Japan has recorded its hottest autumn since 1898, with average temperatures soaring 1.97°C above normal between September and November, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The unusually warm season follows a record-breaking summer that claimed hundreds of lives due to heatstroke.
Temperature Anomalies Across Major Cities
The heatwave extended across Japan, affecting major cities:
- Tokyo: Average temperatures were 2.4°C above normal.
- Nagoya: Recorded a 2.9°C rise, making it one of the hardest-hit cities.
- Sapporo: Experienced a 1.2°C increase.
The prolonged warmth delayed autumn foliage displays, with peak viewing in Tokyo now expected around 5 December, more than a month later than usual.
Impact on Iconic Mount Fuji and Foliage
Japan’s famed Mount Fuji remained snowless deep into autumn—a phenomenon not seen in over 130 years. Typically snow-covered by mid-October, Mount Fuji shattered previous records for delayed snowfall. The late arrival of autumn also affected the vibrant ginkgo and maple tree displays, forcing seasonal tourism to adapt to new timelines.
Climate Crisis and Global Implications
The unusual weather is part of a broader pattern of climate change-driven anomalies:
- A study by Climate Central found that Japan’s prolonged heatwave was three times more likely due to the climate crisis.
- Globally, 2024 is on track to become the hottest year on record, with temperatures exceeding 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
Record Heatstroke Deaths in Tokyo
The extreme summer heat had deadly consequences:
- 252 deaths were reported in Tokyo alone between June and September.
- Most victims were elderly, found in homes without air conditioning, highlighting the need for improved climate resilience measures.
Future Concerns
Japan’s warm autumn serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. Prolonged seasonal disruptions not only impact local ecosystems and tourism but also pose significant public health risks.
