Japan is witnessing significant weather changes on March 3rd, 2025, with rain and snow affecting various regions. These sudden shifts come after weeks of warmer weather, as the country prepares for unusually cold temperatures and precipitation.
According to reports from Weather News, rain began to fall early this morning, with Tokyo recording 11.5mm of precipitation by 10 AM. This marks the first substantial rainfall since February 2nd, when low pressure systems affected the southern Kanto area. Most of the country has been under severe weather constraints due to winter-type atmospheric pressure patterns, resulting in record low rainfall.
“Rain is expected to start from early morning today, with recorded precipitation already measuring 11.5mm by 10 AM,” said Weather News. These meteorological changes are welcomed after the past month's conditions, where the Tokyo region reported only 9% of normal precipitation, which had raised concerns for crops and water supplies. Today’s rain is considered beneficial for irrigation needs.
Temperatures across Japan have also seen dramatic declines. For example, by 11 AM on March 3rd, many areas were reported to be at least 10 degrees cooler than the previous day. Tokyo dropped to 5.2°C, and Sendai saw even sharper declines at 3.7°C. The drop is attributed primarily to the southward movement of cold air masses and precipitation moving through, which has radically changed the weather perception from the previous day, when warm sunshine hinted at spring.
“Today's weather changes will see temperatures descend sharply, with regions experiencing drops of over 10 degrees from yesterday,” Weather News noted. They urged residents to be cautious of these rapid fluctuations, as the stark difference can lead to health issues, particularly for those unprepared for the return to winter-like conditions.
Specifically, the Kanto region, which encompasses the greater Tokyo area, may experience temporary sleet and wet snow. Although these forecasted weather patterns are concerning, experts indicate accumulation on roads should be minimal. “There may be temporary sleet and wet snow, particularly across the southern Kanto region, but accumulation on roads is unlikely,” emphasized the report.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as snow and rain continue throughout the day, particularly since localized heavy showers are possible. While some regions, like the Tohoku southwards, might see slight improvements by the afternoon, the Kanto area remains subject to stringent weather conditions.
The cooling trend being felt this week is prevalent across many other Japanese cities, with even places like Fukuoka experiencing drops down to 10.1°C. Warnings are already being circulated as various prefectures prepare for the expected arrival of colder air masses, following the atmospheric changes this week.
Weather experts conclude this pattern signifies the end of abnormally warm weather and the actual start of what feels like winter again. Local weather stations stress the need for appropriate clothing and self-care as conditions shift back to cold. Health risks associated with sudden temperature drops, such as respiratory ailments, could spike if people underestimate these rapid changes.
Weather forecasts indicate temperatures will continue to lower as pressure patterns stabilize after this recent shift. Without question, today serves as both a wakeup call for the necessity of preparedness against potential health issues and adverse weather as Japan slowly transitions back to its winter climate.
For many, the pleasant warmth of the preceding days might have been misleading, and the reality of March 3rd delivers the stark reminder of Japan’s capricious weather patterns. Residents are urged to follow updates closely as conditions continue to evolve throughout the day.