Japan’s National Police Agency released statistics on the 10th, showing that a total of 647 mountain accidents occurred between July and August this year, an increase of 64 from the same period last year, marking the highest number for four consecutive years. The number of people in distress rose by 83 to 782, surpassing last year’s figure and setting a new record since data collection began in 1968. Deaths and missing persons increased by 13 to 65.
According to a report by Kyodo News, the surge in hiking popularity among middle-aged and elderly individuals is the main reason. A spokesperson from the National Police Agency warned: “We hope people do not overestimate their physical strength and plan their hikes reasonably.”
By prefecture, Nagano had the most accidents, with 108 incidents, followed by Toyama with 69 and Shizuoka with 62. In terms of age groups among those in distress, people aged 40 and above accounted for 72.1% of the total, totaling 564 individuals; if only those aged 60 and above are counted, the number was 344, making up 44.0% of the total.
(China Times)