Beijing, the capital city of China, experiences a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
The hottest month of the year in Beijing is July, with an average high of 88°F and a low of 73°F, making it the peak of summer.
Conversely, January is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping to an average low of 18°F and highs around 35°F. This stark contrast between summer and winter highlights Beijing’s diverse climate.
The climate in Beijing is influenced by its geographical position in the northern hemisphere, experiencing cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers.
During the cold season, which lasts from late November to late February, daily high temperatures typically remain below 45°F.
Travelers and residents alike can expect January to be particularly cold, with historical data showing temperatures dropping to around 7°F at night.
When planning a visit to Beijing, considering its climate throughout the year is essential.
For those who prefer milder weather, spring and autumn are ideal times.
In April and October, temperatures are pleasant, making it a great period for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The city is well-connected through major airports such as Beijing Capital International Airport and Tianjin Binhai International Airport, providing easy access for international travelers.
Average Temperature in Beijing, China
Beijing experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
The coldest month is January, with average low temperatures around 17°F and high temperatures reaching about 35°F.
In contrast, July, the hottest month, boasts an average high of 89°F and a low of 73°F.
January in Beijing registers average high temperatures of 1.8°C (35.2°F) and lows of -8.4°C (16.9°F). Meanwhile, July, the city’s warmest month, has temperatures that average around 27.3°C (81.1°F) (weather details).
Monthly Average Temperatures
| Month | Low Temp (°F) | High Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 16.9 | 35.2 |
| February | 21 | 41 |
| March | 32 | 56.3 |
| April | 46 | 69.8 |
| May | 57.2 | 79.5 |
| June | 66.2 | 86.5 |
| July | 73 | 89 |
| August | 72.5 | 87.8 |
| September | 61.2 | 78.8 |
| October | 46 | 65 |
| November | 32.5 | 48.6 |
| December | 19.4 | 37.4 |
Winter temperatures in Beijing often drop below freezing, specifically to around 7°F on the coldest nights.
During the summer, temperatures can rise significantly, offering true warmth in July and August.
The mean yearly temperature in Beijing is about 55°F.
Annual high and low temperatures provide a clear picture of the city’s varied climate. The average high throughout the year is around 55°F, while the average low can be as low as 17°F.
Beijing’s temperatures display stark contrasts, from the freezing winter nights to the hot summer days. This makes the city’s climate quite varied across different seasons.
Average Precipitation in Beijing, China
Beijing experiences diverse precipitation patterns throughout the year. Annual precipitation in Beijing is influenced by seasonal rain and occasional snow, with noticeable variations between the wettest and driest months.
Average Rainfall in Beijing, China
Rainfall in Beijing varies significantly with the seasons.
The city typically receives most of its annual rainfall during the summer months, mainly in July and August.
On average, Beijing gets about 566 mm (22.3 inches) of rain each year. July is the wettest month, receiving around 160 mm (6.3 inches) of rainfall.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 0.1 |
| February | 0.2 |
| March | 0.5 |
| April | 1.0 |
| May | 1.7 |
| June | 3.1 |
| July | 6.3 |
| August | 5.9 |
| September | 2.7 |
| October | 1.0 |
| November | 0.4 |
| December | 0.2 |
Average Snow in Beijing, China
Snowfall in Beijing is generally limited to the winter months.
The city gets mild snow, primarily in January and February.
The average annual snowfall in Beijing is about 10 inches, with January being the snowiest month.
| Month | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 3.5 |
| February | 2.5 |
| March | 1.0 |
| November | 1.0 |
| December | 2.0 |
Snowstorms are rare but can occasionally impact the city.
The arrival of snow often leads to beautiful scenery, although it tends to melt quickly due to low but not extreme temperatures.
For more detailed information about snow and how it impacts different areas, you can explore related topics about snow and ice.
Average Sun in Beijing, China
Beijing experiences significant variations in sunshine and daylight throughout the year. The city sees ample sun during the summer months and fewer daylight hours in winter.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Beijing, China
In Beijing, the average daily shortwave solar energy experiences changes throughout the year.
During the summer months, residents can expect longer daylight hours and increased sunshine, with peak sun energy occurring in June. The longest days provide over 14 hours of daylight.
| Month | Average Daylight Hours | Average Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 | 6 |
| June | 14.8 | 9 |
| December | 9.5 | 5 |
Winters bring shorter days with less sunshine, resulting in average daylight of roughly 9.5 hours in December.
