Lanzhou Weather in April

Season: spring
In short: moderate temperature, big day-night temperature difference, lowest humidity of the year, windy, dusty
 Average temperature: 6 - 19℃ (43 - 66℉)

The temperature in April is mild, promoting the blooming of various flowers. The high value usually fluctuates between 14 – 28 degrees Celsius (57.2 – 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit), while the low value is around 0 – 11℃ (32 – 51.8℉). It can be seen that the temperature difference between day and night is huge, reaching over 10℃ (18℉) and sometimes 17℃ (30.6℉), which is particularly obvious on sunny days. So, you will feel warm at noon but a little cold in the early morning and after sunset. 

A sudden temperature drop is possible, but not frequent. The high temperature may decrease from above 25 ℃ (77℉) one day to below 15℃ (59℉) the next.
There are only 3 - 7 rainy days in April, with a total rainfall of about 15 mm (0.59 in). In most cases, they are intermittent light rain, while moderate rain occasionally occurs.

Rare rain contributes to dry air, with a humidity of 44%, the lowest in the year.
 Visiting Lanzhou in April, 2026, you are likely to encounter some dusty weather. In 2025, a total of 11 days saw floating dust permeating the air. By then, the air quality becomes very poor. When it’s not severe, you may not see the dust, but you will feel that you breathe in some. This climatic phenomenon generally spans for a maximum of 5 days and a minimum of 1 day. 

Strong winds are one of the main causes of floating dust, averaging force 4 - 5 and approaching force 8 sometimes.
 Statistically, Lanzhou bathes in sunshine for 8 hours a day on average in April, but dusty weather significantly reduces effective sunlight. Besides, even though there are not many rainy days, cloudy days exist. As a result, the actual sunlight is about 30% less than the theoretical data. But once the sky clears up, the UV index can be high. 

The sun usually rises at 6:30 - 7:10, and sets at 19:48 - 20:15, bringing a long daylight of 13 hours.
 Up: Hoodie and thin knitwear are selectable. In the cool morning and evening, put on a windbreaker; the piece with a removable layer would be better, which can be adjusted according to your perceived temperatures.

Bottom: Single sweatpants or jeans are enough in the daytime. If you go out after sunset, add long johns, particularly when it’s windy.

Shoes: Casual shoes can be your choice. If you are worried about dusty weather, prepare a pair of lightweight leather boots to protect against wind and dust. 

Other items: 
(1) In this month with a high incidence of colds and influenza virus, masks are necessary. They also work for pollens and dust. Meanwhile, bring some common medicines such as those for cold, cough, and allergy.
(2) Pack some sun protection items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Parasol is not advised, as strong winds may occur anytime and anywhere.
(3) It’s advised to carry a lipstick, hand cream, and moisturizing face cream to deal with the dry climate in Lanzhou in April. If possible, prepare a simple humidifier in your room.
 1. Blooming flowers are extra rewards during your Lanzhou trip in April. In the first half of this month, you can admire winter jasmine in Five Springs Park and White Pagoda Park, where almond blossoms and cherry blossoms can also be seen. Lilacs, peach blossoms, and peonies are in full bloom in Lanzhou Botanical Garden, White Pagoda Park, and Xiaoxihu Park in mid to late April.

2. Check the weather forecast again one or two days before departure from your place, and focus on warning information about high winds, floating dust, and significant temperature drops.

3. Cancel or reduce outdoor activities on dusty days for the sake of health. 

4. Considering the lower temperature in the early morning and at night, there is no need to set off too early. Also, go back to the hotel early when night falls.

5. The indoor heating stops service this month. If you feel cold when sleeping at night, use the air conditioning to warm up.

6. Drink water often to decrease the influence of the dry air on your body.