Last updated: January 18, 2025
Miyagi, Japan, experiences a Cfa climate, characterized by humid subtropical conditions that lead to diverse seasonal variations. The minimum temperature can plunge to -15°C (5°F) in January, while the average yearly temperature hovers around a mild 13°C (55°F). In contrast, the summer months can see a maximum temperature spike to a sweltering 36°C (97°F) in August. This climatic variability not only shapes the region's ecosystems but also influences the lifestyle and agricultural practices of its inhabitants.
Miyagi, Japan, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns that reflect its humid subtropical climate. Winter months, particularly January and February, bring cold conditions with minimums reaching as low as -15°C (5°F) and average temperatures lingering around 2°C (35°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, with March and April seeing averages climb to 6°C (43°F) and 10°C (50°F), respectively, while maximums can reach 27°C (81°F) by late April. The transition into summer is marked by a notable increase, peaking in July and August, when temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) and can soar to 36°C (97°F). As autumn sets in, there is a gradual cooling, with November and December experiencing lower averages of 10°C (50°F) and 4°C (40°F), along with minimums dropping back down to -8°C (18°F). This pattern highlights the region's significant temperature fluctuations across the seasons, influencing both the environment and local lifestyles.
Sendai and Kawasaki share similar temperature ranges, both experiencing a minimum of -10°C (14°F) in January and a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in August (monthly temperatures in Sendai and monthly temperatures in Kawasaki). In contrast, Matsushima has slightly milder winters, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) in February, but it also reaches a maximum temperature of 32°C (89°F) in July (monthly temperatures in Matsushima).
Miyagi, Japan, experiences varied precipitation patterns throughout the year, with notable spikes during the summer months. January and February see relatively low rainfall, measuring 55 mm (2.2 in) and 47 mm (1.9 in), respectively, typically occurring over about 9 to 10 days. As spring unfolds, March and April witness a significant increase, with precipitation levels reaching 110 mm (4.3 in) each month, indicative of the transitional weather patterns. May maintains high totals at 108 mm (4.2 in), suggesting the onset of the wetter season as temperatures rise.
The peak of the precipitation occurs in the summer, particularly in July, when the region receives a substantial 218 mm (8.6 in) of rain over approximately 18 days, followed closely by August with 199 mm (7.8 in). Fall begins with a decrease in rainfall, with September totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) and October experiencing another notable rise at 209 mm (8.2 in). In contrast, the winter months of November and December see a sharp drop in rainfall, with only 40 mm (1.6 in) and 62 mm (2.4 in), respectively. This seasonal variability highlights the influences of both the climate zone and local geographical factors on Miyagi's weather patterns.
Miyagi, Japan, exhibits a clear seasonal trend in sunshine duration, with a gradual increase from winter to summer months. January starts the year with 169 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 223 hours in February and reaching 259 hours in March. The transition into spring brings longer days, peaking in May with a remarkable 292 hours of sunshine. This period marks the zenith of sunlight for the year, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and blooming landscapes.
As summer approaches, sunshine duration slightly decreases to 251 hours in July and 268 hours in August, indicating that while temperatures soar, some cloud cover may develop. The fall months maintain a comparatively high level of sunshine, particularly September with 245 hours, before tapering off in October (210 hours). November and December experience a gentle decline, finishing the year with 220 and 206 hours, respectively. This overall pattern not only accentuates the contrast between the sun-soaked summer and cooler months but also emphasizes Miyagi's appealing climate for both residents and visitors during the sunniest times of the year.
In Miyagi, Japan, the UV Index exhibits distinct seasonal variations, typically peaking during the summer months and reaching extreme levels. Starting with a moderate UV Index of 3 in January and December, and slightly higher at 5 in February, the risk of harmful UV exposure remains manageable. However, as spring arrives, the UV Index sharply increases, peaking at 9 in April and 10 in May, categorizing it as "very high." By June through August, residents experience extreme levels of UV radiation, maintaining an index of 11, which significantly reduces safe exposure time to just 10 minutes without protection.