January typically sees the least amount of daylight per day.
Summers offer more daily sunshine, with June averaging about 9 hours of sunshine.
These cycles of daylight and sunshine significantly impact daily life and outdoor activities.
Understanding the average daily shortwave solar energy helps in planning and maximizing time spent outdoors, particularly in the sunnier summer months.
Average Humidity in Beijing, China
Beijing experiences a range of humidity levels throughout the year. The city has a humid continental climate, leading to variations in relative humidity and dew point.
Monthly Average Humidity Levels:
| Month | Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 44 |
| February | 45 |
| March | 49 |
| April | 49 |
| May | 56 |
| June | 63 |
| July | 75 |
| August | 77 |
| September | 69 |
| October | 58 |
| November | 52 |
| December | 47 |
Winter Months:
During the winter, relative humidity often ranges from 44% to 49%. The air is drier, and the dew point is low, making the cold feel even sharper.
Summer Months:
Summer sees the highest humidity levels, particularly in July and August, with relative humidity peaking at 75% to 77%. The increased moisture in the air can make the temperatures feel warmer and muggy.
Transition Months:
Spring and autumn have moderate humidity levels, generally ranging from 49% to 69%. These months are typically more comfortable in terms of moisture in the air.
Dew Point:
The dew point varies through the year, closely aligning with the humidity levels.
Higher dew points in the summer signify more moisture in the air, while lower dew points in the winter indicate drier conditions.
Average Wind in Beijing, China
Wind patterns in Beijing vary throughout the year.
Monthly Wind Speed
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 5.4 |
| February | 5.3 |
| March | 6.0 |
| April | 6.5 |
| May | 5.9 |
| June | 5.3 |
| July | 4.8 |
| August | 4.9 |
| September | 5.0 |
| October | 5.0 |
| November | 5.1 |
| December | 5.3 |
March and April are often the windiest months in Beijing. Wind speeds peak around 6.0 to 6.5 mph.
Wind Direction
Most winds blow from the north or northwest. This pattern is especially noticeable during the winter months.
During summer, winds often shift to come from the south or southeast.
Impact on Weather
Wind can influence both temperature and air quality.
Higher wind speeds in spring can help clear out pollution, while summer winds often bring cooler air into the city.
Some spring months have strong wind patterns contributing to dust storms.
Understanding these wind patterns can be crucial for planning outdoor activities and addressing pollution concerns.
Average Air Quality in Beijing, China
Beijing’s air quality varies throughout the year. It is affected by factors such as weather conditions, pressure, and pollution.
Two main pollutants impact air quality: PM2.5 and PM10. These particles come from vehicles, factories, and other sources.
During certain months, smog and yellow dust from deserts worsen air quality. People with respiratory issues should be cautious during these times.
Monthly Air Quality Levels:
| Month | PM2.5 (µg/m³) | Air Quality Category |
|---|---|---|
| January | 55.4 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| February | 45.1 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| March | 40.7 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| April | 52.3 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| May | 37.8 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| June | 30.2 | Moderate |
| July | 27.3 | Moderate |
| August | 31.6 | Moderate |
| September | 32.4 | Moderate |
| October | 44.9 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| November | 47.2 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| December | 53.6 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Weather conditions like wind can improve visibility and reduce pollution by dispersing particles.
Pressure changes can also impact how pollutants accumulate. Higher pressure often leads to stagnant air, worsening pollution levels.
Smog is more common in colder months due to increased use of heating. Summer can see improvements with increased rainfall and winds dispersing pollutants.
For more detailed air quality information, visit Beijing Air Quality Index (AQI) and China Air Pollution | IQAir and Beijing Air Pollution: Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI).
Topography of Beijing, China
Beijing is situated in northern China, surrounded by mountains to the west, north, and northeast. These mountains protect the city from cold air masses from Siberia, contributing to its unique climate.
The city has an elevation of around 170 feet above sea level, which influences its humid continental climate. This climate type, classified as Dwa under the Köppen and Geiger system, results in hot summers and cold winters.
The terrain is predominantly flat, ideal for urban development. The flat central area is intersected by the Yongding, Chaobai, and Juma rivers, adding to the area’s complexity.
