Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lanzhou, China

Lanzhou, one of China's northwestern cities, is classified under the Köppen climate system as BSk. This tag characterizes Lanzhou as a mid-latitude steppe region, leaning towards semi-arid conditions with warm summers and cold winters. The geographical layout of this city on the banks of the Yellow River sets a stage for some unique weather conditions not commonly experienced in all parts of the world.

The mercury level in the city fluctuates significantly across twelve months. It ranges from a low of -12°C (10.4°F) during the winter nights of January to as much as 27°C (80.6°F) in the summer afternoons of July. Daylight hours are most extensive in summer with up to 14.6 hours during June, decreasing to about 9.8 hours in December. Average rainfall varies noticeably from as little as 2mm (0.08") in the first month of the year to a substantial 83mm (3.27") in August.

Looking at sunlight hours, Lanzhou experiences an average of 8 hours per day from April to August. UV exposure peaks at an index of 12 during June and July, indicating intense solar radiation during these months. These fluctuations in weather parameters contribute to the diverse climate conditions throughout the year.

Unique weather patterns to note include the substantially wet August, receiving the highest rainfall, 83mm (3.27"), for the year. On the contrary, January remains the driest month with just 2mm (0.08") of precipitation. The mercury plunges to its lowest level in January, reaching -12°C (10.4°F), while hitting its peak at 27°C (80.6°F) in July, signaling the extremities of temperature Lanzhou encounters.

Considering the city's climate, the period from mid-April to October offers comfortable conditions for visitors. During this phase, the temperature revolves between 11°C (51.8°F) to 26°C (78.8°F), coupled with a modest amount of rainfall, making it an ideal period for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, the sunlight duration maintains a healthy average of 8 hours from April to August, providing ample daylight for explorations.

The winter months from November till February can be particularly harsh due to the frigid weather conditions. The daily temperature averages from -12°C (10.4°F) to 4°C (39.2°F), prolonged periods of freezing nights can make outdoor activities challenging during this season. The daylight hours are also at their shortest, limiting the duration one can spend exploring the city.

Spring emerges in Lanzhou starting from March and extends up to May. The temperature during this period ranges from -2°C (28.4°F) to 22°C (71.6°F). Rainfall averages range between 9mm (0.35") in March to 40mm (1.57") in May. Daylight progressively extends from 12 hours in March to 14.1 hours in May.

Summers in Lanzhou, spanning from June to August, showcase the highest temperatures of the year, from a comfortable 26°C (78.8°F) to a warm 27°C (80.6°F). Rainfall is at its peak during this season, averaging between 42mm (1.65") in June and touching 83mm (3.27") in August. Sunlight maintains its strength throughout this phase, averaging 8 hours per day.

From September to November, Autumn brings a decrease in temperature, with values varying from 21°C (69.8°F) to 8°C (46.4°F). Rainfall decreases from 52mm (2.05") in September to only 4mm (0.16") by November. The daylight duration reduces significantly from 12.4 hours in September to 10.3 hours in November.

Winter season in Lanzhou, stretching from December to February, is characterized by the coldest temperatures, averaging from a chilly -10°C (14°F) to a more manageable 4°C (39.2°F). Rainfall is quite minimal, measuring from a mere 1mm (0.04") in December to 3mm (0.12") in February. Sunlight duration is at its shortest during this time, fluctuating from 9.8 hours in December to 10.9 hours by February.

Lanzhou, China, experiences the coldest vibes of the year during January. The biting chill prevails with mercury levels plummeting to a minimum of -12°C (10.4°F) and a maximum of scarcely 1°C (33.8°F). Sunshine hours are at a year-round low, although the average 6 hours of daily sunshine still brings some respite from the cold. Weather in January »

Despite the persisting chill from January, February in Lanzhou brings a slight relief with an upward trend witnessed in the temperatures. However, the temperatures still range from -8°C (17.6°F) to 4°C (39.2°F), requiring warm layers to cope with the cold. Weather in February »

March indicates the transition from the rough winter to the beginning of spring in Lanzhou. A conspicuous increase in temperature, now ranging from -2°C (28.4°F) to 11°C (51.8°F), suggests a welcome warmth in the air. This month also presents a notable increase in the frequency of rainfall, though not very heavy at 9mm (0.35"). Weather in March »

April in Lanzhou presents a much-anticipated respite from the cold with temperatures well between 4°C (39.2°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Saturation significantly escalates with the monthly rainfall hitting 20mm (0.79"). Comparatively longer sunshine duration than March, coupled with an increased UV index, welcomes clear, bright days. Weather in April »

May is the gateway to the warm half of the year in Lanzhou, China. Ambient temperatures slowly ascend into the comfortable zone of 9°C (48.2°F) to 22°C (71.6°F). A slight elevation in rainfall hours coupled with similar sunshine duration, endorses a perfect blend of sun and showers. Weather in May »

Welcoming the summer, June characters itself with a further increase in temperatures, touching a high of 26°C (78.8°F) and a low of 12°C (53.6°F). The probability of rainfall exists, albeit not as frequent as the preceding month. Weather in June »

July witnesses the peak of summer, with the mercury topping at 27°C (80.6°F), the highest throughout the year. Rainfall rises steeply to a significant 69mm (2.72"), resulting in a thrumming monsoon beat. Lush green patches swaying under the balmy breeze characterizes the cityscape during July. Weather in July »

In August, Lanzhou sustains the warmth with the maximum temperature remaining a stable 26°C (78.8°F) from its July counterpart. The monsoon's crescendo peaks in August, reflected in the staggering 83mm (3.27") rainfall, the height for the year in this city. Weather in August »

September marks the transition from summer to autumn in Lanzhou. Torrential rain from August dwindles to 52mm (2.05"), showing a decline in the monsoonal intensity. An evident drop in temperatures indicates shorter, cooler days ahead. Weather in September »

October in Lanzhou brings the onset of fall with noticeable fresher temperatures from 4°C (39.2°F) to 15°C (59°F). Rainfall reduces further to 25mm (0.98"), offering the illusion of drier days. Despite the fall in mercury, plenty of sunshine still prevails, ensuring comfortable daylight conditions. Weather in October »

November in Lanzhou introduces winter as temperatures gradually sink, registering values from -4°C (24.8°F) to 8°C (46.4°F). A substantial downturn in rainfall marks one of the driest months with a scanty 4mm (0.16") precipitation. Weather in November »

The circle completes with December in Lanzhou as the city once again finds itself poised at the commencement of a vast winter spell. Temperatures bottom out at -10°C (14°F) only to ascend to a modest 2°C (35.6°F). The city records the lowest annual precipitation at 1mm (0.04"). Weather in December »