Yangtze River Weather

The weather in different reaches of the mighty Yangtze River, which spans over 6,300 kilometers (3,915 miles) long from Qinghai in northwest China to Shanghai in East China is quite different. However, when it comes to Yangtze River tour, 99% of travelers opt for the popular Yangtze River cruise between Chongqing and Yichang, where the most scenic part of Yangtze River - Three Gorges and the magic Three Gorges Dam are located. Therefore, this article focuses on the weather of Yangtze River section between Chongqing and Yichang, providing a reference for travelers worldwide to better plan their Yangtze River trip.

This Yangtze River section has a humid subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by cold and foggy winter from December to February; hot, humid, and rainy summer from June to August; and mild spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. 

Qutang Gorge of Yangtze River

 The annual temperature difference along the Yangtze River is relatively large. Low temperatures typically range from 0-10℃ (32-50℉). With frequent winds on the river, people always feel several degrees colder than in urban areas. High temperatures can reach 40℃ (104℉) and evaporation from the river intensifies the muggy feeling. Daily temperature differences are also significant, especially in spring and autumn, with the differences ranging 10-15℃ (50-59℉). 
The hottest months along the Yangtze River are July and August, which also coincide with the rainy season, resulting in high humidity and hence sicky and muggy feelings. Extreme temperatures in Chongqing’s urban areas soar up to 40°C (104℉), with minimal day-night temperature fluctuations. Even at night the sensible temperatures are around 30°C (86℉). It is challenging to stay long on the deck of the Yangtze River cruise ship to admire the scenery. You may easily be attacked by sunstroke. 

Burning Yangtze Cruise Ship Deck in Summer

 January is the coldest month along the Yangtze River, but it is not bitterly cold except along the upper reaches in northwest China. Along the section from Chongqing to Yichang, daytime highs typically reach 7-15°C (44.6-59℉) in January, while nighttime temperatures can drop below 0°C (32℉) in Chongqing’s suburban counties, such as the Wushan where the cruise ship passes by, and some mountainous areas upstream of Yichang. A damp, cold wind blowing off the river, combined with high humidity, leaves passengers feeling chill on the deck of the ship. 
 The areas along the Yangtze River, especially those along the middle and lower reaches, receive abundant rainfall. Nearly half falls between June and August, the summer flood season. Monthly precipitation in Yichang can reach 300 mm this time. Frequent, short bursts of heavy rain cause rapid river level rises. October to April is the dry season. In winter from December to February, precipitation is less than 100 mm in total in most areas, with light rain as the norm. Snow is not common and occurs mostly in mountainous areas or at high altitudes, such as the Three Gorges Summit, an excursion of the cruise tour. 
 Humidity is high year-round, reaching as high as 90% in summer. March and April experience the 
Hui Nan Tian, a humid weather phenomenon caused by the meeting of cold and warm air currents, which brings unbearable dampness. While humidity decreases in winter, it is not dry at all.

Yangtze River in Flood Season

 Many tourists are disappointed by the dense fog over the Yangtze River, which veils the scenery. Avoiding fog is as vital as escaping from rainfall to appreciate the Three Gorges clearly. Chongqing and its surrounding counties, as the main waterway of Yangtze River cruise, experience approximately 100 foggy days annually which are mostly in winter and early spring, especially in the early mornings when temperatures are lower. Yichang, the final destination of the Yangtze River cruise, experiences the most foggy days from late autumn to winter, second to early spring. Rainfall in other seasons may also cause foggy weather. Usually on clear days, the fog is easily dispelled after the sun rises high. However, during continuous rain, the entire river and mountains become shrouded in mist, cloaking much of the view. Therefore, visitors are advised to check the weather forecast in advance. 

Fog of Yangtze River in Late Autumn

 The two periods, respectively in spring and autumn, offer mild weather with few extremes, averaging around 20°C (68℉), and minimal rainfall. Spring brings a gentle river breeze, perfect for long stay on cruise ship deck admiring the scenery or disembarking to explore scenic spots along the Yangtze River. Besides, the vegetation along the Three Gorges erupts in vibrant colors and the river is green on most days. In autumn, the biggest highlight is of course the colorful foliage. Understandably, they are the peak seasons with high prices and the cruise ships fill up very fast.

