Yangtze River Weather

The Yangtze River, originating in Qinghai, flows through 11 provinces and municipalities before finally emptying into the East China Sea in Shanghai, making it China’s golden waterway. Since the Yangtze River cuts through a considerable portion of China, it’s challenging to summarize the weather across such a vast region, even in the simplest terms. However, when it comes to exploring the Yangtze River, 99% of travelers opt for the popular Yangtze River Chongqing-Yichang cruise, offering a close-up glimpse into inland China. Therefore, this article focuses on the weather of Yangtze River section from Chongqing to Yichang passing through surrounding counties of Chongqing and the Three Gorges, providing a reference for travelers worldwide to better plan their itineraries.

The Yangtze River Basin of Chongqing – Yichang section has a humid subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by cool and foggy winters, hot, humid, and rainy summers, and mild spring and autumn. While winter (December – February) daily low temperatures are 5 - 10°C (41 - 59℉), you may feel freezing on cruise deck. Fog is frequent. Precipitation is primarily light rain with rare frost and snow. In spring (March-May), temperatures gradually rise to between 10 - 25°C (50 - 77℉). Summer (June to August) temperatures can reach extreme highs of 40°C (104℉), with frequent short-term downpours. Autumn (September-November) sees a steady decline in temperatures and rainfall is always accompanied by a drop in temperature.

Qutang Gorge of Yangtze River

 Winter is relatively moderate, with average temperatures in a range of 3 - 10°C (37 - 50℉). Drops below 0°C (℉) are rare in downtown areas. Low temperatures around freezing are possible in valleys and gorges but won’t be sustained. Spring sees rapid temperature rises, with average temperatures rising from around 10°C (50℉) in March to 15 - 25°C (59 - 77℉) in May. There are frequent alternations of cold and warm air, resulting in significant temperature fluctuations. Summer, dominated by subtropical high pressure, is characterized by long-term high temperatures and high humidity. The high extremes would exceed 40°C (104℉). Chongqing, as the gateway of Yangtze River cruise, is known as one of the “Four Ovens” in China. Autumn sees a gradual drop in temperatures. The maximum temperatures steadily decrease from around 30°C (86℉) in September to 15°C (59℉) in November. The weather is mostly sunny and comfortable.
 The hottest months along the Yangtze River between Chongqing and Yichang are July and August, which also coincide with the rainy season, resulting in high temperatures and high humidity. Extreme temperatures in Chongqing’s main urban areas and parts of Yichang along the river soar up to 40°C, with minimal day-night temperature fluctuations. Even at night the sensible temperatures are around 30°C. While rain is frequent, it doesn’t last long, thus sunshine duration is longer. The river’s surface is often scorched by the blazing sun and the heat is even more intense on cruise ship decks, making it impossible to be exposed in sunlight for extended periods. Travelers may easily be attacked by sunburn.

Burning Yangtze Cruise Ship Deck in Summer

 January is the coldest month along the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Yichang. Average temperatures in January fluctuate from 2°C (36℉) to 8°C (46℉) and daytime highs typically reach 7°C (℉) to 15°C (℉). Nighttime temperatures can drop below 0°C (32℉) in Chongqing’s suburban counties, such as the Wushan where the cruise ship passes, and some mountainous areas upstream of Yichang. A damp, cold wind blowing off the river, combined with high humidity, leaves passengers feeling a biting chill on the deck. Mountains are always surrounded by fog in this month.
 The riverside area from Chongqing to Yichang receives abundant rainfall. Nearly half falls between June and August, the summer flood season. Monthly precipitation in Yichang can reach 300 mm in summer. 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, with light rain, cloudy skies, and fog 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.

Yangtze River in Flood Season

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, the river’s surface is still moist due the wet air.
 Many tourists are disappointed by the dense fog over the Yangtze River, which obscures their views. Avoiding fog is as vital as escaping from rainfall to appreciate the Three Gorges. Chongqing and its surrounding counties, as the main waterway of Yangtze River cruise, experience approximately 100 foggy days annually which are most common in winter and early spring, especially in the early mornings when temperatures are lower, thus getting its nickname Fog City. Yichang, the final destination, experiences the most foggy days from late autumn to winter, second to early spring. Rainfall in other seasons may also cause foggy days. Of course, on clear days, the fog is easily dispelled by sunshine, presenting little visual impact. However, during continuous rain, the entire river and mountains become shrouded in mist, cloaking much of the view. Therefore, visitors are advised to avoid late autumn and winter. If planning to enjoy the autumn scenery, try to avoid continuous rainy days at least.

Fog of Yangtze River in Late Autumn

 The two seasons offer mild weather with few extremes and minimal rainfall, averaging around 20°C (68℉). Spring brings a gentle river breeze, perfect for long days spent on deck admiring the scenery or disembarking to explore scenic spots along the way. The vegetation along the Three Gorges erupts in vibrant colors and the river is green on most days. Understandably, they are the peak seasons with high prices and the cruise ships fill up very fast.

Three Gorges Dam in Yichang

 The periods, before and after the typical peak seasons, persuade travelers with their best prices and still beautiful sceneries. The views in late March are a little less impressive than in the peak seasons, while June and November have their own charm. The weather may be a little chilly in mornings and evenings in late March but totally bearable. Three Gorges in early June reserves its beauty but hasn’t welcomed the scorching heat. In November, the red leaves are more fervent and brighter than in October. For travelers who care more about cost performance and hate crowds, the cruise is much cheaper with fewer travelers and your shots won’t be block by tourists on the deck and observation platforms.

Yangtze River in Early Summer

 

 In spring, the harsh cold weather fades along the banks of the Three Gorges, the once dark and gray mountains turn green, and trees begin to flower 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 won’t last long and is tolerable. 

Yangtze River in Spring

  What to Wear: A Cardigan and a jacket or a wind coat work for March and April. A long-sleeve shirt and a thin jacket are enough for May. Ensure to 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 observation decks.

  Holidays to Avoid
Qingming Festival Holiday usually from April 3 to 6 & May Day Holiday from May 1 to 5.
 The heat wave and heavy rainfall cause the unbearable high temperatures and high humidity. Although with abundant rainfall, clear hours are many following the showers. The sceneries of the Three Gorges are attractive on hot sunny days: the vegetation along the river is dense, with lush green hills on both sides. The river is abundant, and the Qutang Gorge is full of water. Lucky tourists may be able to witness the spectacular sight of the Three Gorges Dam releasing water in July and August.

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. 

  Holidays to Avoid: Dragon Boat Festival in late May or June
 As the peak tourism season, autumn is basically crisp and pleasant and more clear days and less rainfall are anticipated. In early September, the remaining summer heat may lead to hot middays but the temperatures barely rise up to 30℃. In November, you may feel a little bit chilly in mornings and evenings in late autumn. 

  What to Wear: You need adaptable clothing 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.

  Holidays to Avoid: Mid-autumn Festival and National Day Holiday
 January is the coldest month of winter. Even though temperatures rarely drop below freezing, the river breeze, laden with icy vapor, can be unbearably damp and bone-chilling. Mountains along the Three Gorges may be dotted with snow, and mist often lingers 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 a must.

  Holidays to Avoid: New Year’s Day Holiday and Spring Festival Holiday