On March 26, 2025, a wave of yellow sand settled across Japan, particularly affecting the regions from western to eastern parts of the country. This meteorological phenomenon, accompanied by the Foehn effect, is raising temperatures significantly. Areas including Tokyo and Osaka are especially experiencing these weather changes as the maximum temperature reaches 27 degrees Celsius in Tokyo and 28 degrees Celsius in Miyazaki.
The phenomenon of yellow sand, a result of dust storms from the deserts of mainland China, poses both environmental and health risks. The Ministry of the Environment has advised residents to take precautions due to the potential for allergic reactions, such as conjunctivitis, sneezing, and runny noses, that might arise from the yellow sand that is currently in the air.
A notable element of today’s weather is that while yellow sand continues to blow into East Japan, a cold front is impacting the northern areas, including parts of Niigata where rain or even wet snow may mix with the yellow sand. Here, thunderstorms could potentially accompany the precipitation, which creates an unstable weather pattern.
As residents enjoy the warmer temperatures in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, they are advised to remain vigilant about the yellow sand, especially if they have allergies or respiratory issues. The Health Ministry has recommended wearing masks outdoors to limit inhalation of the dust, particularly on days when the yellow sand is reported to be prevalent. Also, it is vital to monitor health closely among sensitive individuals, including the elderly and children.
For car owners, the adherence of yellow sand to vehicles can result in scratches if one tries to wipe it off with a towel; therefore, high-pressure washing is recommended to ensure thorough cleaning without damage.
The yellow sand concentration is expected to decrease gradually throughout the day on March 26, yet it may still be significant enough to affect cleanliness, particularly in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions tonight. Thus, those in these areas should continue with caution, as outdoor cleaning of vehicles or laundry could lead to messier results.
Weather forecasts indicate an ongoing pattern, where the yellow sand may still impact the Kanto region even on March 27, underscoring how pervasive this weather effect can be. Furthermore, it is anticipated that rain will sweep through western Japan in the morning and shift to northern Japan and Hokuriku by the afternoon. Parts of Kanto can expect rain on March 28 as well, signaling a transition in the weather.
The latter part of the week is set to bring cooler temperatures once again. By March 29, rain will be confined to narrower areas, leading to a shift in the weather system, bringing in colder air and prompting temperatures to decline. This juxtaposition of warm and cooler days will likely lead to people experiencing 'Hana Biei' in regions where cherry blossoms bloom, as colder weather follows the earlier warmth.
In anticipated good news for cherry blossom enthusiasts, March 30 is expected to be mostly clear, potentially aligning with the full bloom of cherry blossoms in many regions. However, despite the clear forecast, lingering temperatures may be chilly, causing what is termed 'flower cold.'
As we step into April, predictions suggest that a low-pressure system could approach Honshu around April 1 and 2. With changes in weather ahead, residents are reminded to stay connected with the latest forecasts and take necessary precautions during this unpredictable transition into spring.
To avoid health issues during yellow sand episodes, it is crucial for individuals to remain informed about daily forecasts concerning yellow sand. Minimizing outdoor exposure on yellow sand days is also recommended, particularly for vulnerable populations. Children, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing respiratory or circulatory conditions should be more cautious about their outdoor activities during these periods.
In summary, while many regions prepare to enjoy warmer temperatures and the beauty of blossoming cherry trees, the presence of yellow sand serves as a reminder of the environmental challenges that call for our attention.
