Iida Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Japan
Summer
Summer in Iida, Japan is characterized by hot and humid weather. The average temperature during the summer months (June, July, and August) is around 25°C (77°F), with high temperatures often reaching into the 30s (°C) (86°F). The humidity levels are also high, making the air feel muggy and uncomfortable. There is a significant amount of rainfall during the summer months, with an average of 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain falling each month. The rain is often accompanied by thunderstorms, which can be quite intense.
Winter
Winter in Iida, Japan is cold and snowy. The average temperature during the winter months (December, January, and February) is around 0°C (32°F), with low temperatures often dropping below freezing. The city receives an average of 100 cm (39 in) of snow each year, which can make it difficult to get around. The snow can also cause power outages and other disruptions. The wind can be quite strong during the winter months, making the cold feel even more bitter.
Seasonal Variations
Iida, Japan, experiences significant seasonal variations in average temperature. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). In July and August, the hottest months, temperatures often reach the high 20s or low 30s Celsius (mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit). Winters, on the other hand, are cold and snowy, with average temperatures hovering around 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). In January, the coldest month, temperatures can dip below -5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit).
Yearly Averages
Overall, the average temperature in Iida over the course of a year is approximately 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit). The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures of 26.5 degrees Celsius (79.7 degrees Fahrenheit) and 25.5 degrees Celsius (77.9 degrees Fahrenheit), respectively. The coldest months are January and February, with average temperatures of 1.5 degrees Celsius (34.7 degrees Fahrenheit) and 2.5 degrees Celsius (36.5 degrees Fahrenheit), respectively.
Cloud Types in Iida, Japan
Iida, Japan, experiences a range of cloud cover throughout the year. Common cloud types include cirrus, cumulus, and stratus clouds. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that are composed of ice crystals. They are usually found at high altitudes and are often associated with fair weather. Cumulus clouds are puffy, white clouds that are typically found at low altitudes. They can indicate fair or unstable weather conditions, depending on their appearance and development. Stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover the entire sky. They often produce drizzle or light rain and are associated with overcast and gloomy weather.
Seasonal Cloud Cover
The cloud cover in Iida, Japan, varies seasonally. During the winter months, the sky is often clear or partly cloudy, with occasional periods of overcast conditions. In the spring, cloud cover increases, and the region experiences more frequent periods of rain. Summer is the wettest season in Iida, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Cloud cover is typically at its peak during this season. In autumn, cloud cover decreases, and the sky becomes clearer. The region experiences relatively dry and sunny conditions during this time of year.
Annual Precipitation
Iida, Japan experiences abundant precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of 2,262 millimeters (89.1 inches). The precipitation is distributed fairly evenly across the year, although there are slight variations in intensity. The spring months (March to May) tend to have the highest precipitation, with an average of 225 millimeters (8.9 inches) per month. During this time, Iida experiences frequent rainfall due to the passage of low-pressure systems and the influence of the warm Kuroshio Current.
Seasonal Patterns
In summer (June to August), precipitation decreases slightly, with an average of 170 to 180 millimeters (6.7 to 7.1 inches) per month. During this time, the rainfall is often associated with thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The autumn months (September to November) bring a gradual increase in precipitation, with an average of 200 to 210 millimeters (7.9 to 8.3 inches) per month. This increase is attributed to the formation of extratropical cyclones and the passage of cold fronts. Winter (December to February) is generally the driest season, with an average of 130 to 150 millimeters (5.1 to 5.9 inches) of precipitation per month. However, winter precipitation can vary significantly, depending on the presence of cold fronts and the strength of the winter monsoon.
General Rainfall Patterns
Iida, Japan, experiences significant rainfall throughout the year. Annual precipitation averages around 1,500 millimeters (59 inches), distributed relatively evenly across the months. The summer months, from June to August, typically receive the highest rainfall, often accompanied by heavy thunderstorms and occasional typhoons. During these months, the city can experience intense downpours and localized flooding.
