The iconic Japanese mountain, standing at 3,776 meters, has not seen any snow accumulation so far this season, marking the latest point in recorded history for such an occurrence.
Unprecedented Warmth: Mount Fuji Remains Snowless Until Late October
Unprecedented Warmth: Mount Fuji Remains Snowless Until Late October
Mount Fuji's peak remains devoid of snow, setting a new late-season record due to unusual temperatures.
With a persistent warm weather pattern impacting Japan, Mount Fuji has yet to receive its customary dusting of snow, a phenomenon usually occurring by early October. This year marks the first time in 130 years of data that the mountain remains bare so late in the season. The last snowfall on the summit was observed on October 5 in 2023, breaking the previous record where snow first appeared on October 26, which has occurred twice, in 1955 and 2016.
The summer of 2023 recorded unprecedented heat, with average temperatures soaring 1.76°C (35.1°F) above normal from June through August, contributing to this year’s unusual climate patterns. September continued the trend, with Japan's Meteorological Society reporting nearly 1,500 regions experiencing "extremely hot" days, defined as temperatures reaching or exceeding 35°C (95°F).
As October progresses, temperatures remain above average although there has been a slight decrease in heat. The unique atmospheric conditions, influenced by changes in the jet stream, have resulted in a warmer flow of air across Japan—a setup that mitigates the likelihood of snow formation, which generally requires temperature to hover around freezing.
Mount Fuji, an enduring symbol of Japan, is a popular destination for hikers and has drawn over 220,000 climbers in 2022 alone during the peak months of July through September. Despite the current lack of snow, Mount Fuji's stature as an emblem of Japanese culture, art, and nature persists. As the country shifts into November, locals and visitors alike await the arrival of winter on this famed volcano, which has remained dormant for over 300 years.
The summer of 2023 recorded unprecedented heat, with average temperatures soaring 1.76°C (35.1°F) above normal from June through August, contributing to this year’s unusual climate patterns. September continued the trend, with Japan's Meteorological Society reporting nearly 1,500 regions experiencing "extremely hot" days, defined as temperatures reaching or exceeding 35°C (95°F).
As October progresses, temperatures remain above average although there has been a slight decrease in heat. The unique atmospheric conditions, influenced by changes in the jet stream, have resulted in a warmer flow of air across Japan—a setup that mitigates the likelihood of snow formation, which generally requires temperature to hover around freezing.
Mount Fuji, an enduring symbol of Japan, is a popular destination for hikers and has drawn over 220,000 climbers in 2022 alone during the peak months of July through September. Despite the current lack of snow, Mount Fuji's stature as an emblem of Japanese culture, art, and nature persists. As the country shifts into November, locals and visitors alike await the arrival of winter on this famed volcano, which has remained dormant for over 300 years.
