Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain, has not seen snow cover this late in the year since meteorological records began in 1894, with 2023 marking the first time that the expected snowfall has eluded the mountain past early October. According to data from AFP News Agency, snow was first observed on the summit only on October 5, a stark deviation from the natural patterns of previous years when early October typically saw the mountain don its white cap.
Japan has sweltered through its hottest summer on record, with temperatures in June through August averaging an alarming 1.76C (35.1F) above the norm. This trend persisted through September as a shift in the subtropical jet stream allowed warmer air to dominate the region. The jet stream, a significant atmospheric phenomenon, forms when warmer southern air collides with cooler northern air, significantly impacting weather patterns.
Last month, nearly 1,500 regions across Japan experienced what the Meteorological Society classified as "extremely hot" days, with temperatures soaring over 35C (95F). As the conditions for snow require near-freezing temperatures, this continuing warmth has delayed the onset of seasonal snow at Mount Fuji.
While October has brought some relief in the form of slightly cooler temperatures, it has still remained above average. Moving into November without any snowfall sets a new record for Mount Fuji, surpassing the previous latest date of October 26, recorded in 1955 and 2016. Yutaka Katsuta, a forecaster at Kofu Local Meteorological Office, emphasized the significant implications of this delay for environmental trends and local ecosystems.
Mount Fuji, standing proud at 3,776m (12,460 ft), is not only a natural landmark but also a cultural icon, recognized for its prominence in traditional Japanese art, including famous woodblock prints. In 2022, over 220,000 climbers ascended the mountain, highlighting its continuing allure despite changing environmental conditions. As Japan grapples with the realities of climate change, the case of Mount Fuji serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for environmental stewardship and preservation efforts.
