Climate and monthly weather forecastLhasa, China

The climate of Lhasa

Lhasa, China, resides under the influence of a Subarctic climate, categorized as Dwc in the Köppen climate classification. The Dwc type signifies a predominance of dry winters and cool summers. It is pertinent to scrutinize numerous interwoven meteorological indicators to perceive the climate here in context.

The respective city experiences an extensive variation in weather parameters throughout the year. Temperatures fluctuate from a low of -9°C (15.8°F) in the winter months to highs of 23.2°C (73.8°F) during the summer. Relative humidity levels remain relatively low at the beginning of the year, averaging 26% in February, and surge up to their highest levels of 66% in August. Precipitation undergoes quite a dramatic shift, from minimal rainfall of 1mm (0.04") in January to a peak of 121mm (4.76") in August, with associated rainfall days rising from 0.7 days to 20 days over the same period.

The daylight hours estimate a peak of 14 hours in June and a low of 10.3 hours in December, complementing the varying weather throughout the year. Meanwhile, the UV index is particularly high during the summer months, with values of up to 12 from May to August. Unique to this landscape are the dry winter months from November to March, with rainfall under 3mm (0.12").

The best time to visit Lhasa

Optimal periods to visit vary depending on individual preferences for climate. Tourists seeking milder temperatures may appreciate the climate in May. Temperatures hover around 19.9°C (67.8°F) and the rainfall, though considerable at 28mm (1.1"), is considerably less than the amounts seen in the later summer months, making outdoor activities pleasant.

The worst time to visit Lhasa

Those unaccustomed to colder climates and low rainfall might find the peak winter month of January challenging, with average lows dropping to -9°C (15.8°F) and minimal rainfall of 1mm (0.04"). Similarly, late summer months, particularly August, could pose difficulties for visitors not acclimatized to high humidity levels of 66% and heavy precipitation accumulating to 121mm (4.76").

Spring weather in Lhasa

Spring, starting from March to May, sees temperatures warming from 12.7°C (54.9°F) to 19.9°C (67.8°F). Precipitation increases gradually from 3mm (0.12") in March to 28mm (1.1") in May, while daylight extends from 12 hours to 13.6 hours over the same period. UV index in spring escalates and reaches a high of 12 in May, necessitating adequate sun protection.

Summer weather in Lhasa

June to August marks the summer period in Lhasa. Temperatures soar from 23.2°C (73.8°F) in June to a high of 22.6°C (72.7°F) in July before dipping slightly to 21.4°C (70.5°F) in August. Rainfall peaks during this season, with August witnessing the highest precipitation levels of 121mm (4.76"). The UV index remains consistently high at 12 throughout the summer, while daylight hours peak at 14 in June.

Autumn weather in Lhasa

As Lhasa transitions from summer to winter during the months of September to November, temperatures fall from 19.9°C (67.8°F) to 12.1°C (53.8°F). Rainfall levels decrease significantly from 68mm (2.68") in September to a mere 1mm (0.04") in November. The daylight duration decreases from 12.3 hours in September to 10.7 hours in November.

Winter weather in Lhasa

The winter season in Lhasa stretches from December to February. Temperatures plummet from 8°C (46.4°F) in December to a chilly -9°C (15.8°F) in January. Despite the cold, winter in Lhasa is relatively dry with an average rainfall of 1mm (0.04") in December through to February. Daylight hours reduce to an average of 10.5 hours in January but increase progressively to 11.1 hours by February. The UV index is at its lowest in winter, ranging from 5 in December to 7 in February.

Weather in January

Situated at an altitude of about 3,650 meters, Lhasa, the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region in China, welcomes the new year with a rather chilly weather. Cool, dry air characterizes the month, causing low relative humidity. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As Lhasa transitions from January to February, a slight uptick in temperature can be noted, although the weather remains predominantly cold. The brevity of the showers gives birth to a considerable decline in the number of rainy days. Weather in February »

Weather in March

With the arrival of March, Lhasa experiences a warming trend as winter recedes. A rise in the moisture content is sync with an increase in rainfall, yet the weather remains predominantly dry. Conditions remain favorable for sun-seekers, with the daylight period gradually elongating. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April marks the onset of spring in Lhasa, bringing in the promise of warmer days. While rainfall sees a considerable increase, the majority of the month stays dry due to shorter storm durations. The lengthening daylight hours hint towards summer's imminent arrival. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Weather in Lhasa takes a turn in May with a marked spike in temperatures and humidity. Torrential downpours succeed the sporadic showers of April, kick-starting the city's rainy season. A considerable stretch of sunshine despite increased rainfall signifies the city's high altitude. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June brings the first hint of summer to Lhasa, with a further escalation in temperatures. The city continues its dance with the monsoons as rainfall quantities swell significantly. A relative increase in humidity coupled with extended daylight hours signifies the full advent of summer. Weather in June »

Weather in July

The heart of summer beats strongly in July, with Lhasa registering the highest rainfall of the year. The month teems with moisture as reflected in the sharp rise in relative humidity. Despite the overcast conditions, the city enjoys ample sunshine, all while managing the elevated UV index. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Weather conditions remain consistently warm as Lhasa glides from July to August. The transition does not dampen the rainy season, with August recording rainfall almost equivalent to its predecessor. Average daylight hours show a slight reduction, making way for marginally extended evenings. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September indicates a downward trend as summer starts to wane in Lhasa. The city registers a notable reduction in rainfall, marking the end of the monsoon season towards the month-end. With the easing of rains, the humidity levels also decrease, bringing some relief. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October introduces the onset of autumn in Lhasa, significantly lowering temperatures from the earlier period. The city witnesses a decline in rainfall, rendering most days dry. A surge in sunshine duration coupled with decline in relative humidity offers an idyllic environment for sightseeing. Weather in October »

Weather in November

By November, Lhasa ensues the slow and steady march back towards winter. The humidity levels continue to tumble, and rainfall is barely a feature. The winter sun prevails for an extended duration, casting longer shadows as daylight hours diminish. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Lhasa concludes the year in the grip of winter, with December mirroring January's weather conditions. The air remains cold and dry, reflecting the city's high-altitude climate. Daylight hours are moderately short, focusing on the fact that winter is at its peak. Weather in December »