than the existing term "mangseo-il," which denotes days with temperatures of 35 degrees Celsius or above.

The Japan national rugby team also endured grueling matches amidst the intense heat.

On the 8th, Japan faced Australia in Osaka. The match was played under hot and humid conditions.

Reuters explained, "Due to extreme weather conditions, both teams were required to take mandatory water breaks at halftime."

Japan fought hard against Australia amidst the heat but ultimately lost the match.

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*This content was translated by AI.