Weather in Shihezi

Planning your day or heading out for a stroll around Shihezi? Discover the most up-to-date weather information, detailed forecasts, and charts in this section.

The climate in Shihezi can be described as sharply continental and arid. Seasonal contrasts are very pronounced here: travellers can expect significant temperature differences between winter and summer. A characteristic feature of the weather is the extremely low amount of rainfall throughout the year, meaning the sky above the city most often remains clear and the air dry.

Summer here is hot and sunny. July is considered the warmest month, with an average temperature of around 28°C, whilst daytime highs often exceed 34°C. Winter, by contrast, is cold and quite harsh: in January, the temperature can drop to -20°C. There is little snowfall, but due to the low temperatures, it can persist for a long time, so very warm clothing will be required for a winter trip.

Spring and autumn in Shihezi pass quickly but offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring the city. In April, May, September, and October, moderate weather sets in without extreme heat or severe frost. This time is ideal for tourists who prefer a mild climate and long walks in the fresh air.

The climate in Shihezi is distinguished by pronounced continentality, ensuring a significant contrast between seasons. Winter here is truly harsh and frosty: the coldest month is January, when the average temperature drops to -16°C, and night-time figures often reach the -20°C mark. Summer, conversely, brings sweltering weather. The peak heat occurs in July, when the air warms up during the day to an average of +34°C, making this the hottest period of the year.

The transitional seasons delight with milder conditions, however, tourists should be prepared for palpable daily temperature fluctuations. For instance, in spring and autumn, the difference between daytime warmth and night-time cool can be more than 10–14 degrees. Whilst in April the air warms up to a comfortable +20°C during the day, at night the temperature can fall to +6°C. Therefore, when planning long walks, it is recommended to dress in layers to feel comfortable at any time of day.

Shihezi is characterised by an extremely arid climate, so an umbrella is not the most essential accessory for your trip here. Throughout the year, the amount of precipitation remains minimal, often amounting to around 0–1 mm per month. This makes the city an excellent destination for those who prefer clear weather, although tourists should be prepared for dry air in any season.

The winter period, which lasts from November to March, is characterised by stable sub-zero temperatures. During this time, precipitation falls exclusively as snow. However, snowfalls here are rare and not at all heavy: in the coldest months, such as December and January, an average of only 2 days with precipitation is recorded. Due to the low temperatures, even a small layer of snow can persist, creating a winter landscape without blizzards.

The highest frequency of precipitation, judging by the number of rainy days, is observed in the transitional seasons — spring and autumn. In March, April, May, as well as in September and October, the number of "wet" days increases to 6 per month. Nevertheless, these are usually very light and short-lived rains that rarely interfere with walks. Summer remains predominantly dry: for example, in July, the probability of precipitation is minimal — only about 3 days in the entire month.

Winter in Shihezi is distinguished by its harsh nature and low temperatures, which can drop to -20°C in January. If your trip is planned for the period from November to March, be sure to pay attention to warm gear. You will need high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters, and reliable outerwear — a down jacket with wind protection or a warm parka. Don't forget a hat, scarf, and mittens, as well as comfortable winter footwear with thick soles to keep your feet warm during long walks.

Summer, on the other hand, can be hot and dry, with the thermometer often rising above +30°C. For this season, clothing made from light natural fabrics, such as cotton and linen, is best suited, along with headwear for sun protection. In spring and autumn, the weather can be changeable, so the best solution is the principle of layering. Take items that can be easily combined: a t-shirt, a fleece jacket, and a light windbreaker, to feel comfortable both in the cool morning and during the warm day.

Given the region's extremely low rainfall and dry climate, you are unlikely to need an umbrella for protection against rain, though it may come in handy as shelter from the active sun. It is important to take care of skin protection: be sure to pack moisturising cream, lip balm, and sunscreen in your suitcase. Also, for exploring the city, you will need durable and comfortable walking shoes suitable for long excursions.