Climate and monthly weather forecastXi'an, China

The climate of Xi'an

Xi'an, situated in China, belongs to the Köppen climate classification of Cwa, a zone characterized by a humid subtropical climate with a dry winter. Within this climatic framework, the city experiences distinct seasonal variations in its weather parameters, including temperature, rainfall, and humidity.

Analysing the yearly weather data indicates that the highest average temperature swings from 4.8°C (40.6°F) in January to a peak of 32.1°C (89.8°F) in July. On the other side, the lowest average temperature ranges from -3.8°C (25.2°F) in January to 21.9°C (71.4°F) also in July. The city experiences the maximum average relative humidity of 79% in September, compared to the lowest of 62% registered during June. Precipitation exhibits a significant degree of variation, with the volume of rainfall progressing from a mere 6mm (0.24") in December, reaching a high of 99mm (3.9") in July.

There is also considerable disparity in the length of daylight and sunshine hours throughout the year. Daylight hours are the shortest in December with 9.9 hours, extending to their longest in June, offering 14.4 hours of daylight. Correspondingly, sunshine hours range from 3 hours in both December and January, surging to the longest duration of 6.3 hours in August.

The best time to visit Xi'an

Considering the temperature, rainfall, and humidity, the optimal time for touring Xi'an falls from March to May. During this period, visitors benefit from the temperate weather, characterized by average temperatures oscillating between 3.6°C (38.5°F) to 21°C (69.8°F), making it comfortable for sightseeing.

The worst time to visit Xi'an

In contrast, the most unfavorable period for visiting Xi'an spans from July to September. The summer months are marked by the highest temperatures, reaching up to 32.1°C (89.8°F), paired with the peak average relative humidity of 79% in September and maximum rainfall of 99mm (3.9") in July. This combination of high heat and humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Spring weather in Xi'an

Spring in Xi'an, encompassing the months of March to May, exhibits a moderate weather pattern. The temperature during this season moves between 3.6°C (38.5°F) to 21°C (69.8°F). The volume of rainfall stays primarily contained under 43mm (1.69"), with the number of rainy days not exceeding 8.4. The relative humidity ranges from 63% to 68%, offering a pleasant climate for exploration.

Summer weather in Xi'an

Xi'an's summer period, from June through August, witnesses the hottest months of the year. Temperatures shoot up to a scorching 32.1°C (89.8°F) in July with the lowest average temperature not dropping below 19.2°C (66.6°F). This is coupled with heavy rainfall with a peak at 99mm (3.9") in July, marking it as the wettest month. The average sunshine hours extend up to 6.2 hours while relative humidity varies between 71% to 75%.

Autumn weather in Xi'an

The autumn season in Xi'an, signifying the months of September to November, experiences a decline in temperature from 30.8°C (87.4°F) to 12.2°C (54°F). In concurrence with this, the average rainfall also steps down, fluctuating from 92mm (3.62") in September to 24mm (0.94") in November. The average hours of daylight decrease from 12.4 hours to 10.4 hours during this season.

Winter weather in Xi'an

Winter in Xi'an runs from December to February. The temperature during this season is relatively low, with an average high of 8.3°C (46.9°F) in February and a chilling low of -3.8°C (25.2°F) in January. The amount of rainfall also reduces to its lowest during these months, with values dwindling from 7mm (0.28") in January to 6mm (0.24") in December. Winter days, on average, receive the shortest amount of daylight, hovering around 10 hours, with only 3 hours of sunshine.

Weather in January

January sees the onset of the cold season in Xi'an, China, with temperatures as low as -3.8°C (25.2°F) to highs of 4.8°C (40.6°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The city experiences fewer hours of daylight, limited sun exposure, and mild humidity. Weather in January »

Weather in February

With the exit of January, Xi'an in February presents a slight shift towards warmer temperatures. The humidity remains comparatively stable. The daylight period and the sun's exposure gradually increase, brightening the days bit by bit. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March indicates the arrival of spring in Xi'an, bringing with it a subtle increase in temperature and extended daylight hours. There is a palpable shift from February's occasional showers to more frequent rainfall. The weather generally observes a surge in relative humidity levels throughout the month. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April experiences a substantial escalation in temperatures, characterizing a warmer climate compared to March. A marked increase in rainfall from 29mm (1.14") to 43mm (1.69"), expanses over 8.4 days symbolizing the rainy season's approach. Weather in April »

Weather in May

With temperatures escalating from 21°C (69.8°F) to 26.1°C (79°F), the warmth of May, quite distinctively, introduces the hot season in Xi'an. Continued lengthening of daylight, paired with greater sunshine hours, marks the days as visibly brighter. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June marks the onset of summers in Xi'an and is characterized by high temperatures, reaching a peak of 31.2°C (88.2°F). This surge in temperature is significantly higher than May’s weather. It also records increased rainfall as compared to May, indicating an intensifying monsoon pattern. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July unfolds with stability in high temperatures, as the hot conditions in June extend into this month. On an exceptional note, the city records its highest rainfall of 99mm (3.9") over 10 days in the year, signifying the peak of the rainy season. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Xi'an ushers in cooler temperatures that bring relief from July's extreme heat. The frequency and amount of rainfall decrease slightly, though the city's weather remains quite humid. Prolonged daylight continues to prevail, shadowed by slightly fewer sunshine hours than in July's time. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The arrival of September rings in the autumn season in Xi'an. It brings cooler temperatures that deviate notably from August’s hotter conditions. However, September experiences a substantial amount of rainfall, which surpasses that of August, over more frequent rain days. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Xi'an marks a clear departure from September's weather into the comfort of autumn. Gradual reduction in temperatures, decreased humidity, and lesser rainfall highlight the month's climatic highlights. Shorter daylight durations coupled with fewer sunshine hours start to give a hint of the approaching winter chill. Weather in October »

Weather in November

With a sharp drop in temperatures, November in Xi'an introduces the beginning of the colder season. A significant reduction in rainfall from 60mm (2.36") in October to 24mm (0.94") in November sets a more arid weather trend. Reduced daylight hours and lower UV index readings necessitate the use of warmer clothing and protection from cold winds. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December sees the peak of the cold season in Xi'an with temperatures nose-diving down to -2.5°C (27.5°F). Marked by its meager rainfall of 6mm (0.24"), it's the driest month of the year. Shortest daylight hours and the year’s least sunshine hours contribute to the city’s winter chills. Weather in December »