Lanzhou Weather in August

Season: summer
In short: hot daytime and cool evening, frequent showers, high UV index
Average temperature: 16 - 28℃ (61 - 82℉)

The weather of Lanzhou is hot during the sunny daytime in August, with the temperature often being 30 - 33 degrees Celsius (86 - 91.4 degrees Fahrenheit). But the extremely high temperature weather is seldom seen. In 2025, there was only 1 day with a high temperature of over 35℃ (95℉). In the evening, it cools down with the temperature remaining at 14 - 22℃ (57.2 - 71.6℉), particularly along the Yellow River with gentle breeze. 

Besides the day-night difference, the temperature can be affected by rainfall. On rainy days, the high temperature fluctuates between 19 - 22℃ (66.2 - 71.6℉), and the low value is about 10 - 19℃ (50 - 66.2℉), cool in the day and a little cold at night.
 Lanzhou’s rainfall concentrates in August. The average precipitation this month is about 74 mm (2.91 in), from 8 - 12 rainy days, accounting for 20% - 25% of the annual amount. The rainfall is often seen in the afternoon to evening from15:00 - 20:00 in the form of showers, which last for 3 hours at most. The second half of the month sees more precipitation than the first. On the whole, it rarely experiences 3 or more continuous rainy days. 

Thunderstorms come to bother occasionally, accompanied by heavy winds. But it often leaves in about 2 hours. Rainbows are likely to appear after rain due to clear air, which has become a symbol of Lanzhou’s climate in August.

Affected by the rainfall, the humidity increases this month, with an average of 63%, demonstrating a little humid air.

After continuous rainfall, light fog may appear in the early morning, at about 5 am - 7 am, mostly along the Yellow River, such as near Zhongshan Bridge. But it quickly dissipates as the temperature rises after around 8 am.
 Although there are many rainy days, the rainfall doesn’t last for a long time, and it gets sunny quickly. Therefore, Lanzhou also get rich sunshine in August on the whole, and the UV index is also high during the sunny time. 

Daylight starts at 6:11 - 6:35 and ends at 19:33 - 20:09, spanning about 13 hours on average, which is enough for a day trip.
 In early morning & evening: Short shirt and light pants, with a thin coat as the outer layer to keep warm. A pair of light casual shoes is useful for a long day tour. 

At noon and in the afternoon: Take off the coat and put on the sun protective items including sunhat, sunglasses, etc. Shorts and dresses are acceptable only during the hottest part of the day.

On rainy conditions: Change the short shirt into a long-sleeve one, or add a hoodie. It’s also advisable to wear a short trenchcoat or windbreaker in dropping temperatures. As for shoes, sandals and water shoes can easily get dry once they are splashed. Rain gear is needed: either a raincoat or an umbrella is ok.
 1. Coming to Lanzhou in August 2026, you have the chance to taste all sorts of fresh local fruits, such as honeydew melon, watermelon, peach, plum, grape, and fig. Abundant sunshine and big day-night temperature difference make them especially sweet.

2. A lot of people, mainly domestic travelers come to Lanzhou to spend their summer holiday in August, making it a busy month. So, you are advised to buy flight/ train tickets and reserve hotel and attractions early. Besides, it’s not unusual to see the hot attractions, especially Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Park, the Statue of Mother Yellow River, Waterwheel Garden, Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street, and Bingling Temple, are full of visitors. 

3. Experiencing sheepskin rafting on the Yellow River in the rainiest season is only advised for those adventurers. By then, the water level rises, and the water flows quickly, offering more thrills. For other people, if you want to have a try, choose a peaceful sunny day, when both the wind and waves are not strong.

4. Check the weather conditions often. If it suddenly rains when you are traveling around, don’t be upset, and run for shelter for a while. It usually ends soon.

5. It is recommended to avoid or reduce outdoor activities during the high temperature period around noon. If you have to, seek some shade to avoid the heat temporarily or choose some indoor spots, such as Gansu Provincial Museum, to spend the hottest period. 

6. Cool evenings offer more travel choices. You can appreciate the charming night scene along the Yellow River while enjoying tea in the gentle breeze like locals. At Zhengning Road Night Market, you can try all sorts of local food.