Variability and Trends
Over the past few decades, Iida has witnessed a gradual increase in annual rainfall. This trend is consistent with global patterns of climate change, which are causing more frequent and severe extreme weather events. The city has seen an increase in the number of days with heavy rainfall, and the average intensity of rainfall events has also increased. These changes have implications for water management, infrastructure, and overall preparedness for weather-related hazards in Iida.
Seasonal Snowfall
Iida, located in central Japan’s Nagano Prefecture, experiences significant snowfall during the winter months. The average seasonal snowfall is approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet), with most snowfall occurring between December and February. Snowfall can accumulate rapidly, reaching depths of over 50 centimeters (20 inches) within a single day during heavy snowstorms.
Environmental Impacts
The heavy snowfall has a profound impact on the environment, particularly on the local ecosystem. Snow cover provides insulation for plants and animals, protecting them from extreme cold. It also enriches the soil with moisture and nutrients upon melting in the spring. However, the weight of the snow can also damage trees and vegetation, while snowdrifts can obstruct roads and railways. Snow removal efforts are essential for maintaining transportation and preventing accidents.
Sunrise and Sunset Times in Iida, Japan
Iida, Japan, experiences a wide range of sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to its location in the Northern Hemisphere. During the summer months, sunrise occurs earliest around 4:30 AM, while sunset lasts until approximately 7:30 PM. This provides ample daylight hours for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In contrast, during the winter months, sunrise can occur as late as 6:30 AM, and sunset can occur as early as 4:30 PM. This reduced daylight can impact daily routines and may require adjustments to outdoor activities.
Seasonal Variations in Daylight Hours
The duration of daylight in Iida, Japan, varies significantly with the changing seasons. In the summer, the city enjoys approximately 15 hours of daylight, allowing for extended daylight activities and warm evenings. During the spring and autumn, daylight hours decrease to around 12 hours, providing a more balanced mix of daylight and darkness. In the winter months, daylight hours are at their shortest, with only about 9 hours of sunlight each day. This reduced daylight can impact mood and energy levels and may require adjustments to sleep patterns and daily routines.
Current Moon Phase in Iida, Japan
The current Moon phase in Iida, Japan today, Friday, March 10, 2023, is a Waning Gibbous Moon, illuminated at 97.4%. The Moon is currently in the constellation of Libra, and is rising at 17:47 and setting at 08:27.
Moonrise and Moonset Times in Iida, Japan
The Moonrise and Moonset times in Iida, Japan for today, Friday, March 10, 2023, are as follows:
- Moonrise: 17:47
- Moonset: 08:27
The Moon will be highest in the sky at 01:08, when it will be at an altitude of 74.2 degrees.
Average Humidity Levels
Iida, Japan experiences moderate to high humidity levels throughout the year, with an average annual relative humidity of approximately 70%. The highest humidity levels are typically observed during summer, when they can reach up to 80%. During this season, warm, moist air from the Pacific Ocean combines with relatively high temperatures to create a muggy and humid climate. In contrast, winter brings lower humidity levels, averaging around 60%. This is due to the colder temperatures, which reduce the amount of moisture in the air.
Seasonal Variations
The humidity levels in Iida exhibit significant seasonal variations. Spring and autumn are characterized by relatively moderate humidity levels, with average relative humidity ranging from 65% to 75%. During these seasons, Iida experiences a gradual increase in humidity levels as temperatures rise in spring and decrease in autumn. Summer is the most humid season, with a peak relative humidity of 80% or higher in August. This humidity is accompanied by warm and often oppressive temperatures, making outdoor activities uncomfortable for some individuals. Winter, on the other hand, brings drier conditions, with average relative humidity dropping below 60%. The low humidity levels combined with colder temperatures can contribute to dry skin and respiratory irritation for some residents.
Wind Speed and Patterns
Iida, Japan, experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year, with average speeds ranging from 1.5 to 3 meters per second (5 to 11 kilometers per hour). During the winter months (December to February), winds are generally light and variable in direction. In the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), winds typically increase slightly in speed and become more easterly or westerly. The summer months (June to August) bring the highest wind speeds, with gusts exceeding 5 meters per second (18 kilometers per hour) occurring on occasion. These summer winds are often associated with the passage of tropical cyclones or the formation of local thunderstorms.
