Early Arrival of Cherry Blossom Season in Japan Forecasted

The cherry blossom season in Japan is forecasted to start earlier than usual, especially in northern regions. The Somei-yoshino variety will bloom in Uwajima as early as March 19, with Tokyo expected to see blooms on March 22. Other cities follow closely in succession, reflecting a trend of early blooming this year.

Cherry blossom season in parts of Japan is expected to begin earlier than normal this year, particularly in the northern regions. The Japan Weather Association has indicated that the Somei-yoshino variety will bloom as early as March 19 in Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture, marking the earliest bloom nationwide.

Further forecasts predict that in central Tokyo, flowering will commence on March 22, followed by Kagoshima and Kochi on March 23, and Fukuoka on March 24. The blooms are anticipated to appear in Nagoya on March 25, while Hiroshima and Osaka will see blossoms begin on March 27.

In northern Japan, Sendai is expected to experience blooms on April 2, with Sapporo scheduled for April 25. Western cities like more traditionally see blooms starting around the usual timeframe, while eastern Japan is expected to bloom either on time or slightly earlier.

Another weather service, Weathernews, has also released its predictions, suggesting a similar timeline. They forecast March 23 for Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kochi cities, with Central Tokyo and Hiroshima experiencing blossoms on March 24. Nagoya is anticipated to bloom on March 25, and Osaka on March 26.

Weathernews also predicts Sendai will see blooms on April 5 and Sapporo on April 24. Their forecasts indicate that while the blooming in western and eastern regions will typically align with past patterns, a slight advance is expected in Tohoku. Hokkaido may see blossoms early or even earlier than usual, prompting regular updates from meteorological services depending on emerging data.

This year’s cherry blossom forecasts indicate an early bloom, particularly noticeable in northern and eastern Japan. Major cities will experience blossoming earlier than standard dates, with some cities observing blooms weeks ahead of usual. Weather forecasts will continue to be monitored for updates regarding bloom timings and peak conditions.

Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp