Climate and monthly weather forecast
Yan'an, China

Yan'an, a city nestled in the heart of the Shaanxi province in China, graces through four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Lying in Köppen's Dwa zone, Yan'an offers a humid continental climate that's offset by severe dry winter conditions, punctuated by a hot summer. Bodies of water nearby moderate the temperatures, influencing both the land and the air.

Daylight duration sees a gradual increase through the winter months, reaching its zenith in the summer months, and then slowly decreasing as autumn and winter set in. From 10 hours in January, the sunlight duration expands to 14.6 hours by the end of June before plunging to 9.7 hours in December.

The temperature chart throughout the year appears to be an inverted funnel with January temperatures dipping to between -11°C (12.2°F) to 2.2°C (36°F) and July showing the mercury soaring between 17.8°C (64°F) to 29.7°C (85.5°F), marking the coldest and hottest months respectively.

Rainfall against the year paints an interesting story. Starting with a mere 3mm (0.12") precipitation in January, it multiplies manifold reaching its pinnacle at 118mm (4.65") in August, after which it steadily declines to 3mm (0.12") by December again. An increase in rainfall is also witnessed with 2.2 rainy days in January escalating to 13.3 rainy days in July before again dwindling to 2.1 rainy days in December.

Unravelling the tapestry of weather data, the best time to appreciate Yan'an in all its glory would be during the milder climates of the year covering late spring, from May, through to the early autumn in September. During these months, temperatures remain favorable, oscillating between a well-balanced 10.6°C (51.1°F) to 28.2°C (82.8°F). This interval presents the best compromise, offering long daylight hours, the temperature being on the friendly side, and combined with a modest extent of rain, making it an appropriate period to step outdoors and explore the city.

Contrariwise, the least opportune time to venture to Yan'an, based on the collected weather evidence, would be during the harsh winter months between December on the one hand, and February on the other. In this time band, visitors might find themselves battling frigid conditions with temperature swirling between -11°C (12.2°F) all the way up to 5.6°C (42.1°F). Additionally, daylight hours are found to be lacking, adding to the list of reasons why travelling during winter months might not be the most desirable undertaking.

Spring in Yan'an is traced from March to May, spectators are welcomed by an array of pleasant mild conditions. As the mercury rises from -1°C (30.2°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F), the city witnesses longer daylight hours with up to 14.1 hours by May. Warmer conditions are complemented with nominal rainfall, 18mm (0.71") precipitation observed in March, amplifying to 42mm (1.65") by May. Together this makes spring an enjoyable season to explore Yan'an.

Summer sets the stage in Yan'an from June until August. Temperatures during this phase stretch between 14.9°C (58.8°F) and reach up to 29.7°C (85.5°F). Despite the heat, the city receives significant rainfall of up to 118mm (4.65") in August. Thus, while summer might be hot, the rainfall offers respite, instilling a refreshing vibe into the Yan'an environment.

Chasing the swell of summer months, Autumn finds its place in calendar from September to November. The season amuses with a noticeable shift in the environs. The temperatures lower, oscillating between 4.8°C (40.6°F) and 23.3°C (73.9°F). The rainfall also follows suit, starting at 68mm (2.68") in September, spiraling down to 14mm (0.55") in November. This transition to a cooler time paves the way towards the incoming winter.

December takes the baton to usher in Winter that lasts until February. The scenery turns chilly with temperatures plummeting to as low as -11°C (12.2°F), while only peaking at 5.6°C (42.1°F) in February. Daylight is also at its scarce, limiting the capacity to explore. Additionally, these months see the least precipitation, making the city's landscape drier. Thus, winter in Yan'an is characterized by a stark contrast to the city's lively ambiance during the other seasons.

January introduces impressive cold, defined by its lowest recorded temperatures, with highs of only 2.2°C (36°F) and severe lows down to -11°C (12.2°F). In Yan'an, the winter grips the city firmly into its icy hold. Thick clothing is mandatory to withstand the biting cold outdoors. Weather in January »

In February, Yan'an gradually begins to shake off the winter chill as temperatures begin to climb. Despite the gradual increase in warmth, one must not discard winter clothing as yet. An increase in daylight hours subtly hints at the transition from winter to spring drawing closer. Weather in February »

In March, Yan'an welcomes the spring season, characterized by a significant leap in temperatures, rising from 5.6°C (42.1°F) to 11.9°C (53.4°F). Sightseeing and local travel become increasingly appealing as the weather becomes milder and more accommodating. Weather in March »

April in Yan'an introduces a subtle warmth as the city proudly showcases its pleasant spring weather. The temperatures scale higher, paving the way for more comfortable outdoor activities. With increased daylight hours, the days tend to be longer, enabling more opportunities for sightseeing. Weather in April »

May brings with it the onset of summer in Yan'an. The city basks in the warmth, with temperatures reaching up to 25.3°C (77.5°F). Nevertheless, conditions remain ideal for exploring the outdoor offerings of the city. Increased rainfall levels contribute to the humidity but also bring about a refreshing change, enveloping Yan'an in a lush, green aura. An upsurge in temperatures occurs in Yan'an as April gives way to May, with average highs shifting from an agreeable 20.2°C (68.4°F) to a warm 25.3°C (77.5°F). Weather in May »

In June, Yan'an truly embraces summer, as temperatures soar to 28.7°C (83.7°F). The long sunny days, accompanied by increased humidity, define the weather trends in the city during this month. Despite the rising temperature, the rainfall levels also increase considerably, resulting in occasional showers which provide a much-needed respite from the heat. Yan'an in June observes a minor temperature shift, with average high-temperatures adjusting from a warm 25.3°C (77.5°F) in May to a still moderately hot 28.7°C (83.7°F). Weather in June »

July stands as the warmest month in Yan'an, with the mercury peaking at a high of 29.7°C (85.5°F). The city equips itself to endure the sweltering heat with an accompanying surge in humidity levels. Despite the heat, the daylight hours slightly decrease starting this month, presenting slightly shorter days. Weather in July »

During August, Yan'an experiences a slight dip in temperatures, dropping to 28.2°C (82.8°F) from July's record high. The reduced heat accompanied by a minor decrease in daylight hours indicates the approaching end of summer. August also experiences the year's highest levels of humidity, making the weather considerably muggy. Weather in August »

In September, Yan'an transitions from summer to autumn, with temperatures easing back to 23.3°C (73.9°F). The city experiences a moderate climate, making it a favorable time for outdoor activities and tourism. Marked by warmer days and cooler nights, September is a month of balance. Weather in September »

By October, Yan'an fully immerses itself in the autumn season, with temperatures further relaxing to a comfortable 17.6°C (63.7°F). The reduced humidity levels bring relief from the previous muggy conditions, introducing a dry and mild climate. Weather in October »

The arrival of November in Yan'an signals the beginning of the city's descent into winter, with average temperatures dropping down to 10.3°C (50.5°F). The noticeable change in weather becomes apparent as daylight and humidity levels start to drop. Weather in November »

December brings winter back in full force to Yan'an, with the mercury dipping down to a crisp 3.9°C (39°F). Winter coats and heavy clothing become essential as the city braces for another cycle of freezing temperatures. Despite the cold, the city retains its beauty under the winter sun, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to experience the winter chill in a picturesque setting. December shows a mild decline in the average high-temperature, falling from November's cool 10.3°C (50.5°F) to an icy 3.9°C (39°F). Weather in December »