Seasonal Wind Patterns
Iida’s wind patterns are influenced by its location on the west coast of Japan and the surrounding topography. During the winter, the prevailing wind direction is from the west or northwest, bringing cold, dry air from the Asian continent. In the spring, winds shift to a more easterly direction as the Pacific High, a large area of high atmospheric pressure, strengthens over the North Pacific Ocean. This easterly wind pattern continues through the summer, bringing warm, humid air to Iida. In the fall, the wind direction gradually shifts back to the west or northwest as the Pacific High weakens and the Asian continent becomes colder.
Spring (April-May):
Spring is an enchanting time to visit Iida, with cherry blossoms painting the city in vibrant hues of pink. The mild temperatures and clear skies create ideal conditions for exploring the city’s parks and gardens, such as the Yaezaki Castle Ruins Park, which boasts over 800 cherry trees. Additionally, the annual Iida Cherry Blossom Festival in April showcases an array of cultural performances and food stalls, immersing visitors in the lively atmosphere.
Autumn (October-November):
As the leaves transform into a breathtaking tapestry of golds, oranges, and reds, autumn offers a visually stunning spectacle in Iida. The city’s many hiking trails and mountain viewpoints provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. One of the most popular hiking spots is Mount Senjōgahara, which offers a breathtaking view of the iconic Southern Alps. The Iida Autumn Leaves Festival, held in October, celebrates the season’s beauty with a parade, live music, and traditional performances.
Sunlight Potential and Solar Power Generation
Iida City, located in the central region of Nagano Prefecture, enjoys favorable solar conditions with an average daily solar radiation of approximately 4.5 kWh/m². This abundant sunlight has prompted the installation of numerous solar power systems in the area. The city’s total installed solar capacity exceeds 200 MW, making it a significant hub for renewable energy generation in the region.
Government Initiatives and Community Involvement
The Iida City government has actively promoted solar energy development through various initiatives. These include subsidies and incentives for solar installations, as well as support for community-based solar projects. Additionally, the city has established a unique “Solar Energy Charter” that encourages residents and businesses to adopt solar energy. This comprehensive approach has fostered a strong sense of community involvement in the transition towards sustainable energy sources.
Hills
Iida is a city located in a mountainous region of central Japan. The city is surrounded by several hills, including Mount Iida, which is the highest point in the city. The hills provide a scenic backdrop to the city and offer opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Rivers
Iida is also home to several rivers, including the Iida River and the Tenryū River. The rivers provide a source of water for the city and its surrounding areas. They also offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.
Nearest Airport in Iida, Japan
The closest airport to Iida, Japan, is Matsumoto Airport (MMJ), located approximately 40 kilometers (24 miles) southwest of the city. MMJ is a regional airport served by All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL), with direct flights to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND). From HND, travelers can connect to destinations around Japan and internationally.
Another option is Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), which is approximately 120 kilometers (74 miles) south of Iida. NGO is a major airport with direct flights to both domestic and international destinations. However, the travel time between NGO and Iida is longer than from MMJ. Travelers flying into NGO can take the Meitetsu train or express bus to Nagoya Station and then transfer to the JR Tokaido Main Line for Iida.
History and Culture of Iida
Iida has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, when it served as a post town on the Nakasendo highway connecting Edo (present-day Tokyo) to Kyoto. During this time, the town flourished as a center for commerce and was known for its production of textiles and lacquerware. Iida’s historical legacy is evident in its well-preserved samurai district, which features traditional wooden houses and cobblestone streets. The town is also home to several historical temples and shrines, such as Zojoji Temple, which houses a 17th-century wooden statue of Buddha.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Iida is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with rugged mountains and pristine rivers providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The Tenryu-kyokoku National Park, located just outside the city, offers breathtaking scenery and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and kayaking. The park is home to the Tenryu Gorge, a deep and picturesque canyon carved by the Tenryu River. Within Iida itself, the Inagawa River flows through the city, offering scenic walking and cycling paths along its banks. The city is also known for its hot springs, which offer a relaxing respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.