Three lions die in Tokyo as record-breaking temperatures hit East Asia

Three lions died of suspected heatstroke at Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park as Japan experienced record-breaking temperatures and high humidity in summer 2026. The zoo suspended its lion exhibit in late July after multiple big cats showed symptoms including loss of appetite and fatigue. Officials have strengthened cooling measures to protect the remaining animals amid what authorities describe as one of East Asia's most severe heat waves on record.