Tokyo Olympic organisers insisted Thursday they would take no chances with the safety of athletes competing in the fierce summer heat at the 2020 Games.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was given a timely reminder of Japan's vulnerability to natural disasters this week as heavy rains battered the west of the country, leaving more than 200 people dead.
"I was here as the floods impacted," IOC vice president John Coates told reporters on the final day of a three-day visit.
"We expressed our sorrow and condolences to those affected. I certainly hope there are no such natural disasters during Games -- but I am mindful we have to prepare for extreme heat here."
Coates, who is also chairman of the IOC's Coordination Committee for the 2020 Tokyo Games, added: "Japan is not the first country to host a Games in extreme heat and it is a natural consequence of it being July and August, I'm afraid."
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"We want to make sure there are areas for athletes and officials to be looked after where it's air-conditioned, and we need to make sure there is medical attention available."
Coates promised that events such as the marathon would begin early to beat the blazing summer heat, adding: "It's a likelihood that has to be prepared for."
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