Three Gorges Dam in Yichang

 

 In spring, the harsh cold weather fades and temperatures generally rise to 10-25°C (50-77℉) with fluctuations. There may be frequent alternations of cold and warm air. The once gloomy and gray mountains along the Three Gorges turn green, flowers begin to bloom and the plum flowers in Wu Mountains are the most famous. The spring rain is mild and the river breeze is gentle. At the end of May, you may feel a little bit hot but it is tolerable. 

Yangtze River in Spring

  What to Wear: A Cardigan and a jacket or a trench coat work for March and April. A long-sleeve shirt and a thin jacket are enough for May. Do pack a raincoat or a packable umbrella even if the forecast has promised clear days. Comfortable sneakers are a must to climb up the stairs to the high observation decks.

  Travel Recommendation
The best way to explore the Yangtze River and inland China is by taking a cruise. April is the peak time for a Yangtze River cruise. The beautiful spring scenery along the banks and the magnificent Yangtze River won’t let you down.

  Travel Tip
Qingming Festival Holiday usually from April 3 to 6 and May Day Holiday from May 1 to 5 should be avoided due to larger tourist flows and higher prices for everything.
 The heat wave with extreme highs of 40°C (104℉) and frequent downpours lead to the unbearable high temperatures and high humidity. Although with abundant rainfall, clear hours are many because the rainfall in many times is brief showers. The sceneries of the Three Gorges are attractive: the vegetation along the river is dense, with lush green hills on both sides and the river flows vigorously. Lucky tourists may have the chance to witness the spectacular sight of the Three Gorges Dam releasing water in these summer months. 

Flood Discharging of the Three Gorges Dam in Summer

  What to Wear: Pack your coolest and sun-protective clothes, a sun hat and sunglasses. A raincoat is also recommended as it would be hard to hold an umbrella in intense rain. 

  Travel Recommendation
During the Dragon Boat Festival which falls in late May or June, various places along the Yangtze River, such as Zhongxian County in Chongqing and Zigui County in Yichang, host dragon boat races. The festive atmosphere is vibrant, with various folk activities like making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and embroidering sachets. You can cheer for the dragon boat racers from the banks of the Yangtze River.
 Autumn is basically crisp and pleasant and more clear days and less rainfall are anticipated. As time advances, temperatures see steady declines. The maximum temperatures steadily decrease from around 30°C (86℉) in September to 15°C (59℉) in November. In early September, the remaining summer heat may lead to a little hot middays while in November, you may feel a little bit chilly in early mornings and evenings. 

  What to Wear: You need clothes of different thickness in this season. A wind coat or a leather jacket works for most of days. A long-sleeve shirt and a cardigan are the best inner layers for September and October respectively. While in November, you may need a wool coat or a light down coat.

  Travel Recommendation
You definitely cannot miss the vibrant autumn scenery of the Three Gorges. If you want to experience the autumn scenery in-depth, hiking to the Three Gorges Summit in Fengjie County, Chongqing is the best choice. In addition to the autumn scenery, you can also see the mighty Yangtze River flowing through the magnificent Qutang Gorge.

  Travel Advice
Try to avoid Mid-autumn Festival and National Day Holiday when attractions are super crowded and prices of cruise tours soar up.
 In winter, low temperatures are 5 - 10°C (41 - 59℉). It seems bearable but you may feel freezing on cruise deck as the river breeze, laden with icy vapor, can be damp and bone-chilling. Fog is frequent. Precipitation is primarily light rain with rare frost and snow. Mountains along the Three Gorges may be dotted with snow. Fog and mist often linger over the river and mountains, creating a unique natural scene. 

Three Gorges Dam on a Cloudy Day in Winter

  What to Wear: Remember to bundle up! Thermal layers are the top things to pack. A down coat is a must on the deck. Warm boots are recommended. Scarfs, gloves and warm hats are musts.

  Travel Recommendation
During the Chinese New Year which always in late January and February, Chongqing city offers lively New Year celebrations, such as the lantern festival in Ciqikou Ancient Town and the temple fair in Danzishi Old Street. If you plan to take a Yangtze River cruise around the Spring Festival, you might as well spend a day before boarding the cruise ship to experience the Spring Festival atmosphere.