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Tokyo enjoyed a sunny weekend after a record 37 consecutive days of rain, Japan’s weather agency said Monday.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said the unprecedented rainy spell lasted from August 27 to October 2, marking the longest consecutive period of rainy days in the capital since records began in 1886.
“The longest streak of rainy days continued from August 27 to October 2, making 37 consecutive days of rain,” JMA official Eri Kawanami told AFP.
Tokyo’s rainy season normally occurs in June. But the capital experienced repeated heavy downpours throughout the summer, while severe flooding also hit parts of the wider Tokyo metropolitan area.
Since the beginning of September, Tokyo received 696.5 millimetres (27.4 inches) of rain, more than three times the normal amount for the period, according to the JMA.
Experts say climate change, driven by fossil fuel emissions, is increasing the amount of moisture in the atmosphere and making intense rainfall more likely.
Weather patterns this year have also been influenced by the El Niño phenomenon, which can alter winds, air pressure and cloud patterns, bringing heavy rain to some regions while causing drought in others.
Meanwhile, severe flooding in Thailand has affected around 1.7 million people after an intense weather system hit the country. At least 23 people have died since mid-September, according to reports.
