Mount Fuji Experiences Unprecedented Snowless Streak for October

Mount Fuji remains bare of snow later in the year than ever documented, raising concerns over climate patterns.

Mount Fuji is currently experiencing an unprecedented streak of being snow-free, marking the latest date in recorded history that it has remained bare. This unusual phenomenon has gone on for 130 years, with the iconic mountain usually receiving its first dusting of snow by early October. However, 2023 has defied these expectations, as the peak has yet to receive any snowfall, attributed largely to unusually warm weather conditions.

The previous snow-capped peaks were observed as late as October 5 in 2023, as reported by the AFP news agency. This year's summer was particularly noteworthy, tying for the hottest on record in Japan, with average temperatures between June and August soaring by 1.76°C (35.1°F) above the norm. The warm weather persisted into September as a sub-tropical jet stream, typically well-distributed, shifted northwards, allowing warmer air to flow freely over Japan.

The Japan Meteorological Society noted that nearly 1,500 locations experienced what they deem "extremely hot" days last month, characterized by temperatures reaching or surpassing 35°C (95°F). For snow to form, the temperatures must drop around the freezing mark, making the current conditions quite unsuitable for the typical accumulation of snow.

As October progresses, temperatures have slightly eased; however, the averages still remain elevated. Approaching November without any snowfall signifies a record wait for a snowcap on Mount Fuji, beating the previous latest date of October 26, which was observed in both 1955 and 2016. Yutaka Katsuta, a forecaster at the Kofu Local Meteorological Office, highlighted the significance of this record-breaking trend.

Known as Japan's highest mountain at 3,776 meters (12,460 feet), Mount Fuji is a dormant volcano that last erupted over 300 years ago. Its silhouette is often visible from Tokyo on clear days and has been immortalized in various forms of historical artwork, including traditional woodblock prints. In 2022, over 220,000 adventurers trekked to its peak during the summer months, illustrating its ongoing allure despite changing climate conditions.