The Japan Meteorological Agency announced the season’s first snow cover on Mt. Asahidake (2,291 m) in the Daisetsuzan range on 10/2 (Fri.). Because the observation method for recognizing the first snow cover changed on 8/1 (Sat.), no comparisons with last year or the long-term average are available. This was the first such observation anywhere in Japan this season.
*Through last season (＝7/31/2026), first snow cover was confirmed visually by staff at meteorological observatories. Beginning this season, observations are instead based on analyzed snow-depth data. This makes it possible to detect snow cover even when the summit is hidden by clouds or during nighttime hours.
*Reference: (tenki.jp)
*Light flurries were also observed around Hakuba Sanso on Mt. Hakuba (Shirouma) on 9/29 (Tue.), marking the mountain’s first snow of the season.