Tokyo has recorded 35 consecutive days of rainfall, the longest such streak since official weather records began in 1886, as a combination of El Niño and climate change contributes to unusually persistent wet weather.
Central Tokyo received 629mm of rain between the beginning of September and Monday, almost three times the normal amount for the period. The capital also recorded only 45.8 hours of sunshine, while 14 days passed without any sunshine at all.
The prolonged rainfall is already affecting economic activity. Damage to crops in agricultural areas around Tokyo has pushed up vegetable prices, with the price of lettuce reportedly more than doubling at one supermarket. Tourism and daily life have also been disrupted as residents struggle with persistent wet conditions.
Medical professionals have reported symptoms including headaches and dizziness associated with prolonged low atmospheric pressure and high humidity, while residents have described growing frustration over the lack of dry weather.
Japan’s meteorological agency said autumn rain fronts have remained over the region longer than usual. Officials also warned that another typhoon could affect the Kanto region, where Tokyo is located.
Scientists caution that establishing a direct link between climate change and this particular rainfall streak is difficult, although Japan’s weather agency says global warming is influencing the country’s long-term precipitation patterns.
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