Climate and monthly weather forecast
Taiyuan, China

Sitting within the Köppen classification of a Humid continental climate, severe dry winter, hot summer (Dwa), Taiyuan, China experiences definitive seasonal shifts, with a broad range of weather conditions throughout the year. Geographically located in the northern hemisphere, the city is aligned with distinct temperature fluctuations and varying humidity levels.

Per meticulous analysis of the climate information, a carefully observed pattern emerges. Peak temperature highs reach a blazing 29.3°C (84.7°F) in July, only to dramatically drop to a frigid 1.8°C (35.2°F) in January. On the contrary, low temperatures demonstrate a mirror-like shift, with a stark plunge from 18.2°C (64.8°F) in July to -11.6°C (11.1°F) in January.

The trend of rainfall in Taiyuan follows a fairly predictable path, largely aligning with annual humidity levels. Illustrious in the abundant precipitation, summers see the maximum downfall with July and August receiving 102mm (4.02") and 107mm (4.21") respectively. On the other hand, winter months remain relatively dry with a meager 3mm (0.12") of rainfall recorded in both January and December, correlating with the lower humidity levels of 50% and 56% respectively during these months.

An analysis of sunshine hours further cements Taiyuan's contrasting climate, with longer daylight and sunshine hours characterizing summers. Of note are June and July with their impressive 14.8 and 14.5 daylight hours respectively. Conversely, winter days are markedly shorter, especially in December, where sunshine is limited to a modest 5.2 hours, while daylight lasts only 9.6 hours.

Unique to Taiyuan is the clear division of rainfall-rich and relatively arid months, therefore creating visibly distinct wet and dry periods. Additionally, despite the elevated temperatures, the UV index remains at a bearable level with a peak of 10 in June and July, lending credibility to the outdoor explorations during this period.

From a climatological perspective, the period from May to October appears ideal for visiting Taiyuan. Despite the higher rainfall figures of 33mm (1.3") to 107mm (4.21") in these months, ranging from 14.2 hours to 13.6 hours daylight and clear skies with sunshine durations of 8.6 hours to 7.2 hours makes for pleasant sightseeing and outdoor activities. Moreover, temperatures during this period are reasonably warm and range from 19.8°C (67.6°F) to 28.6°C (83.5°F), further endorsing an enjoyable visit.

The period from November to March would rank as the least preferable time for visiting Taiyuan. A combination of adverse weather conditions such as the frigid temperature ranging from 3.1°C (37.6°F) to -11.6°C (11.1°F) reduces outdoor activity opportunities. Coupled with this, the scant daylight hours of 9.9 to 10.8 and limited sunshine of 5.6 to 6.2 hours can limit the overall experience of a visit.

Spring, from March to May, unfurls a period of gradual warming in Taiyuan. The wind carries distinct signs of emerging life with temperatures rising from a modest 1.8°C (35.2°F) in March to a pleasant 25.5°C (77.9°F) in May. Notably, the rainfall also begins to increase, marking the transition from the arid winter months to the wet period of the year.

Summer ushers in a period of intense heat in Taiyuan from June to August with temperatures surging past the 28°C (82.4°F) mark. Accompanied by a significant increase in precipitation to 102mm (4.02") and 107mm (4.21") in July and August respectively, the city embraces a wet season. The daylight hours reach their zenith, creating the possibility of prolonged outdoor activities.

Autumn in Taiyuan, from September to November, witnesses a gentle descent of temperature from 23.7°C (74.7°F) to 3.1°C (37.6°F) and a decrease in rainfall figures. Fall is characterized by shorter days but the sun still shines for a decent 6 to 7 hours, offering a beautiful view with the leaves turning a vivid palette of colors.

Winter takes hold of Taiyuan in the months from December to February, with the temperature plunging deeply into the negatives, with a chill as low as -11.6°C (11.1°F) in January. Rainfall reaches its most insignificant levels with only 3mm (0.12") precipitation registered in December and January respectively. Despite the biting cold, the beauty of the snow-clad landscape can be appreciated during the limited daylight hours.

In Taiyuan, freezing temperatures usher in the New Year, with a monthly average high of 1.8°C (35.2°F) and a low averaging at -11.6°C (11.1°F). Compared to the balmy temperatures experienced in the later months, January seems like a deep freeze. Weather in January »

February continues to carry the winter chills of January but shows signs of thaw as highs can reach up to 5.4°C (41.7°F). Relative humidity saw a slight decrease, but the city witnesses an uptick in the average rainfall which now stands at 5mm (0.2"). Weather in February »

March offers a notable transition, carrying the city from the clutches of winter into the awaiting arms of spring. Daylight expands to about 12 hours and the mercury begins to climb, seeing an average high of 11.5°C (52.7°F). March marks a significant increase in rainfall, recording an average of 13mm (0.51") over the course of approximately 4.4 days, signaling a clear departure from the relatively dry winter months. Weather in March »

April signifies a period of rapid warming, evident in the generous amount of sunlight received. The region experiences a significant temperature increase, where highs rise to an average of 19.8°C (67.6°F), paving the way for outdoor endeavors. Weather in April »

As summer knocks softly on Taiyuan's door in May, the city witnesses some of its warmest temperatures thus far, touching a comfortable 25.5°C (77.9°F). This temperate and warm weather makes May perfect for outdoor recreation. The period sees increased rainfall, a trend that continues well into the ensuing summer months. Weather in May »

June provides a full-fledged sample of the upcoming summer with an average high of 28.6°C (83.5°F), exhibiting a significant temperature uplift from May. This change is a harbinger of the warmest phase of the year that lies ahead. Weather in June »

July, the peak of Taiyuan’s summer is characterized by the highest temperature of the year, crashing through the thermometer at a scorching 29.3°C (84.7°F). Residents usually stay indoors during the daytime, only venturing outdoors after sunset. Weather in July »

August continues the summer narrative with high temperatures often reaching up to 28°C (82.4°F). The rainfall retains its consistent record, with the total rainfall nearly matching July's volumes. Monitoring the weather forecasts becomes a routine for residents and visitors alike, planning their day around the probable thunderstorms. Weather in August »

In September, Taiyuan begins its transition from summer to autumn with an average high temperature of 23.7°C (74.7°F). The weather becomes much more agreeable with the retirement of the sweltering heat. The rainfall decreases by more than half compared to August, signaling the end of the monsoons. Weather in September »

October marks a significant drop in Taiyuan’s temperature, pushing the average peak to a cooler 17.8°C (64°F). This coolness offers residents and tourists an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors without the heat or the intense wet monsoon. Weather in October »

November sees Taiyuan shift towards winter, with average high temperatures dropping drastically to 9.5°C (49.1°F). The coolness may be reassuring after the preceding hot months but is a stark reminder of the looming winter. Rainfall figures match those of February, showing a considerable drop from October. Weather in November »

December welcomes the return of winter, marking some of the lowest temperatures of the year, with highs barely scraping past 3.1°C (37.6°F) on an average. The chilly weather is complemented by a sharp decrease in rainfall, making December one of the driest months of the year. Weather in December »