Tokyo, Dec 29 (IANS) – Japan's average temperature in 2024 is on track to reach a record high for the second consecutive year, as per preliminary data released by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
The average temperature from January to November was 1.64°C higher than the 30-year annual average up to 2020, marking the highest level since JMA began recording data in 1898, Kyodo News reported via Xinhua.
Key Findings
Record Temperatures:
The average surface temperature of seas around Japan was 1.46°C above the annual average as of late November, surpassing the 2023 record (data available since 1908).
The five years from 2019 to 2023 are now the top five hottest years on record for Japan.
Contributing Factors:
Warm air transported by westerly winds shifting further north than usual.
Long-term global warming trends.
Seasonal Weather Patterns:
Despite record temperatures, Japan has seen seasonal snowfall, including the first snowfall in Tokyo on December 19—15 days earlier than average.
Heavy snow warnings were issued on December 23 for northern to western regions along the Sea of Japan.
Snow accumulation reached about 20 cm in areas such as Hirakawa City (Aomori Prefecture) and Minakami Town (Gunma Prefecture).
Warnings and Concerns
The JMA has urged vigilance in regions experiencing heavy snowfall, warning of avalanches and potential damage from snow accumulation on infrastructure such as electric wires and trees.
The rising temperatures highlight the growing impact of climate change, with experts emphasizing the need for continued efforts to mitigate global warming's effects.