TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Japan’s famed Mount Fuji opened its climbing season on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, marking the first day with a devastating toll: three climbers were discovered unconscious near the crater, only to be confirmed dead the following day, as reported by the Japan Times citing the Shizuoka Prefecture police department.
Among the victims was a 53-year-old male company worker from Hino, Tokyo, who had gone missing after scaling the mountain on Friday. This tragic event marks the highest number of fatalities in the past five climbing seasons, which typically saw between zero to two casualties.
Authorities have urged climbers to meticulously assess weather conditions and their physical readiness before embarking on the ascent.
Fatal Incidents Highlight Risks
The Shizuoka prefectural police responded to an emergency call around 2:05 p.m. Wednesday reporting a climber had fallen near the summit’s Kengamine peak. Tragically, an elderly man was found outside the designated path and pronounced dead. The circumstances surrounding his fall are currently under investigation.
Later that evening, a 77-year-old man from Komae, Tokyo, was discovered unconscious on the Gotemba Lane, succumbing to his injuries the following day. Additionally, another elderly man found on the Fujinomiya Line Thursday morning also passed away, with investigations ongoing into the causes of their deaths.
Rescue Amid Harsh Conditions
In addition to the fatalities, a 29-year-old woman from Komae was rescued Wednesday suffering from severe hypothermia. Reports from a mountain inn on the Subashiri Pass indicated adverse weather conditions with rain, wind, and intermittent fog during the incident.
“Mount Fuji demands respect as a challenging climb rather than a simple hike, especially for inexperienced climbers,” emphasized the inn owner.
Weather Challenges and Safety Measures
Authorities attributed the incidents partly to the adverse weather conditions near the summit, underscoring the necessity for climbers to equip themselves with appropriate gear such as warm clothing, sturdy climbing shoes, flashlights, and charged cell phones to mitigate risks of accidents or getting lost.
They advised against nighttime climbs in inclement weather due to heightened hazards and prolonged rescue times in case of emergencies.
“It’s crucial for visitors to Mount Fuji to monitor weather forecasts diligently and make informed decisions about their climbs,” emphasized a police officer.
“Only embark on the ascent under favorable conditions,” echoed Shunji Takekawa, director of the Japan Mountain Guides Association, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of Mount Fuji’s weather and its potential dangers.
As July progresses, the mountain experiences stormy weather due to the lingering rainy season, with temperatures dropping and winds intensifying at higher altitudes.
“Mount Fuji’s allure is undeniable, but climbers must always respect its challenges and uncertainties,” concluded Takekawa.