The Japan Meteorological Agency announced the season’s first snow cover on Mt. Hakkoda (1,584 m) on 10/22 (Thu.). This was the first observation of its kind on Honshu this season. Because the observation method changed on 8/1 (Sat.), no comparison with last year or the long-term average is available.
*Snow cover was also confirmed on Mt. Iwaki (1,625 m).
*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: RAB Aomori Broadcasting Corporation