Higashi-Hiroshima Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Japan

Summer in Higashi-Hiroshima

Summer in Higashi-Hiroshima is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 33°C (91°F). The hottest months are July and August, when temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is frequent during the summer months, with an average of 15 to 20 days of rain per month. The high humidity levels can make it uncomfortable to be outdoors for extended periods of time.

Winter in Higashi-Hiroshima

Winter in Higashi-Hiroshima is mild compared to other parts of Japan. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 10°C (50°F), with occasional snowfall. The coldest months are January and February, when temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F). Snowfall is generally light, and the snow cover usually melts within a few days.

Monthly Average Temperatures

Higashi-Hiroshima’s average monthly temperatures vary significantly throughout the year. January and February are the coldest months with average temperatures hovering around 2-3 degrees Celsius (35-37 Fahrenheit). In contrast, August is the warmest month with an average temperature of approximately 28 degrees Celsius (82 Fahrenheit). The temperatures begin to rise in March and gradually increase until reaching their peak in August. They start declining again in September and continue to decrease until reaching the lowest point in January.

Seasonal Variations

The city experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring (March-May) offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 9-20 degrees Celsius (48-68 Fahrenheit). Summer (June-August) is characterized by hot, humid conditions and occasional thunderstorms, with temperatures frequently reaching above 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). Autumn (September-November) brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, with average temperatures around 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 Fahrenheit). Winter (December-February) is cold and dry, with occasional snowfall.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Higashi-Hiroshima experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and cool, dry winters. Cloud cover is generally abundant throughout the year, with an average of 60-70% sky cover. During the summer monsoon season (June-July), cloud cover is persistent, leading to frequent showers and thunderstorms. In the winter, cloud cover is more variable, with occasional clear skies breaking through the overcast conditions.

Cloud Types and Visibility

The most common cloud type in Higashi-Hiroshima is stratus, which appears as a uniform, gray layer covering the entire sky. Cumulus clouds, which are puffy and white, are also frequent, especially during the summer. Cirrus clouds, which are thin, wispy clouds, are less common but can be observed on clear days. Visibility is generally good in Higashi-Hiroshima, except during periods of heavy rain or fog, which can occur in the winter. The annual average visibility is around 10 kilometers (6 miles).

Seasonal Precipitation Trends

Precipitation in Higashi-Hiroshima exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with significant variations throughout the year. The driest period typically occurs from December to February, when the average monthly precipitation falls below 50 mm. During these winter months, the region experiences relatively low humidity and limited rainfall due to the prevailing northwesterly winds. In contrast, the wettest season spans from June to August, when the influence of the summer monsoon brings copious rainfall. During this time, the average monthly precipitation often exceeds 200 mm, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours.

Annual Precipitation Variability

Annual precipitation in Higashi-Hiroshima exhibits considerable variability from year to year. The region’s proximity to the coast and its location within a temperate climate zone result in a range of weather patterns that can lead to significant fluctuations in rainfall. In some years, the region experiences extended periods of drought, while in others, it is subjected to torrential rainfall and flooding. The long-term average annual precipitation for the city is approximately 1,300 mm, but actual rainfall can vary considerably around this mean value. This variability highlights the importance of water management and infrastructure planning to cope with both drought and flood events in the region.

Annual Rainfall

Higashi-Hiroshima experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,420 millimeters (56 inches). The distribution of rainfall is relatively even throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and July, receiving around 200 millimeters (8 inches) each. The driest months are December and February, with an average of 50 millimeters (2 inches) of rainfall each.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

During the summer months, Higashi-Hiroshima is affected by the East Asian monsoon, which brings warm and humid air from the Pacific Ocean. This results in frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. In contrast, during the winter months, the city is influenced by the cold and dry air from Siberia, which brings clear skies and occasional snow showers. As a result, the winter months tend to receive lower amounts of precipitation compared to the summer months.

