Weather in Zhanjiang

Stay up to date with the latest weather conditions in the city of Zhanjiang. In this section, you will find current data, forecasts, and useful charts to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

The climate in Zhanjiang can be characterised as humid subtropical, with distinctly defined seasons. The city enjoys warm weather throughout most of the year, without the sharp temperature fluctuations typical of continental regions. Winters here are mild, whilst summers are hot and humid, which is typical for the southern coastal areas of China.

In Zhanjiang, two main seasons are observed: dry and wet. The summer months, roughly from May to September, bring the highest amount of precipitation and high humidity, with average temperatures reaching 28-29.5°C, and maximums often exceeding 31-32°C. This period is characterised by the highest number of rainy days, especially in August. Winter, from December to February, is significantly drier by contrast, with minimal precipitation (December is practically rainless) and comfortable average temperatures of around 17-19°C.

The transitional seasons – spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) – are distinguished by a gradual change in weather conditions. In spring, the temperature and number of rainy days begin to rise, preparing the city for the humid summer. In autumn, however, the heat subsides and precipitation decreases, creating pleasant conditions for visiting before the onset of the cooler and drier winter.

Zhanjiang is characterised by a warm climate throughout the year, with distinct but not extreme temperature fluctuations. The annual range of average temperatures extends from approximately 17.4°C in January to 29.5°C in July. The coldest month is usually January, when the average minimum temperature drops to 14.0°C, and the daily maximum reaches 20.8°C. The hottest period falls in July, with an average temperature of 29.5°C, minimum night-time temperatures around 26.6°C, and daytime highs often exceeding 32°C.

The summer months in Zhanjiang, from May to September, are distinguished by consistently high temperatures. Average daily highs hold steady above 31°C, and nights remain very warm, with temperatures rarely falling below 25-26°C. Such weather, combined with the high humidity and frequent rainfall typical of this period, creates a sensation of a hot and sultry summer. The difference between day and night temperatures during the summer period is comparatively small, averaging 5-6°C, which emphasises the constant warmth.

Winter in Zhanjiang, covering December, January, and February, passes mildly and comfortably. Average temperatures during this period fluctuate from 17.4°C to 19.0°C. Night-time minimums usually do not fall below 14°C, whilst daily maximums reach a pleasant 20-22°C. This makes winter in Zhanjiang significantly warmer than in many other regions. Diurnal temperature variations in winter are slightly more pronounced than in summer, reaching 6-7.5°C, but overall the weather remains consistently moderate, without frost or severe cold.

In Zhanjiang, a clearly defined seasonality of precipitation is observed, dividing the year into wet and dry periods. Given the city's warm climate, precipitation here falls predominantly in the form of rain; snow is uncharacteristic for this region. The dry season lasts from November to March, whilst the wet season covers the period from May to September, with April and October being transitional months.

The greatest amount of precipitation occurs during the summer months. August is the wettest month of the year, when an average of 10 mm of precipitation falls and there are about 25 rainy days. June, July, and September are also characterised by a significant amount of precipitation (about 8 mm) and a large number of rainy days (22-23 days). In May, precipitation reaches 7 mm with 21 rainy days. During this wet period, rains can be frequent and intense, which is typical for a monsoon climate.

The dry season, by contrast, is distinguished by minimal precipitation. The driest month is December, when there is practically no precipitation (0 mm) and only about 2 days with rain. January and November are also very dry, with 1 mm of precipitation and approximately 5 rainy days. February and March show a slight increase in precipitation to 2 mm, but the number of rainy days remains moderate (7 and 11 days respectively). In these months, the weather is predominantly sunny and dry.

The transitional months, April and October, demonstrate a gradual change in the precipitation regime. In April, the amount of precipitation increases to 4 mm, and the number of rainy days reaches 14, heralding the onset of the wet season. In October, after the peak of summer rains, precipitation decreases to 4 mm, and the number of rainy days drops to 12, signalling a transition to drier weather.

When planning a trip to Zhanjiang, it is important to consider its humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons so that your luggage is packed optimally. Regardless of the time of year, you will find comfortable footwear useful for walking, as the city offers much of interest to explore, as well as sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. Do not forget a universal adapter and a portable charger for your gadgets.

If your trip falls during the period from May to September, be prepared for hot and humid weather with frequent rains. At this time, average temperatures range from 28°C to 29.5°C, and the number of rainy days can reach 25 per month. Therefore, your suitcase must include light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics, headwear, sunglasses, as well as a reliable umbrella or a light raincoat. Open footwear that dries quickly will also be very appropriate. Given the high humidity, insect repellent would not be amiss either.

For travel to Zhanjiang from November to February, when the weather is milder and drier, with temperatures from 17°C to 23°C and minimal precipitation, it is worth packing clothing based on the principle of layering. Light sweaters, cardigans, t-shirts, and a windbreaker or light jacket will allow you to feel comfortable both during the day and in the cool evenings. In the transitional months, such as March, April, and October, when the weather can be changeable – from warm days to cooler ones with possible rains – layering your clothing will also become your best ally. A compact umbrella may be useful during these periods as well.