Lanzhou Weather in May

Season: spring
 Lanzhou in May is mostly warm and sunny, making it perfect for sightseeing, but the weather is somewhat temperamental: a significant temperature difference exists between day and night, and sudden rain and floating dust may bother.
Average temperature: 11 - 24℃ (52 - 75℉)

The daytime temperature lies in 18 - 28 degrees Celsius (64.4 - 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit), suitable for outdoor activities, and nighttime value varies between 5 - 16℃ (41 - 60.8℉). With global climate change, the temperature in Lanzhou in May is showing an upward trend. For example, in 2023, there was only 1 day with a high temperature over 30℃ (86℉); in 2024, there were 2; while in 2025, the number reached 7.

Besides, it can be seen that the temperature varies greatly within a day, with a difference of 12 - 19℃ (21.6 - 34.2℉). It’s warm around noon, mainly after 10 - 11 am; on sunny days, it can be a bit hot under the sun. But when night falls, it gets cool, and someone sensitive to temperature changes may feel a bit cold.
 Short-term showers are more likely to occur in May. On average, they are distributed over 8 days, mostly in late month, bringing a total precipitation of 33 mm (1.3 in). Lanzhou may also experience sudden thunderstorms or hail in May, but they don’t last for a long time. 

With low rainfall, the humidity in Lanzhou in May is only 48%, which demonstrates a dry climate. The good point is that, sweat evaporates easily with the wind, keeping people comfortable.
 In May, the sky lights up before 6 am and doesn’t get dark until 8 pm. About 14 hours of daylight are available, providing enough time for tourists to travel around. Besides, sunny days make up half of the month, bringing abundant but strong sunshine. The average daily sunlight length is 8 hours. 
 In the past decade, floating dust weather has rarely appeared in May in Lanzhou, but earlier in March or April. However, in May 2025, there was unexpectedly floating dust for 3 times and blowing sand weather for one. Fortunately, they ended after 1 - 2 days. It’s possible that such special weather may happen in the following years in May. 

Strong winds are also possible, although rare. The maximum instantaneous wind force is close to level 9.
 Clothes: At sunny noon, T-shirt or thin blouse with jeans are good matches. Women can also wear a long-sleeve dress. But when the temperature drops after sunset, be sure to add a thin coat, especially when you appreciate the night view by the Yellow River, where wind often blows. If you plan to depart early in the morning, adopt the same match.

Shoes: A pair of lightweight sneakers or casual shoes can help keep your feet comfortable during a long walk.

Other necessities: Bring a parasol to resist UV rays and possible sudden rains. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also advised. A cap with a wide brim can not only block the sunshine but also resist dust and wind. Be sure to prepare some protective masks and windproof glass, both of which are necessary to deal with floating dust and willow catkins. What’s more, travelers who are easily allergic should prepare some allergy medicine.
 A short-term tourist peak appears from May 1 to 5, the May Day holiday. It’s advisable to set your arrival date after this period, actually. If you have to, book flight tickets and hotels early, as well as entrance tickets for hot attractions. For instance, the online tickets for Gansu Provincial Museum can be sold out within a few minutes, and it’s almost impossible to get a ticket on site during the holiday.

Besides, be prepared to queue up when visiting Sculpture of the Mother Yellow River, Waterwheel Garden, Bingling Temple, Zhengning Road Night Market, etc.. Particularly Zhongshan Bridge and White Pagoda Park may be crowded with tourists from morning till night, especially in the cool evening. You can depart as early as possible to try to avoid crowds. 

What’s more, considering the transportation condition can be poor, you need to leave enough time to shuttle between different scenic spots as well as to catch a train or flight.
 1. Due to low rainfall in Lanzhou and in upstream areas, the Yellow River does not flow rapidly in May, and you have the chance to experience relatively peaceful sheepskin rafting. It’s recommended to do that around sunset, when you can admire more charming scenes. Even though, hold your phone steadily when taking a photo. In the deeper water section, turbulent currents may still splash clothes, so do not shake casually and wear a raincoat in advance.
2. If feeling a little hot under the sun, take a temporary rest in a cool place, for example, the space under the Zhongshan Bridge, where the breeze often blows. Your kids can also have fun digging sand like many local children do. Just pay attention to safety, and prepare a pair of wading shoes for them.
3. It is best not to go out during strong winds and thunderstorms, or arrange some indoor attractions. The same is to dusty weather.