Climate and monthly weather forecast
Panzhihua, China

Possessing a distinctive seasonal ambiance, Panzhihua, China is placed within the Humid subtropical dry winter zone according to the Köppen climate classification. This climate, denoted as Cwa, is typically expressed with high temperatures all year round, with a noted absence of cold winters. Instead, the weather conditions shift more towards humidity and heat.

Through a year-long cycle, Panzhihua manifests temperature values oscillating between the margins of a cool 6.9°C (44.4°F) and a warm 32.3°C (90.1°F). Rainfall is considerably varied too, ranging from a minimal 2mm (0.08") in December to an impressive 210mm (8.27") in August, representing the fluctuating nature of precipitation across different periods. On average, the number of days with rainfall in Panzhihua also exhibits a range from 1.3 days to 19.2 days, underscoring the unpredictable nature of rainfall patterns.

Daylight hours signify a diverse pattern as well, offering from 10.5 hours to 13.8 hours of sunlight in a day. This variation gives the city its distinctive seasonal feel, although the overall climate remains subtropical. The most prominent pattern, however, is observed in the rainfall rate, where a predominantly dry winter is counteracted by high rainfall during the summer months, a characteristic trait of the Cwa climate type.

Given the unique climatic patterns and weather conditions, the ideal time for a visit to Panzhihua often coincides with the dry season. This spans from December to March when the city records the lowest rainfall levels, with values barely exceeding 12mm (0.47") and a relatively lower number of rainy days, below 3.3 days on average.

During this period, the average high temperatures range from 21.8°C (71.2°F) to 31.7°C (89.1°F), making it ideal for outdoor pursuits and sightseeing. Furthermore, with daylight hours stretching to a comfortable 11.3 to 12.8 hours, there is ample daylight time to explore the cityscape.

The period of the year to avoid while planning a visit to Panzhihua usually matches with the monsoon season. This typically encompasses the months from May to September, characterized by heavy rainfall in the ranges of 133mm (5.24") to 210mm (8.27") and an increased number of rainy days, between 13.8 days and 19.2 days on average.

Despite the temperatures remaining pleasant between 30.6°C (87.1°F) and 32.3°C (90.1°F), the excessive rain might render outdoor activities less enjoyable. The incessant rain often results in high humidity, which can make sightseeing uncomfortable.

Spring in Panzhihua ushers in a phase of mild temperatures and increasing daylight hours. Starting in March and proceeding until May, the average high temperatures move from 28.6°C (83.5°F) to 32.3°C (90.1°F), with low temperatures rising progressively from 14.2°C (57.6°F) to 19.8°C (67.6°F).

The city witnesses a significant increase in rainfall during these months, with precipitation figures moving from 10mm (0.39") in March to a substantial 45mm (1.77") in May. However, with an average daylight duration extending between 12 hours and 13.5 hours, the conditions remain ideal for outdoor activities despite the rise in precipitation.

The period from June to August sees Panzhihua encounter its monsoon season, leading to a surge in both temperature and rainfall indices. Average high temperatures fluctuate slightly between 32.2°C (90°F) in June and 30.6°C (87.1°F) in August, while low temperatures show insignificant changes, remaining almost constant around 21.1°C (70°F) to 21.3°C (70.3°F).

Rainfall levels peak during these months, with values soaring to 133mm (5.24") in June and further escalating to 210mm (8.27") in August, which marks the wettest month of the year.

Autumn in Panzhihua from September to November witnesses a gradual reduction in both temperature and rainfall. Temperatures subside from an average high of 28.1°C (82.6°F) in September to 23.4°C (74.1°F) by November. Concurrently, the rainfall also exhibits a downward trend, with September's 141mm (5.55") precipitate decreasing considerably to 21mm (0.83") in November.

Winter in Panzhihua is predominantly dry, characterized by the lowest temperatures and rainfall levels of the year. Stretching across December to February, the average high temperatures steadily rise from 21°C (69.8°F) in December to 24.8°C (76.6°F) in February.

Contrarily, low temperatures vary from 6.9°C (44.4°F) in December to 9.9°C (49.8°F) in February. With the rainfall metrics consistently under 12mm (0.47") and the number of rainy days kept exceedingly low, the overall winter period can be considered comfortably dry when compared to the other seasons.

January signals the start of the year in Panzhihua, with frosty mornings that eventually give way to warmer afternoons. Temperatures fluctuate from 6.9°C (44.4°F) to 21.8°C (71.2°F), often leaving an air of freshness around the city. Weather in January »

As February arrives, a subtle transition in weather patterns can be observed. The mornings become less frosty, and the afternoons grow warmer, hinting at the approaching spring. Rainfall remains limited to moderate levels, and the city continues to experience longer sunlight hours compared to January. Weather in February »

March marks the onset of spring in Panzhihua, bringing with it varying temperatures and longer days filled with sunlight. The temperature starts to climb, creating a pleasant balance between the cool mornings and warmer afternoons. Weather in March »

Entering into April, Panzhihua experiences a significant change in its weather. Although the progression from cool to warmer conditions continues, the city encounters substantial rainfall of 12mm (0.47") when compared to previous months. Weather in April »

May ushers in a more pronounced summer-like weather in Panzhihua. The heat becomes more prevalent while the rainfall pattern changes significantly. A sharp increase in both high and low temperatures further signifies the arrival of summer. Weather in May »

June brings the peak of summer to Panzhihua, marked by soaring temperatures and significant rainfall. With temperature extremes lying between 21.4°C (70.5°F) and 32.2°C (90°F), the heat can be intense. A progressive increase in rainfall relieves some of the heat, creating a moist yet rightly warm environment. Weather in June »

In July, the weather in Panzhihua follows trends observed in the preceding month of June. Although temperatures are still remarkably high, rainfall marks the peak at 207mm (8.15"). The increased precipitation adds to the humidity, yet aids in balancing the temperature extremes of the month. Weather in July »

August retains the summer weather attributes displayed in July. The high temperature, coupled with rainfall exceeding 200mm (7.87"), continues to dominate the weather scene. However, a slight dip in temperature can be observed, signalling the preparation for the transition to cooler weather. Weather in August »

September signals the beginning of the end of summer in Panzhihua. While temperatures remain high, a notable decrease in rainfall to 141mm (5.55") marks the gradual progression towards fall. Despite the decrease in temperature and rainfall, the weather remains relatively warm yet less humid. Weather in September »

With the arrival of October, Panzhihua gradually experiences cooler weather. Temperatures keep dropping, and rainfall continues to decrease, providing a refreshing break from the summer heat. As the rainfall reduces significantly to 61mm (2.4"), the city becomes less humid and dry. Weather in October »

November brings about a significant drop in temperature and rainfall in Panzhihua. Compared to previous months, the rainfall decreases notably to 21mm (0.83"). With colder mornings and shorter days, the city starts its journey into the winter season. Weather in November »

December marks the arrival of winter in Panzhihua with a significant drop in temperatures. The lower temperature and the minimum rainfall of 2mm (0.08") make this month typically cold and dry. Despite the low temperature, the overall climate remains comfortable during daylight hours. Weather in December »