As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index begins to decline, with September witnessing a drop to 9, but still classified as "very high." October and November see a further reduction to 6 and 4, respectively, indicating a return to high and moderate exposures as the colder months approach. Throughout the year, the changing UV Index highlights the importance of sun protection measures, particularly during the late spring and summer, when the risk of skin damage is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
In Miyagi, Japan, daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the natural changes in seasons. January and December each provide about 9 hours of daylight, with February seeing a modest increase to 10 hours. As spring approaches, the amount of daylight gradually rises, reaching 11 hours in March and peaking to 13 hours in April. The month of May marks the transition to summer with 14 hours of daylight, where longer days create opportunities for more outdoor activities and festivities.
During the summer months of June through July, daylight remains consistent at 14 hours, allowing for extended periods of sunlight and late evening activities. As August transitions into fall, daylight begins to decrease to 13 hours, followed by a decline to 12 hours in September. The hours of daylight continue to diminish, dropping back to 11 hours in October and reverting to 10 hours in November. This cyclical pattern illustrates the strong seasonal influence on daylight in Miyagi, encouraging various cultural and agricultural practices that align with the changing light availability.
Ishinomaki, Japan experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with winter temperatures ranging from -5°C to 12°C (22°F to 54°F) in January and February, while summer sees highs of 32°C (90°F) in July and August. Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly in July with 177 mm (7.0 in), and again in October with 192 mm (7.6 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in May when it averages 287 hours. The transition between seasons brings moderate weather, making it a dynamic climate for residents and visitors alike. For more details, visit Ishinomaki climate.
Kawasaki, Japan experiences a distinctly varied climate throughout the year, with January and February being the coldest months, featuring minimum temperatures around -10°C (14°F). As spring progresses into summer, temperatures rise significantly, peaking in July and August at maximums of 35°C (95°F). The city also sees considerable rainfall, particularly in the summer months of July and August, which receive over 200 mm of precipitation. Sunshine hours are relatively abundant, reaching a peak of 292 hours in May, contributing to the lush greenery seen in the warmer months. For more detailed information, visit Kawasaki climate.
Kesennuma, Japan experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C to a maximum of 10°C, while July peaks at 32°C. The region receives significant precipitation, particularly in the summer months, with July and August averaging around 174 mm and 178 mm respectively. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with May boasting the highest at 299 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kesennuma climate.
Matsushima, Japan experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -5°C to 13°C, while July and August peak at 32°C. Precipitation is highest in the summer months, particularly in July (227 mm) and October (229 mm), contributing to a lush environment. The area enjoys ample sunshine, especially in May with 292 hours, enhancing the beauty of its renowned landscapes. For more details, visit Matsushima climate.
Sendai, Japan, experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averages around 0°C (33°F) and peaks in July and August reaching up to 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is most significant during the summer months, particularly in July, which sees around 232 mm (9.1 in) of rainfall. The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May with 292 hours, although winters can be cloudy. Overall, Sendai's climate features cold winters and warm, humid summers, making seasonal attire essential for locals and visitors alike. For more detailed information, visit Sendai climate.
Shiogama, Japan experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -5°C to 13°C and an average of 3°C, while summers are warm, peaking in July and August around 32°C. The region receives considerable precipitation, especially in July, which sees about 227 mm of rainfall. Sunshine hours are abundant in the spring and early summer, reaching up to 292 hours in May. For more detailed climate information, visit Shiogama climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Miyagi, Japan, is defined by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences cold winters and warm summers, with notable fluctuations in weather patterns that significantly impact local life and agriculture. As daylight hours increase in the spring and peak in summer, residents enjoy longer periods of sunlight, although they must remain mindful of the rising UV Index during these months. Conversely, the transition to shorter days in fall and winter brings lower temperatures and varying precipitation levels, highlighting the rich climatic diversity of Miyagi. Understanding these patterns not only enhances appreciation for the region's natural environment but also informs residents and visitors on how to best navigate and enjoy all that Miyagi has to offer throughout the year.