August maintains the hot temperature from
July but brings with it the highest recorded rainfall of 214mm (8.43"). The city experiences the longest hours of daylight, making it perfect for sightseeing. Despite the rain,
Shanghai in August is a vibrant place, filled with color and life. The high sea temperature makes it a good time for beach outings and water activities while the city itself offers a multitude of indoor activities for rainy days.
Temperature
Shanghai experiences an average high-temperature of a still tropical 31.5°C (88.7°F) in August, marking an insignificant shift from 32.2°C (90°F) in July. Throughout August, the temperature falls to an average low of 25.8°C (78.4°F).
Heat index
During August, the heat index is calculated to be a scorching 42°C (107.6°F). More preventive actions are needed, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is significant. Prolonged activity may trigger heatstroke.
Records show heat index calculations are tailored for shaded regions and mild winds. A rise in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees may result from direct sunlight exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'apparent temperature', is a measure of how hot it feels when the actual air humidity is factored in. This effect tends to be personal, with the weather perception differing among individuals due to variations in body mass, height, and exertion. Take note that direct exposure to the sun can increase the felt temperature, possibly adding 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values hold great significance to children. Kids are generally in more danger than adults because they perspire less. Their large skin surface area compared to their small bodies and the excessive heat due to their actions raises their risk.
For the human body, perspiration is the go-to method to regulate temperature, using sweat's evaporation to dissipate warmth. Under high air temperature coupled with high humidity (high heat index), the body's perspiration is reduced, intensifying the sensation of heat. Heat-related complications, like dehydration, can manifest if the body's heat gain exceeds its dissipation capacity.
Humidity
In Shanghai, the average relative humidity in August is 78%.
Rainfall
The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 12.3 days and typically aggregates up to 214mm (8.43") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 27°C (80.6°F).
Note: Water temperatures ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are regarded as very warm, making swimming, diving, and similar water activities pleasurable for extended periods.
Daylight
The average length of the day in August in Shanghai is 13h and 16min.
On the first day of August, sunrise is at 05:11 and sunset at 18:49. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:29 and sunset at 18:19 CST.
Sunshine
In August, the average sunshine is 6h.
UV index
June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 11, are months with the highest UV index in Shanghai. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an extreme threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: The maximum daily UV index of 11 in August converts into the following recommendations:
Put into effect every precaution of importance, unprotected skin and eyes may get burns swiftly. The Sun's UV radiation is most powerful between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To the extent possible, limit exposure to the direct sun during these hours. To cut down UV radiation exposure by about half, sport a wide-brim hat. After a swim or outdoor exercise, one should liberally reapply broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher. Be on guard! The reflective nature of sand and water boosts UV exposure.