Weather in Chengdu

Planning a trip to Chengdu or just want to know what the weather is like there? In this section, you will find up-to-date information on meteorological conditions, as well as detailed forecasts and weather charts.

Chengdu welcomes guests with a humid subtropical climate featuring four distinct seasons. The city is known for its high humidity throughout most of the year, which gives it a unique atmosphere. Winters here are relatively mild and short, without severe frosts, with an average temperature of around 6-9°C. Summer, on the other hand, is hot and long, with temperatures regularly rising above +25°C and reaching +30°C or higher in July and August.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) in Chengdu are pleasant transitional periods with comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring the city. However, it is worth noting that these seasons, like summer, are characterized by a large number of rainy days. Summer, especially July and August, is not only the hottest but also the wettest period, with a peak in rainy days. In winter, the amount of precipitation decreases noticeably, but overcast weather and high humidity remain frequent phenomena, creating the slightly foggy or misty atmosphere characteristic of Chengdu.

The annual temperature progression in Chengdu demonstrates a clear change of seasons, providing a variety of weather conditions for travellers. The hottest months are traditionally July and August. During this period, the average temperature holds steadily at 27.0°C and 27.4°C respectively. Daytime highs in these summer months regularly cross the +30°C threshold, reaching an average of 31.2°C in August. The coolest month is considered to be January, when the average air temperature drops to 6.7°C. Nighttime temperatures in January can reach 3.3°C, while daytime highs rarely rise above 10.1°C.

The summer period in Chengdu, covering June, July, and August, is characterized by consistently hot weather. Average daytime temperatures at this time range from 29.4°C in June to a peak of 31.2°C in August. Nights also remain very warm: minimum temperatures do not drop below 21.6°C in June and 23.6°C in August. This creates a sensation of constant heat, often accompanied by the high humidity characteristic of the summer season in Chengdu, which is also indicated by the significant number of rainy days, especially in July and August.

Winter in Chengdu is distinguished by its comparative mildness and lack of severe frosts. In December and January, average temperatures are around 7.4°C and 6.7°C respectively. During the day, the thermometer usually shows from 10.1°C to 10.6°C, and at night the temperature can drop to 3.3°C - 4.2°C. By February, a gradual warming is felt, with an average temperature of 9.0°C and daytime highs reaching 12.8°C. Daily temperature fluctuations in Chengdu throughout the year are mostly moderate, usually ranging from 6°C to 9°C. This means that sharp contrasts between daytime heat and nighttime cool are not observed, although in spring, for example in March and April, the difference between the maximum and minimum temperature can be slightly larger.

Precipitation distribution in Chengdu has a distinct seasonal character. The city is known for its high humidity year-round, yet the intensity and frequency of rains vary significantly from month to month. In general, one can distinguish a clear wet season in summer and a drier period in winter.

The greatest amount of precipitation falls during the summer months, turning them into a true rainy season. July is the absolute leader both in terms of precipitation volume (averaging 10 mm) and the number of rainy days – about 21 days per month. August follows closely, bringing about 9 mm of precipitation and approximately 19 rainy days. During these months, rains can be quite intense. June and September also belong to the wet period, although with a lower total amount of precipitation (3-4 mm), but still with frequent rains (12 and 16 days respectively).

Winter in Chengdu is the driest period. January stands out with almost a complete absence of precipitation (0 mm) and the lowest number of rainy days – only about 5. December, February, and November are also characterized by very low precipitation levels (about 1 mm) and a small number of days with rain (approximately 6 days). The spring months (March, April, May) and autumn October are transitional. At this time, the amount of precipitation is moderate (from 1 mm to 3 mm), but the number of rainy days remains quite high (from 10 to 15 days), which can mean frequent but not too heavy rains or drizzle. Snow for Chengdu, based on average temperatures, is a rare phenomenon; precipitation in winter, if it occurs, is predominantly in the form of rain.

When planning a trip to Chengdu, it is important to consider its specific climate: high humidity year-round and frequent precipitation, the intensity of which changes depending on the season. The key principle when packing your suitcase should be layering your clothes. This will allow you to easily adapt to fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels throughout the day. An indispensable companion on any trip to Chengdu will be an umbrella or a light raincoat, as even in periods with a small total amount of precipitation, there can be quite a few rainy days – from 5-6 days in winter to 15-20 in summer. And, of course, do not forget comfortable walking shoes – the city encourages long walks, and the weather can be changeable.

In the warm season, covering spring (from March to May with an average temperature of 14°C to 22°C) and the especially hot, humid summer (from June to August, when the average temperature rises to 25-27°C, and the maximum can exceed 30°C), your wardrobe should consist of light, breathable clothing. T-shirts, shorts, loose trousers, and dresses made from natural fabrics will help you comfortably endure summer temperatures and high humidity. In summer, especially in July and August, when Chengdu experiences peak precipitation (up to 10 mm and over 20 rainy days per month), a reliable umbrella or a quality raincoat will become your best friends. Don't forget sunscreen and headwear. For the autumn months (September-November), when the temperature gradually decreases (from 23°C in September to 13°C in November), and for the mild winter (December-February), when average temperatures range from +6°C to +9°C, provide for warmer clothing. You will need sweaters, fleece jackets, a mid-season or warm winter jacket (especially for January with its night temperatures around +3°C), warm trousers, as well as a hat and scarf. Even in winter, despite the lower amount of precipitation, water-resistant outerwear can be useful due to the general dampness of the air.