Snowfall Patterns

Higashi-Hiroshima, located in the southern part of Japan’s Hiroshima Prefecture, experiences relatively low snowfall compared to other regions of the country. During the winter months (December-February), the average monthly snowfall ranges from 0 to 10 centimeters. Snowfall is most common in January, with an average of 5 centimeters. While snowstorms are rare, they can occur sporadically, bringing heavier snowfall.

Impacts of Snowfall

The occasional snowfall in Higashi-Hiroshima can have both positive and negative impacts on the city. On the one hand, light snow can create a beautiful winter wonderland, attracting tourists and providing opportunities for snow-related activities such as sledding and snowman building. However, heavier snowfall can disrupt daily life, causing traffic delays, school closures, and power outages. Nevertheless, the relatively low frequency and intensity of snowfall in Higashi-Hiroshima minimize these disruptions compared to regions with more significant snowfall.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

The sun in Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan, follows a predictable cycle of rising and setting. The exact timings vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and rotation. Generally, the sun rises between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM local time during the summer months (July-August) and between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM during the winter months (December-January). Sunset occurs between 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM during the summer months and between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM during the winter months.

Seasonal Variation in Sunlight Hours

The number of daylight hours in Higashi-Hiroshima varies significantly throughout the year. During the summer months, the city enjoys long days with up to 15 hours of sunlight. This is due to the Earth’s tilt towards the sun during the Northern Hemisphere summer. Conversely, during the winter months, the city experiences shorter days with only around 9 hours of sunlight. This is because the Earth’s tilt away from the sun during the Northern Hemisphere winter results in less direct sunlight reaching Higashi-Hiroshima.

Moonrise and Moonset in Higashi-Hiroshima

The moon’s daily appearance in Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan, is a celestial spectacle that varies with the time of year. The exact timing of moonrise and moonset depends on the phase of the moon, as well as the city’s geographic location. During the summer months, moonrise occurs earlier in the evening, and moonset follows later at night. Conversely, in the winter, the moon rises and sets later, providing shorter periods of visible moon illumination.

One of the most captivating aspects of moonrise and moonset in Higashi-Hiroshima is the interplay between the moon’s appearance and the city’s surroundings. The moon’s golden glow often contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the night sky, especially when it emerges from behind the distant mountains. As the moon ascends higher in the sky, its light bathes the city in an ethereal glow, casting intricate shadows on buildings and streets below.

Seasonal Variations and Extremes

Higashi-Hiroshima, located in southwest Japan, experiences significant humidity variations throughout the year. The humid subtropical climate of the region is primarily influenced by the East Asian monsoon system. During the warm and rainy summer months, from June to September, humidity levels soar. The average relative humidity during this period ranges between 75% and 85%, often reaching uncomfortable levels. The heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, can rise to over 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) during the peak of summer.

In contrast, humidity levels drop considerably during the cooler winter months, from December to February. The average relative humidity during this period ranges between 55% and 65%, with occasional days of lower humidity. The dry and cold winter air results in less oppressive conditions compared to the humid summer months. However, occasional periods of rain and snow can bring temporary increases in humidity.

Wind Patterns and Characteristics

Higashi-Hiroshima, located in southwestern Japan, experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. The city is influenced by both oceanic and continental air masses, resulting in moderate winds throughout the year. During the winter months (December to February), winds tend to be weak from the northwest, bringing cold and dry air from the Asian continent. In the spring (March to May), winds gradually shift to the southeast as the influence of the Pacific Ocean increases, resulting in warmer and more humid air. Summer (June to August) witnesses the strongest winds of the year, primarily from the south and southwest. These winds bring ample moisture from the ocean, leading to frequent showers and thunderstorms.

