The climate of Kunming
Kunming,
China, located in the temperate highland tropical climate zone, conforms to the Köppen climate classification of Cwb, signifying an area displaying a substantial proportion of its annual precipitation during the hot, humid summer months and dry winters. This distinct weather pattern defines the city's annual weather trends with significant humidity levels emerging alongside a broad range of temperatures.
Spanning from the lowest temperature of 2.3°C (36.1°F) to the highest of 24.4°C (75.9°F), the city experiences progressively varying degrees of heat throughout the year. From the cooler months ushering in temperatures just above freezing to the warmer summer months reaching the mid-20s, each month brings a distinct difference in temperature. On the same note, humidity undergoes transformations as well, starting at 58% and climbing up to a peak of 83% throughout the year.
One particularly noteworthy feature of Kunming's weather is its diverse rainfall patterns. Basking in a low rainfall of 11mm (0.43") during drier months, the city sees rainfall figures skyrocket to a significant 202mm (7.95") during its wettest months. Coupling this with daylight hours ranging from 10.6 to 13.7 hours and sunshine duration wavering between 4 to 8.2 hours, Kunming consistently offers varied weather conditions.
The best time to visit Kunming
For visitors aiming to experience the ideal climate in
Kunming, the choice largely depends on their preferences for temperatures, humidity, and rainfall. Arguably, the best time to visit this city can be from
March to
May. During this period, temperatures are welcomingly warm, maintaining a range from 15.4°C (59.7°F) to 24.4°C (75.9°F). Coupling this with tolerable humidity levels between 58% and 68%, these months offer comfortable conditions ripe for exploration.
Moreover, the lower rainfall figures during this period, specifically 16mm (0.63") to 97mm (3.82"), compared to the heightened precipitation of the summer months, ensure minimal interruptions for outdoor activities. With an impressive average of 8.2 hours of sunshine and UV index of 11 to 12, this period allows for pleasant sightseeing opportunities without being overly severe.
The worst time to visit Kunming
Potentially, the least favorable time for a visit to
Kunming could be the rainy season, which primes from
June to
August. These months bring substantial rainfall, peaking at 180.9 to 204mm (8.03"), which could potentially hinder plans for outdoor pursuits or sightseeing. A simultaneous surge in humidity, reaching up to 83%, adds to the uncomfortable conditions during these months.
Despite longer daylight hours, stretching from 13.5 to 13.7, the sunshine duration is minimal, with just 4 to 4.5 sunshine hours recorded. Even as temperatures could be favorable, hovering around a high of 24°C (75.2°F) to 24.1°C (75.4°F), the notably lower sunshine duration coupled with extreme rainfall and humidity levels can make this period a little challenging for visitors.
Spring weather in Kunming
The spring in
Kunming, from
March to
May, presents an agreeable climate. Temperatures vary from a comfortable 15.4°C (59.7°F) to a warm 24.4°C (75.9°F), providing conducive conditions for outdoor engagements. However, increasing rainfall, from 16mm (0.63") to 97mm (3.82"), becomes apparent as the season progresses, leading to some damp days.
The spring months offer notable daylight ranging from 12 to 13.3 hours and an impressive average of 8.2 hours of sunshine per day. A consistently high UV index, maxing at 12, suggests the necessity of adequate sun protection during this period. Humidity levels also escalate from a reasonable 58% to 68%.
Summer weather in Kunming
From
June to
August,
Kunming experiences its summer season. Although temperatures maintain at a constant 24°C (75.2°F) to 24.1°C (75.4°F), the overwhelming humidity levels between 78% and 83% can result in a sticky, uncomfortable feel. The period is also characterized by substantial rainfall, escalating from 181mm (7.13") to a high of 204mm (8.03"), making it the wettest span of the year.
The season offers the longest daylight hours, peaking from 13.5 to 13.7 hours, yet lacks in the amount of sunshine, with only 4 to 4.5 hours per day. This, matched with a consistently high UV index of 12, might require careful preparation before venturing out.
Autumn weather in Kunming
Autumn, extending from
September to
November, sees the gradual transition from heavy monsoonal influence to drier climates. Rainfall begins to reduce, moving from 119mm (4.69") to a significantly lower 42mm (1.65"), making outdoor excursions more feasible. Meanwhile, humidity levels alleviate from 82% to a more comfortable 77%.
