The climate of Chongqing
Chongqing features a humid subtropical climate in line with the Köppen climate classification of Cfa. Being a major city in Southwest
China, Chongqing's climate is characterized by lengthy monsoons, high humidity, and four distinct seasons.
Throughout the year, temperatures range from 6.3°C (43.3°F) to 34.4°C (93.9°F). The warmest period is from
June to
August, seeing average highs between 30°C (86°F) and 34.4°C (93.9°F). While the coldest period runs from
December to
February with average lows ranging from 6.3°C (43.3°F) to 8.7°C (47.7°F). Humidity generally fluctuates between 55% and 72%.
July records the highest levels, while February and
March represent the driest months.
Rainfall is most pronounced in June and July, with monthly averages at 87mm (3.43") and 109mm (4.29"), respectively. These two months also witness the highest number of rainy days. Conversely, the least rainfall amounting to 7mm (0.28") is received in December. Despite the minimal snowfall, notable measurements are recorded in
January and December at 2mm (0.08") and 1mm (0.04") respectively.
In terms of sunlight, June enjoys the most at 14 hours per day, with an average UV index of 7, while December has the least at 10.3 hours. The annual pressure variation is between 1001.4mb to 1024.5mb, while wind speed oscillates from 5.1km/h (3.2mph) to 6.9km/h (4.3mph).
The best time to visit Chongqing
Visiting
Chongqing in
April or
October offer optimal climatic conditions. During these periods, temperatures hover from 12.8°C (55°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F), and the rainfall averages between 25mm (0.98") to 50mm (1.97"). It presents the perfect balance, not too hot to roam around exploring the city and not too wet to hinder outdoor activities. The daylight hovers from 12 hours to 12.9 hours, providing ample time for city sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Chongqing
June and
July are the months to avoid if considering a visit to
Chongqing. The city experiences its highest rainfall, ranging from 87mm (3.43") to 109mm (4.29"), with as many as 15 to 17 rainy days. It is also rather humid in these months, with relative humidity averaging 72%, making it uncomfortable for tourist activities.
Spring weather in Chongqing
Spring, from
March to
May, brings milder temperatures, ranging from 12.3°C (54.1°F) to 27.9°C (82.2°F). The rain gradually picks up from March's 25mm (0.98") to
April's 50mm (1.97") before reaching a substantial 73mm (2.87") in May. These months present a good blend of temperature and just the right amount of rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Chongqing
Chongqing summers, from
June to
August, are hot and wet. The average high temperature ascends to 34.4°C (93.9°F) in August, while the average low settles between 22°C (71.6°F) to 25.4°C (77.7°F). Rainfall peaks in
July at 109mm (4.29"), resulting in quite a number of wet days. Despite the heat and humidity, the city amasses more daylight hours, reaching 14 hours in June.
Autumn weather in Chongqing
Autumn arrives in
Chongqing in
September and lasts until
November. Temperatures gradually dip from 28.5°C (83.3°F) to 17.8°C (64°F), and average lows from 21.3°C (70.3°F) to 12.7°C (54.9°F). Rainfall decreases remarkably from 62mm (2.44") in September and
October to 26mm (1.02") in November. Simultaneously, the daylight hours subside to 10.7 hours by November.
Winter weather in Chongqing
Winter in
Chongqing sees temperatures drop further, settling between 6.3°C (43.3°F) low in
December and a high of 13.3°C (55.9°F). Rainfall also takes a steep decline to a mere 7mm (0.28") in December. Snowfall, though minimal at 1mm (0.04") in December, does occur. These months also have the shortest daylight hours, from December's 10.3 hours dipping to 10 hours by
January.
Weather in January
This initial month of the year in
Chongqing,
China, experiences a meek winter. Though not as cold as more northern provinces,
January's Chongqing weather signals a freshness not found at other times of the year. This month brings the lowest recorded temperature in the range from 6.3°C (43.3°F) to 12.3°C (54.1°F), alongside negligible snowfall.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Weather in
Chongqing undergoes a subtle change in
February. The city begins to shake off the chill of
January, with temperatures starting to inch upwards, and the days noticeably lengthen. The amount of snowfall remains unchanged, but the city witnesses a slight increase in rainfall to 10mm (0.39").
Weather in February »Weather in March
March sees a marked change in the weather. With winter fading away, spring nudges its way into
Chongqing’s climate. A surge in rainfall to 25mm (0.98") over 10.8 days heralds the arrival of the spring rains. The days extend further, allowing more time for locals and tourists to relish the city's beauty.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings with it a distinctive transformation in the climate of
Chongqing. Spread out from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F), the temperatures reflect clear signs of an impending summer. The city receives a significant increase in rainfall at 50mm (1.97"), becoming a common sight.
Weather in April » Weather in May
In
May,
Chongqing steps into full-blown summer. The climate rises in both temperature and humidity, signally that the city is preparing for the upcoming rains. This month witnesses the highest frequency of rainfall, reported at 73mm (2.87") over 16.8 days.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June sees a continuation of the sultry temperatures with the advent of the hot season. The city is at its busiest, with a buzz that matches the climate. This time of the year, known for its high levels of relative humidity, reaches a peak of 72%.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The weather in
Chongqing reaches its zenith in
July. The increasingly hot days signify the peak of summer, with maximum temperatures hitting 33.6°C (92.5°F). The rainfall, although slightly less than previous months, is still a significant factor contributing to the city's tropical sensation.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August in
Chongqing is the pinnacle of summer. With temperatures reaching up to 34.4°C (93.9°F), this month records the highest temperature of the year. Despite the decrease in rainfall, the humidity doesn't let up, keeping the atmosphere steamy.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
September rolls in, the sweltering summer in
Chongqing begins to wane. Nevertheless, the warmth does not drop too quickly, still providing a substantial amount of heat. The rainfall, too, takes a dip, falling to 62mm (2.44") over 15.9 days.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October ushers in the soothing autumn climate, notorious for comfortable temperatures. The shift from sultry summers is apparent as the environment alters dramatically. The rainfall levels decrease to 52mm (2.05"). The city's natural beauty, from the rustling leaves of the trees to the beautifully lit cityscape, is indeed a sight to cherish.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
November, the weather in
Chongqing undergoes a significant shift as the city prepares for winter. The cooling is more noticeable with a distinct chill in the air. The rainfall also reduces to 26mm (1.02"), signaling the end of the wet season.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December ushers in winter in full swing in
Chongqing. The colder weather is in the air, but the temperatures remain gentle compared to northern provinces. With a negligible increase in snowfall and a decrease in rainfall to 7mm (0.28"), Chongqing takes on a quiet charm.
Weather in December »