Mount Fuji in Japan has yet to receive snow this year, marking the latest snowfall delay since record-keeping began 130 years ago, BBC reports.
The summit usually receives its first snowfall by early October, but warm weather has delayed this year’s snowfall. Meanwhile, Japan experienced its hottest summer on record, with temperatures from June to August averaging 1.76°C (3.1°F) above normal. In September, nearly 1,500 areas recorded “extremely hot” days, with temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F).
The previous record for the latest snowfall was October 26, noted in 1955 and 2016. Climate experts suggest that this trend aligns with predictions for a warming climate, although individual weather events cannot be directly attributed to climate change. Last year, snow was first reported on October 5.
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain at 3,776 meters, is a significant cultural symbol and popular hiking destination. Last year, over 220,000 people ascended the peak during the summer months.