The temperatures during this period bring comfort, with high points wavering between 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 17.5°C (63.5°F). Amidst daylight hours steadily decreasing from 12.3 to 10.9, sunshine durations remain fairly constant, amounting to around 4.6 to 5.7 hours per day. However, the drop in the UV index to 7 by November signals the onset of decreased sun intensity, indicative of the approaching winter months.
Winter weather in Kunming
Winter in
Kunming, occurring from
December to
February, can yield quite cold temperatures, varying from a low of 2.3°C (36.1°F) to a high of 17.2°C (63°F). The mostly dry conditions owing to a reduction in rainfall, centered between 11mm (0.43") to 16mm (0.63"), coupled with declining humidity levels from 73% to 63%, contribute to crisper days and colder nights.
The daylight hours mildly contract to range between 10.6 to 11.3 hours while average sunshine hours modestly increase to 6.5 to 7.8 hours. Watching the UV index take a dip to a minimal range of 6 to 7, visitors can expect softer sunshine and less intense sunlight during the winter months.
Weather in January
In
Kunming, the fresh aura of a new year starts with moderate temperatures.
January is the coldest month, a sharp contrast from milder seasons, with temperatures oscillating between 2.3°C (36.1°F) and 15.4°C (59.7°F). A significant decrease in daylight hours also ushers in a tranquil and calm atmosphere.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Moving into
February,
Kunming experiences a subtle surge in temperatures, signaling the gradual transition towards spring. The climate remains comfortable, with an increase in both daylight and sunshine hours. Rainfall is similar to that of
January with an average of 16mm (0.63") over 4.6 days.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The moderate temperatures of
March create the perfect scene for the blooming of cherry blossoms in
Kunming. Average temperatures are at a harmonious level, ranging from 6.4°C (43.5°F) to 20.7°C (69.3°F). With longer daylight hours, tourism thrives, offering more time to explore the city and its picturesque spring landscapes.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
With
April's arrival,
Kunming truly feels the embrace of Spring. The increase in temperature to a high of 23.8°C (74.8°F) signifies the advent of warmer days. Outdoor activities flourish, owing to the extended daylight hours. An increase in rainfall brings forth lush and vibrant foliage, enhancing the scenic beauty of the city's parks and gardens.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May paints
Kunming in a palette of warm hues, as the city starts transitioning into the subtropical summer. This is when the city experiences the first striking increase in rainfall with an average of 97mm (3.82"). Extended sunshine and daylight hours create an enchanting ambiance throughout the city.
Weather in May » Weather in June
In
June,
Kunming experiences a significant surge in both temperature and humidity levels. The highest rainfall of the year is recorded in this month, averaging 181mm (7.13"). This shift represents the beginning of the monsoon season, with heavier and more frequent showers.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Signifying the peak of monsoon,
July brings about an unprecedented 202mm (7.95") of rainfall. This heavy rainfall ushers in an authentic tropical feel to the city. Despite the rain, temperatures remain comfortably high, contributing to the overall humidity.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August in
Kunming sustains the monsoon conditions, bringing nearly as much rain as
July at 204mm (8.03"). The humidity peaks, imbuing the city with a moist, tropical atmosphere. Despite high humidity, the nighttime provides relief with relatively cooler temperatures.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the departure of monsoon season in
Kunming, with a decrease in humidity and rainfall, creating a pleasant ambiance. The temperatures, ranging from 14.6°C (58.3°F) at night to 22.7°C (72.9°F) during the day, represent a gradual transition towards autumn.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October,
Kunming welcomes autumn with a significant drop in both temperature and rainfall. The month exhibits a balanced climate, with daylight and sunshine hours complementing the decrease in humidity. Drier days return, providing clear, blue skies and comfortable weather making it a perfect period for sightseeing and exploration.
Weather in October »Weather in November
For visitors who enjoy moderate weather,
November offers the best in terms of temperature and daylight hours. With only 42mm (1.65") of rainfall expected, the climate remains predominantly dry. A substantial decrease in humidity levels further enhances the pleasant atmosphere.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December brings winter back to
Kunming, with crisp air and average temperatures dropping to 3.1°C (37.6°F), the second lowest record of the year. A significant dip in rainfall totals, closing at 11mm (0.43"), results in a notably drier climate.
Weather in December » [Resources]