Climate and monthly weather forecast
Nanjing, China

Nanjing, with its geographical location in the lower Yangtze River drainage basin and Yangtze River Delta region, experiences a predominant Humid subtropical climate. According to the Köppen climate classification, this type of climate is denoted as Cfa, marked by high humidity and rainfall throughout the year, and notable seasonal temperature differences.

Throughout the year, the temperature of Nanjing fluctuates between -2°C (28.4°F) and 32°C (89.6°F). The hottest months tend to be July and August, each peaking at 32°C (89.6°F), while the coldest time of the year occurs in January with temperatures sinking down to -2°C (28.4°F). This significant variation marks a clear delineation between the seasons; winter and summer each holding distinct characteristics.

The city is known for substantial precipitation throughout the year. Rainfall totals move from a low of 27mm (1.06") in December to a high of 201mm (7.91") in July. Moreover, the city experiences the most rainy days in July, up to 13 days, and fewer in December with 8 rainy days.

Nanjing enjoys ample daylight, with an annual range from 10.1 hours in December to 14.2 hours in June. Furthermore, the hours of sunshine vary between 5 hours during the winter months and up to 8 hours in August. In reference to UV index, the sun's strength in Nanjing intensifies from March, hitting its zenith at 11 in June and July, and then decreases as the city moves into the colder, darker part of the year.

Considering the climate characteristics, the prime time for visiting Nanjing extends from April to June. During this period, the city experiences mild weather with temperatures ranging from 13°C (55.4°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). Rainfall remains relatively moderate, measuring from 70mm (2.76") to 97mm (3.82"), while sunlight hours stay steady at 6 hours per day with UV index between 7 and 11. It gives tourists plenty of time to explore the city and its hidden gems while still protecting their skin from potential damage.

The less favorable time to visit Nanjing is during the peak summer months of July and August when the city experiences its highest temperatures and rainfall. The mercury often reaches 32°C (89.6°F) and the downpours accumulate to 201mm (7.91") and 122mm (4.8") respectively, making outdoor activities challenging and less comfortable. The UV index also remains high at 11 and 10 respectively and requires precautions for sun exposure.

In the spring spanning March to May, Nanjing displays warming temperatures as the frosty clutches of winter fade. The weather transitions gradually from a low 4°C (39.2°F) in March to a pleasant 25°C (77°F) in May. Corresponding rainfall measures also increase over these months, going from 70mm (2.76") in March to 97mm (3.82") in May, while daylight hours extend from 12 to 13.8 hours. During this season, the city gleams under 5 to 6 hours of sunshine daily with a moderate UV level moving up to 10 from 7.

Characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall, Nanjing’s summer extends from June to August. With temperatures fluctuating from 29°C (84.2°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), this period marks the hottest season in Nanjing. Correspondingly, rainfall peaks at 201mm (7.91") in July making this the wettest month of the year. Despite the swings in temperature and precipitation, the city continues to enjoy generous sunlight, up to 14.2 hours of daylight and 6 to 8 hours of sunshine during this period. The UV levels remain high at 11 in June and July, indicating a need for sun protection for those venturing outdoors.

With its pleasant temperatures and relatively lower rainfall, autumn is a comfortable season in Nanjing. From September to November, autumn offers an excellent range of temperatures from 27°C (80.6°F) down to 16°C (60.8°F). Corresponding to these temperatures, the city receives lower rainfall amounts, shifting from 95mm (3.74") in September to 53mm (2.09") in November. Naturally, daylight hours and sunshine hours decrease, going from 13.3 to 10.5 hours and 6 hours consistently. The UV index reduces gradually from a high level of 9 in September to a moderate 4 in November.

Winter in Nanjing, lasting from December to February, is cold and crisp. The city witnesses a significant drop in temperature from a chivalrous10°C (50°F) in December to a chilly -2°C (28.4°F) in January. Accompanying the drop in temperatures, the city experiences less rainfall, dropping down to the annual low of 27mm (1.06") in December and climbing surprisingly up to 52mm (2.05") in February. Daylight hours and sunshine hours recede to their shortest duration of the year, decreasing from 10.1 to 11.1 hours of daylight with 5 hours of sunshine throughout. The UV index declines to its lowest level with a value of 3 in December and February, pointing towards less intense solar radiation.

Beginning on a calm note, January in Nanjing, China offers a rather tranquil atmosphere, with winter getting into its stride. An embracing winter chill marks the air with delicate snowfall painting a picturesque scene. Nevertheless, temperatures often dip to a chilling low of -2°C (28.4°F) presenting the coldest edge of the year. Weather in January »

As the city traverses through February, it sees a rather subtle yet noticeable change in weather. The biting winter chill starts to ease off, making room for pleasant cool temperatures. The average high temperatures climb to 8°C (46.4°F) from January's 7°C (44.6°F). Weather in February »

As March unfolds, Nanjing transitions from winter to spring, and a hint of warmth starts to seep into the city's air. This month signifies the commencement of the thawing process with the temperature and the number of daylight hours showing an upward trend. Weather in March »

April marks the heart of spring in Nanjing with temperatures turning significantly warmer. The weather becomes favorable for outdoor activities with the city basking in the glory of a full-blown spring. It is in this month that the city records an average 87mm (3.43") rainfall as spring showers become frequent. Weather in April »

May experiences a notable increase in temperature and sunshine but maintains the charming spring scenery. The[city name]weather grows warmer, and the city vibrates with life as summer is on the horizon. A high temperature of 25°C (77°F) signifies that summer is knocking on the door of the city. Weather in May »

June announces the arrival of summer in Nanjing. It is the month when the temperature hike is most discernible, with the city taking on a torrid charm. With a noticeable leap, the average high temperatures reach 29°C (84.2°F). Despite the scorching heat, this time marks the beginning of the summer holiday season with various events and festivals. Weather in June »

July brings along the peak of summer in Nanjing. The city experiences the year's maximum temperatures, with averages reaching as high as 32°C (89.6°F). The city endures a hot and sticky climate, with rainfall peaking at its yearly maxima. Weather in July »

Sailing into August, Nanjing finds itself in the peak of the heatwave. The city maintains intensely soaring temperatures matching the highs of July at 32°C (89.6°F). This period marks one of the rainiest periods of the year. Nevertheless, Nanjing in August has its romance that whispers through the rain-washed foliage and murmur of the city. Weather in August »

Cushioned nicely between summer and fall, September in Nanjing is a month of transformation. As Fall begins to make its presence known, temperatures start to gently dip, signaling milder weather. From the peak of summer, the weather now cools, bringing down the temperature to a pleasant average high of 27°C (80.6°F). Weather in September »

October fully embraces the beauty of autumn with considerably cooler conditions compared to September. Cardigans and light jackets become a common sight as the wind carries a chill. October witnesses a further drop in the average high temperature, resting at a comfortable 22°C (71.6°F). Weather in October »

As November sets in, winter starts knocking at the doors of Nanjing. With temperatures continuing to drop, the city gears up to embrace another round of winter. This month records an average high temperature of 16°C (60.8°F), a marked dip from October. Weather in November »

Completing the annual weather cycle, December unveils the onset of winter in its full stride. Nanjing witnesses a significant decrease in temperatures, with averages falling to a chilly 10°C (50°F) high. Winter outfits become a necessity, and locals can be seen enjoying numerous winter activities around the city. Weather in December »