Cherry blossom viewing is an essential part of life for Japanese people. In Tokyo, the average maximum temperature during the cherry blossom season from late March to early April is 14-17°C. If the maximum temperature during this period is high, the period until full bloom will be shorter. Conversely, if the temperature is lower, the period until full bloom will be longer. High temperatures shorten the cherry blossom viewing period and reduce sales. Best-selling items during cherry blossom viewing in cold weather include oden, fried foods, shochu, sake, and meat buns and bean buns. Conversely, during warm weather, items include grilled meat, sushi, beer, low-malt beer, pickles, and soft drinks. If you’re successful, you can make a lot of money in a short period of time. The tricky part here is the weather forecast. Spring weather forecasts are said to be less accurate. Of course, if your predictions are correct, you can make more profit than usual in a short period of time.
In 2019, the Japan Meteorological Agency conducted a survey of 2,059 domestic companies. According to this survey, over 60% of companies believe their business is affected by weather. However, only 10% responded that they actually collect, analyze, and utilize weather data. Where problems exist, there are organizations that can offer solutions. The Japan Meteorological Agency established the Weather Business Promotion Consortium (WXBC) in 2017 with the aim of creating new businesses. Furthermore, in 2021, WXBC established a certification system for “weather data analysts.” “Weather Day Analysts” are individuals who can utilize weather information in the business world. Applications for this training course have come from consulting firms and the construction industry. Approximately 140 people have completed the course to date and are now active in various fields.
It’s well-known that some people suddenly complain of headaches or stomach aches before thunder. If thunder is forecast for that day, it’s a good idea to take a headache medicine first. In the case of asthma, for example, a drop of 3 degrees from a minimum temperature of 15 degrees within five hours often triggers an attack. The impact of weather on the human body varies greatly from person to person. However, when certain conditions are met, illnesses often develop. Beyond the individual, collective preparations are necessary. Global warming makes it difficult to grow crops that do not tolerate high temperatures. Climate change can lead to the emergence of previously unseen pests and diseases. Rising air and sea temperatures increase the number of pests and diseases, which could reduce grain production and lead to food shortages. It appears that companies must improve their skills in processing and utilizing meteorological information, such as highly accurate long-term forecasts and information on specific locations.