Seasonal Impacts of Wind

The prevailing wind patterns in Higashi-Hiroshima have a significant impact on the city’s climate and daily life. The strong winds during summer provide relief from the scorching heat and humidity but can also cause discomfort and disrupt outdoor activities. The city’s coastal location and exposure to southwesterly winds make it susceptible to typhoons, particularly during the late summer and early autumn months (July to October). These powerful storms can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, posing a threat to infrastructure and safety. On the other hand, the moderate winds during other seasons help disperse air pollution and create a more pleasant living environment.

Spring (April-May)

Spring is an ideal time to visit Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The city is awash in vibrant colors as the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, creating a picturesque landscape. This is also the perfect time to explore the many parks and gardens in the area, as well as enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Autumn (October-November)

Autumn is another great time to visit Higashi-Hiroshima. The foliage turns into a brilliant array of red, orange, and yellow hues, creating stunning scenery. The weather is generally mild and sunny, with average temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. This is a great time to visit the many temples and shrines in the area, as well as enjoy traditional festivals and events like the Autumn Leaves Festival.

Solar Energy Potential

Higashi-Hiroshima, a city in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, boasts a favorable solar energy potential. The city experiences an average of 4.7 peak sunshine hours per day, providing ample opportunity for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate electricity. Moreover, Higashi-Hiroshima is located in a relatively flat area, minimizing the presence of obstacles that could block sunlight. This combination of factors makes the city an attractive location for solar energy development.

Solar Energy Initiatives

The city government of Higashi-Hiroshima has recognized the potential of solar energy and has taken steps to promote its adoption. In 2014, the city adopted the “Higashi-Hiroshima Solar Power Town Declaration,” outlining a plan to increase solar power generation and raise awareness about renewable energy. As part of this initiative, the city provides subsidies and other incentives for businesses and residents to install PV systems. Additionally, Higashi-Hiroshima is home to several solar power plants, including the Hiroshima Solar Power Station, one of the largest in Japan.

Mountains and Hills

The topography of Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan is characterized by a mix of mountains and hills. Mount Goyo, with an elevation of 519 meters, is the highest point in the city. Other notable peaks include Mount Ikeda (473 meters) and Mount Kisa (343 meters). These peaks and their surrounding hills create a rugged landscape that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The slopes of these mountains are covered in lush forests, providing a habitat for a variety of flora and fauna.

Rivers and Valleys

Higashi-Hiroshima is drained by several rivers and streams. The Ota River, the largest river in the city, flows through the heart of the urban area. Its tributaries, including the Yasuoka River and the Fuchi River, form a network of waterways that crisscross the city. These rivers and their surrounding valleys provide essential resources and recreational opportunities for local residents. The valleys are often used for agriculture, while the rivers offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports.

Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport (IWK)

Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport is the nearest airport to Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan. It is located in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) southwest of Higashi-Hiroshima. The airport has regular flights to major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to Higashi-Hiroshima. The journey takes around 1 hour by train or 1 hour 30 minutes by bus.

Hiroshima Airport (HIJ)

Hiroshima Airport is another option for reaching Higashi-Hiroshima. It is located in Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Higashi-Hiroshima. The airport has a wider range of domestic and international flights than Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport. However, the journey from Hiroshima Airport to Higashi-Hiroshima takes longer than from Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport. By train, the journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, while by bus it takes around 2 hours.

History and Culture

Higashi-Hiroshima is a city located in the Hiroshima Prefecture of Japan. It was founded in 1974 through the merger of six towns and villages, and has since developed into a significant industrial and research hub. The city is home to the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI), which conducts research on nuclear energy and particle physics. Higashi-Hiroshima also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites and cultural attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which commemorate the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945.

Economy and Infrastructure

Higashi-Hiroshima’s economy is primarily driven by manufacturing, particularly the automotive industry. The city is home to several major manufacturing facilities, including those of Mazda Motor Corporation and Mitsubishi Electric. The city also has a strong research and development sector, with several universities and research institutions located within its borders. Higashi-Hiroshima is well-connected by transportation, with access to the Shinkansen high-speed rail network and several airports. The city is also served by a comprehensive network of public transportation, including buses and trains.