This year, Mount Fuji remains entirely bare of snow, stretching the period without a cap longer than ever before since official records began in 1894. Typically, the mountain, which stands at 3,776 meters (12,460 feet), sees its first sprinkle of snow by early October, but unusually high temperatures have delayed this phenomenon. In 2023, snow was first sighted at the summit on October 5, according to reports from AFP news agency.
Record-Breaking Snowlessness at Mount Fuji Raises Climate Concerns
Record-Breaking Snowlessness at Mount Fuji Raises Climate Concerns
Japan's iconic Mount Fuji has experienced an unprecedented lack of snow, marking the latest date on record for snowless conditions in its 130-year history.
Japan confronted its hottest summer on record this year, with temperatures from June to August averaging a staggering 1.76°C (about 35.1°F) above normal. Subsequent warmer-than-expected temperatures persisted into September, largely influenced by the subtropical jet stream shifting further north, which allowed warm air to flow into the region.
The Japan Meteorological Society reported that nearly 1,500 locations in the country were categorized as experiencing "extremely hot" conditions throughout September, defined as days when temperatures hit or exceeded 35°C (95°F). With average temperatures remaining high, the conditions necessary for snowfall—specifically, temperatures reaching near freezing—have yet to prevail.
Though October has brought some slight relief from the heat, it continues to be warmer than usual. As November approaches without any snowfall, Mount Fuji is now witnessing the longest delay in its seasonal snowcap since records started. Previously, the last recorded snow arrival occurred on October 26, a date that has been reached in 1955 and 2016. Yutaka Katsuta, a forecaster at the Kofu Local Meteorological Office, commented on these peculiar weather patterns.
With its proximity to Tokyo, Mount Fuji not only represents Japan's highest point but also serves as a significant cultural symbol, often depicted in traditional artwork and drawing vibrant tourist attention; over 220,000 climbers scaled its heights last year alone. However, ongoing climate phenomena are raising concerns about the future of this iconic natural landmark, prompting reactions and resulting in measures to mitigate tourism impacts and protect the environment.
The Japan Meteorological Society reported that nearly 1,500 locations in the country were categorized as experiencing "extremely hot" conditions throughout September, defined as days when temperatures hit or exceeded 35°C (95°F). With average temperatures remaining high, the conditions necessary for snowfall—specifically, temperatures reaching near freezing—have yet to prevail.
Though October has brought some slight relief from the heat, it continues to be warmer than usual. As November approaches without any snowfall, Mount Fuji is now witnessing the longest delay in its seasonal snowcap since records started. Previously, the last recorded snow arrival occurred on October 26, a date that has been reached in 1955 and 2016. Yutaka Katsuta, a forecaster at the Kofu Local Meteorological Office, commented on these peculiar weather patterns.
With its proximity to Tokyo, Mount Fuji not only represents Japan's highest point but also serves as a significant cultural symbol, often depicted in traditional artwork and drawing vibrant tourist attention; over 220,000 climbers scaled its heights last year alone. However, ongoing climate phenomena are raising concerns about the future of this iconic natural landmark, prompting reactions and resulting in measures to mitigate tourism impacts and protect the environment.
