As Japan grapples with climate anomalies, Mount Fuji marks a historic milestone, remaining snowless into late October for the first time in over a century.
Mount Fuji Experiences Record-Breaking Snowless Period as Climate Change Impact Deepens
Mount Fuji Experiences Record-Breaking Snowless Period as Climate Change Impact Deepens
Unprecedented warmth leaves Japan's iconic mountain devoid of snow later than ever, highlighting climate trends.
Despite typical snowfall patterns, Mount Fuji is still snow-free, marking the latest date on record for this phenomenon, observed for the first time since 1894. The mountain, which usually witnesses its first snow by early October, has been spared due to an unusual string of warm weather this year. As of October 5, 2023, no snow had blanketed the 3,776-meter-high peak, a stark contrast to previous years when autumn brought in cooler temperatures.
This year's climate has been marked by extreme warmth, with Japan experiencing its joint hottest summer on record. From June to August, temperatures soared to 1.76°C (35.1°F) above the seasonal average. September also brought above-average warmth linked to a more northern jet stream, which allowed for an influx of warmer air across the country. According to Japan's Meteorological Society, nearly 1,500 locations experienced "extremely hot" days, where temperatures reached or exceeded 35°C (95°F).
While October has provided some relief with slight temperature drops, it remains warmer than usual, leaving the iconic peak snowless as November approaches. This unprecedented wait marks a significant shift in climatic patterns, surpassing the previous record of October 26, noted in 1955 and 2016.
Mount Fuji, not only a geological marvel but also a cultural symbol and UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to draw tourists, with over 220,000 climbers visiting during the summer months last year. However, with the snow absence marking a troubling trend in climate change, observers are left pondering the future of this cherished natural monument.
This year's climate has been marked by extreme warmth, with Japan experiencing its joint hottest summer on record. From June to August, temperatures soared to 1.76°C (35.1°F) above the seasonal average. September also brought above-average warmth linked to a more northern jet stream, which allowed for an influx of warmer air across the country. According to Japan's Meteorological Society, nearly 1,500 locations experienced "extremely hot" days, where temperatures reached or exceeded 35°C (95°F).
While October has provided some relief with slight temperature drops, it remains warmer than usual, leaving the iconic peak snowless as November approaches. This unprecedented wait marks a significant shift in climatic patterns, surpassing the previous record of October 26, noted in 1955 and 2016.
Mount Fuji, not only a geological marvel but also a cultural symbol and UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to draw tourists, with over 220,000 climbers visiting during the summer months last year. However, with the snow absence marking a troubling trend in climate change, observers are left pondering the future of this cherished natural monument.
