Weather in Dunhuang

Find out the weather forecast for Dunhuang to ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible. Below, you will find current weather reports, temperature charts, and data for the upcoming days.

The climate of Dunhuang can be described as sharply continental and arid, due to its location on the edge of the desert. Extremely dry weather prevails here, with a high number of sunny days throughout the year. Precipitation in this region is exceptional: there is virtually no rain for most of the year, and humidity levels remain minimal.

The seasons are distinct and contrasting. Summer is hot and sultry: in July and August, the average temperature stays above +25°C, with daytime highs often reaching +34°C. Winter, by contrast, is cold and frosty, with averages around -6°C to -7°C and night frosts dropping to -12°C. Snowfall is extremely rare, leaving winter landscapes often snowless and stark.

The most comfortable times to visit are the transitional periods — May and September — when daytime temperatures are a pleasant +20°C. Travelers should note that due to the desert climate, there are significant temperature fluctuations between day and night; therefore, even during the warm season, it is recommended to carry a light jacket for evening strolls.

The climate in Dunhuang is characterized by distinct seasonality and temperature contrasts typical of desert terrain. The annual range is quite wide, spanning from severe winter cold to intense summer heat. The coldest month is traditionally January, when night temperatures drop to an average of -12.6°C, and daytime air rarely warms above -1.0°C. At the opposite end of the scale is July — the peak of the heat — when the average daily maximum reaches 34.3°C.

Summer in the region can be described as hot and extremely dry. Given the almost total absence of precipitation (the number of rainy days in summer months tends toward zero), dry heat prevails. In June and August, daytime readings consistently exceed 32°C. Winter, on the other hand, brings frosty and clear weather. Although there is little snowfall, low temperatures combined with winds require serious preparation and warm clothing for comfortable outdoor activities.

A key feature of the local climate is the significant diurnal temperature variation. The difference between daytime warmth and nighttime chill is very palpable here, especially during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn. For example, in April, the air can warm up to a comfortable 21.6°C during the day, while cooling down to 5.9°C at night. Even in hot September, after a daytime high of 27.9°C, the temperature drops to 12.2°C at night, so travelers are advised to always have an extra layer of clothing for evening outings.

The climate of Dunhuang is characterized by exceptional dryness, making precipitation a rare and insignificant occurrence here. Throughout the year, the amount of moisture tends toward zero, making this region ideal for those who prefer clear weather. There is no distinct rainy season, as arid conditions persist almost constantly.

A slight increase in the probability of precipitation occurs during the warm period. From April to August, an average of only one to two wet days per month is recorded. July can conditionally be called the "wettest" month, with about 2 days of possible precipitation; however, even then, rains are often short-lived and evaporate quickly under the hot sun.

During the cold season, especially in January, February, and December, precipitation is almost entirely absent. Given the freezing temperatures in winter (averaging down to -6.8°C in January), the rare moisture in November (about 1 day) may fall as light snow or frost, but you are unlikely to need an umbrella on your trip.

Dunhuang is located in a desert climate zone, so when packing, your main focus should be on protection from the sun and wind. Summers can be quite hot, with temperatures above +30°C, so be sure to bring light clothing made of natural breathable fabrics, sunglasses, reliable high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat. Given the extremely low humidity throughout the year, tourists are also advised to carry skin moisturizers and lip balm to prevent dryness.

Winters in the region are frosty, so for a trip between December and February, a warm down jacket, thermal underwear, a hat, and gloves are essential. Spring and autumn are characterized by significant temperature fluctuations: days can be warm and sunny, while nights are cold. During these seasons, layering is the ideal solution: a combination of a T-shirt, fleece sweater, and windbreaker will allow you to easily adapt to weather changes throughout the day.

For long walks around the attractions, including the famous caves and sand dunes, choose the most comfortable closed-toe flat shoes, such as sneakers. Since rain is a rare occurrence in Dunhuang, you will likely not need an umbrella, but a light scarf or bandana will be indispensable accessories to protect your face from sand and dust during gusts of wind.