On February 15, Japan is set to experience unseasonably warm temperatures across many areas, with forecasts indicating highs of 20 degrees Celsius in Kochi, 18 degrees in Sendai and Tokyo, 17 degrees in Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka, and 15 degrees in Niigata. This rise in temperature resembles early spring conditions, surprising many in the nation still recovering from winter's chill.

Despite the pleasant temperatures, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for regions with heavy snowfall, as the warming climate could lead to melting snow. This melting increases the risk of avalanches and falling snow from roofs, which poses a significant safety hazard for residents. The agency has urged citizens to exercise caution, particularly in areas where snow has accumulated significantly over the winter months.

The unusual warmth also signals the possible onset of pollen season, raising concerns for many suffering from pollen allergies due to last year’s extreme heat leading to increased growth of male flowers. Experts warn that the combined effects of climate change and changing weather patterns could lead to more frequent extreme weather events in the future, altering seasonal norms and affecting local ecosystems in Japan.