On March 25, 2025, an uncharacteristically warm weather pattern swept across Japan, ushering in spring-like temperatures that many locations typically do not experience until late April or even June. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, cities such as Miyazaki, Kochi, Tokyo, and various locations in Chiba, Kanagawa, and Saitama recorded summer days, where temperatures exceeded 25 degrees Celsius.
In Miyazaki City, the temperature soared to 28.5 degrees Celsius—typically a reading more common in late June. Meanwhile, Shimanto City in Kochi Prefecture registered 27.4 degrees Celsius, prompting residents and meteorologists alike to take notice. Indeed, numerous areas in western Japan shattered previous records for the highest March temperatures.
The weather in Tokyo's Nerima Ward reached 25.6 degrees Celsius, with the central city reaching 25.0 degrees. Kanagawa's Odawara City recorded a temperature of 25.8 degrees Celsius, while Saitama's Koshigaya City hit 25.6 degrees and Mobara City in Chiba saw a high of 25.4 degrees. "It's hard to choose clothes with the sudden warmth," commented a local Mobara resident, reflecting the bewilderment of many in light of the abrupt change in weather.
Chiba Prefecture was particularly affected by this weather system, which brought dry skies and temperatures reminiscent of late spring. Mobara City, alongside Ichihara City's Ushiku, experienced high temperatures surpassing 25 degrees Celsius. Mobara City specifically noted a maximum temperature of 25.5 degrees. Chiba City's Chuo Ward reported a high of 22.7 degrees, marking the warmest day of the year for the area thus far.
As locals took advantage of the unusually warm weather, many were seen strolling among the cherry blossoms in Mobara Park, which boasts around 2,000 cherry trees of various types. With flowers blooming, families and photographers alike gathered to capture the moment, taking in the beauty of the season. The cheerful scenes contrasted sharply with the weather-related health advisories that accompanied this marked shift in climate.
The Meteorological Agency also issued warnings regarding yellow sand carried over from the continent, confirming its presence across the Japanese archipelago. This phenomenon was particularly concerning as it posed health risks, with visibility potentially dropping below 5 kilometers in some regions. "We advise residents to wear masks and take precautions due to lowered visibility and potential health impacts," the agency stated. This yellow sand, blown in by strong winds, had already been observed in major urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka.
Predictions for March 26, 2025, suggested that the warm weather would persist, with expected daytime highs of 25 degrees Celsius in Chiba City, 24 degrees in Choshi City, and 23 degrees in Tateyama City. However, with the combination of heightened temperatures and the spread of yellow sand, the health of residents and their daily activities might be affected.
Residents were encouraged to exercise caution, particularly those sensitive to allergens or with respiratory ailments. The Meteorological Agency reinforced the need for awareness surrounding weather conditions that could worsen health issues, especially allergies exacerbated by the yellow sand.
This unusual warm spell, alongside the challenges of yellow sand, highlights a growing concern about climate variability in Japan. As the nation navigates seasonal weather extremes, the impacts on daily living and health may prompt broader discussions on climate action and weather preparedness.
As warmer days continue in the coming weeks, many will undoubtedly enjoy the early onset of spring while remaining vigilant about the increasingly unpredictable nature of Japan's weather patterns.
