Weather in Shanghai

Shanghai weather is generally mild and moist, with four distinct seasons - a pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn and an overcast cold winter. The region's location at the estuary of the Yangtze River to the East China Sea makes it so wet that it rains for about one third of the year.

The hottest time here comes in July and August, with more than 10 days at temperatures above 35 C (95 F). The coldest time is from the late January to early February. The spring from March to May is recommended as the best time to pay a visit.

Spring

Weather: Spring is from March to May. Temperatures climb from cool to warm. It is a good time for traveling in Shanghai. The weather feels comfortable with the average temperature at around 15 °C (59 °F).

Precipitation: There is moderate rainfall.

Clothing: Sweaters and coats are suitable for this season, but prepare lighter clothes for warmer days.

Summer

Weather: Summer is long: from June to September. It is very hot and wet. July and August are the hottest two months. The highest temperature in summer can sometimes reach up to 40 °C (104 °F). It rains on 11–14 days/month. Typhoons and sudden heavy rains are common.

Clothing: It is recommended that you carry an umbrella if rainfall seems likely. Wear summer clothes such as skirts, shorts and T-shirts. Wearing sunglasses and using sunscreen is recommended for those susceptible to burning.

Autumn

Weather: Autumn is from October to November. The weather is generally sunny and drier. Autumn is the season with sharp and frequent temperature changes.

Clothing: Long-sleeve T-shirts and then sweaters or coats are needed as the season progresses.

Winter

Weather: Winter is from December to February of the next year. Winter in Shanghai is characterized by bitingly cold northerlies and dryness.

Temperatures: The coldest period is from late January until early February; usually during the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival. Nighttime temperatures often drop well below zero, but it rarely snows. The low temperatures are not as low as in cities in North China, such as Beijing and Xi'an, but Shanghai's winter shares their character because of the prevailing north wind.

The average low and high temperatures in December are 2 °C (35 °F) and 11 °C (51 °F); in January, 0 °C (32 °F) and 7 °C (45 °F); and in February, 1 °C (34 °F) and 8 °C (47 °F).

Clothing: Dress warmly.