In Japan, when the rainy season ends, summer arrives with full force. On July 4th, a forecast over the end of this year's rainy season was announced. The timing of the end of the rainy season is likely to be around July 20th to 22nd in various parts of Japan. However, the end of the rainy season in the northern part of Tohoku is expected to be around the 25th (Hokkaido, which has a different climate, does not have announcements for the start and end of the rainy season).

Rainy Season End Forecast
・Northern Tohoku: Around July 25th, earlier than the average year
・Southern Tohoku: Around July 22nd, same as the average year
・Hokuriku: Around July 22nd, same as the average year
・Kanto-Koshin: Around July 22nd, later than the average year
・Tokai: Around July 22nd, later than the average year
・Kinki: Around July 21st, same as the average year
・Chugoku: Around July 20th, same as the average year
・Shikoku: Around July 21st, later than the average year
・Northern Kyushu: Around July 20th, same as the average year
・Southern Kyushu: Around July 20th, later than the average year

During the rainy season, it will be hot and humid, so it's important to dress appropriately and protect yourself from the heat. It's also a good idea to carry an umbrella in case of unexpected rain.

In the summer of 2024, Japan is expected to be hotter than usual. This is because the El Niño phenomenon, which has been ongoing since spring 2023, is expected to come to an end.

El Niño refers to the phenomenon where sea surface temperatures become higher than usual in the equatorial Pacific region, from the International Date Line to the coast of South America. With the end of El Niño, the Pacific High strengthens, allowing warm and humid air to flow more easily. Consequently, the year following an El Niño event is known for increased global temperatures.

Following the end of the El Niño phenomenon, it is likely that either normal conditions will persist or a La Niña phenomenon might develop as we approach autumn.

La Niña is characterized by lower-than-average sea surface temperatures in the same equatorial Pacific regions affected by El Niño. When La Niña occurs, sea surface temperatures in the western equatorial Pacific rise above average. This can strengthen the Pacific High to the north, potentially adding to the conditions for increased temperatures.

As a result, Japan's summer in 2024 is likely to experience higher-than-average temperatures. When traveling in Japan during this season, be sure to stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and implement proper heatstroke prevention measures to enjoy your visit safely.