Elevation by Area
| Area | Elevation (feet) |
|---|---|
| Central Beijing | 170 |
| Western Mountains | 3,300 |
| Northern Mountains | 2,300 |
| Eastern Suburbs | 150 |
The mountains to the west and north consist of some of Beijing’s highest peaks:
- Mount Ling: around 3,300 feet
- Baihua Mountain: approximately 2,600 feet
These elevated areas contribute to the city’s varied topography. The mountain ranges help trap warm air in winter and block cold Siberian winds, reinforcing the severe temperature shifts typical of a humid continental climate.
Various districts in the city have different elevation and land features, providing a diverse topographical landscape: from flat urban spaces to hilly suburban areas. The varied terrain influences local weather patterns and urban planning decisions.
Such a topography aids in water drainage into the northeast when the rivers swell during the rainy season. This helps mitigate flooding risks, ensuring that both urban and rural areas maintain climate resilience.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur in Beijing, China
Beijing experiences a variety of extreme weather events throughout the year. This is due in part to its geographical location and the influence of monsoon circulation.
Heat Waves
During summer months, heat waves can be intense.
Temperatures often exceed 104°F, making it one of the hottest times of the year. For instance, Beijing faced one of its hottest summers on record in 2023.
Typhoons and Heavy Rainfall
Typhoons are a significant concern. In recent years, storms like Typhoon Doksuri have brought heavy rains and floods.
In July 2023, the remains of this typhoon caused record rainfall and significant flooding in Beijing.
Rainfall Extremes by Month:
| Month | Average Rainfall (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| July | 8.3 | Peak of monsoon season |
| August | 6.8 | Continuation of monsoon season |
Droughts
Beijing also faces droughts, especially during the dry season.
These droughts impact water supply and agriculture. The combination of flood and drought can be devastating for farmers, affecting their crops severely. More details about the impact on farming can be found here.
Impact on Daily Life
These extreme weather events disrupt daily life, causing evacuations and severe property damage.
Floods, heatwaves, and droughts bring challenges every year, underlining the importance of preparedness and adaptability for residents in Beijing.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Beijing, China
Beijing’s climate and weather vary significantly throughout the year. The best times to visit are typically in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, and the scenery is picturesque.
What Is Beijing, China Like in Spring
Spring in Beijing spans from March to May.
March can be a bit chilly with average high temperatures around 52°F and lows around 34°F.
April warms up to highs of about 68°F, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. By May, temperatures reach a comfortable 79°F with clear skies.
Tourists often find spring delightful due to the blooming flowers and fewer crowds compared to summer.
Spring bloom makes the parks and historical sites particularly beautiful. Though it’s generally dry, occasional dust storms might occur, so staying updated on the weather is advisable.
What Is Beijing, China Like in Summer
Summer in Beijing lasts from June through August and is characterized by high temperatures and humidity.
June begins with highs around 86°F, climbing to around 90°F in July, which is the hottest month. By August, temperatures slightly cool down to about 86°F again.
Summer in Beijing sees the highest tourist influx, leading to crowded attractions.
The high humidity, along with occasional rain showers, can make outdoor experiences less comfortable. Tourists should stay hydrated and use sun protection, especially when exploring famous sites like the Great Wall.
What Is Beijing, China Like in Fall
Fall, stretching from September to November, is another ideal time to visit Beijing.
The weather in September is enjoyable, with highs around 77°F and lows around 59°F.
October brings cooler temperatures ranging from 63°F during the day to about 45°F at night.
This season is marked by crisp air and clear skies, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor walks.
Fall foliage adds vibrant colors to Beijing’s landscapes. It’s also a period with fewer tourists compared to summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
What Is Beijing, China Like in Winter
Winter in Beijing, from December through February, is cold and dry.
December temperatures average between 37°F and 20°F. January is the coldest month, with highs around 34°F and lows around 16°F. February starts to warm slightly but remains chilly, with temperatures ranging between 40°F and 23°F.
Winter in Beijing is marked by minimal snowfall, so city sights are generally accessible. It’s a quieter time for tourists, allowing for more personal exploration without the crowds. Visitors should dress warmly, as the wind can make it feel even colder.
Each season offers unique experiences for visitors, with spring and fall generally being the most comfortable for traveling and sightseeing.