Japan to extend weather forecasts in response to climate change

Japan's meteorological agency has announced plans to extend its weather forecasts from seven to two weeks, responding to the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events caused by climate change. Last summer, Japan experienced its hottest season on record, while recent torrential rains in the Chiba region resulted in at least 13 deaths.

The Japan Meteorological Agency currently issues forecasts for the following seven days, but an expert report commissioned by the agency suggests that extending this period is not only possible but also beneficial. JMA official Masayuki Kyoda explained that the ability to gather resources for events like snow removal, which can take up to two weeks, would be greatly enhanced with longer forecasts.

Kyoda, who analyzes abnormal weather for the JMA, emphasized that recent years have seen a rise in extreme weather, a trend directly linked to global warming. The agency hopes to implement these changes by 2030.