Key Facts
• June 27: Japan Meteorological Agency announced rainy season ended in Kyushu, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kinki regions.
• This marks the earliest end since 1951 for Kyushu North to Kinki; second earliest for Kyushu South.
• Hiroshima recorded 31.2°C on June 27, with clear skies and intense sunlight.
• Tokyo forecasted to reach 35°C on June 28, with no rain expected in coming days.
• Meteorologist Masamitsu Morita suggests the rainy season has “effectively ended” nationwide.
• Recent years show a trend of less defined rainy seasons, with longer sunny periods and intense downpours.
• “Positive rainy season” phenomenon, characterized by irregular rainfall patterns, is becoming more common.
Summary
Western Japan experienced an unprecedentedly early end to the rainy season, with the Japan Meteorological Agency confirming the announcement on June 27. This marks the earliest conclusion since 1951 for several regions, including Kyushu North and Kinki. Hiroshima saw temperatures soar to 31.2°C under clear skies, while Tokyo is expected to reach 35°C on June 28, with no rain in sight. Meteorologist Masamitsu Morita explained that the strengthening Pacific high-pressure system has likely caused the rainy season to “effectively end” across Japan. Recent years have seen a shift in rainy season patterns, with longer sunny periods and sporadic heavy rainfall, a phenomenon referred to as the “positive rainy season.”
