Hai’an Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – China

Summer (June to August)

Hai’an experiences hot and humid summers, with average temperatures in July reaching 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity can often make the heat feel even more extreme, especially during the afternoons. Rain is frequent during this season, and there are occasional thunderstorms. Despite the heat and humidity, summer in Hai’an is a popular time to visit, as many people enjoy the warm weather for swimming, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Hai’an are cold and dry, with average temperatures in January dropping to around 1 degree Celsius (34 degrees Fahrenheit). Snow is rare in Hai’an, but it can occasionally occur. The days are typically short during this season, and the sun rarely shines. However, winter in Hai’an is a relatively quiet time, and it’s a great time to visit for those who enjoy cold weather and fewer crowds.

Summer Temperatures

During the summer months from June to August, Hai’an experiences warm and humid weather. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in June to a peak of 28°C (82°F) in July and August. The humidity levels are typically high, often exceeding 80%, which can make the heat feel even more oppressive. Occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are also common during this time of year.

Winter Temperatures

In contrast to the summer, winters in Hai’an are cold and dry. Average temperatures from December to February range from 1°C (34°F) in December to a low of -1°C (30°F) in January. The cold weather is accompanied by occasional snowfall, which typically occurs in January and February. However, the snowfall tends to be light and does not accumulate significantly. The humidity levels during winter are much lower than in summer, making the cold weather more tolerable.

Types of Clouds Observed in Hai’an, China

Hai’an, China experiences a variety of cloud formations throughout the year. During the spring and summer months, cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds are prevalent. Cumulus clouds appear as puffy, white clouds with flat bases and domed tops, while cumulonimbus clouds are tall, anvil-shaped clouds that can produce precipitation. In the winter, cirrus and stratus clouds are more common. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that are composed of ice crystals, and stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover a large area of the sky and often produce drizzle or light rain.

Influence of Atmospheric Conditions on Cloud Formation

The types of clouds observed in Hai’an are influenced by several atmospheric conditions, including temperature, humidity, and atmospheric instability. Temperature plays a crucial role in determining the type of cloud that forms. Warm temperatures promote the formation of cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds, while cold temperatures favor the formation of cirrus and stratus clouds. Humidity also affects cloud formation, with higher humidity levels leading to the formation of thicker and denser clouds. Atmospheric instability, which refers to the tendency of air to rise and cool, is another important factor that influences cloud formation. Stable atmospheric conditions favor the formation of low-level clouds, such as stratus clouds, while unstable atmospheric conditions promote the development of tall, vertically developed clouds, such as cumulonimbus clouds.

Annual Precipitation

Hai’an, China experiences a humid subtropical climate with ample precipitation throughout the year. The annual precipitation averages around 1,000 millimeters (39.4 inches), with a slight variation between wet and dry seasons. The wettest months occur from May to September, during which time the monsoon rains bring heavy rainfall to the region. The driest months are from December to February, when precipitation is generally lower due to a shift in wind patterns and the influence of cold fronts.

Seasonal Patterns

During the spring (March-May), precipitation gradually increases as temperatures rise and the monsoon winds approach. The summer months (June-August) are characterized by abundant rainfall, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours. Autumn (September-November) still experiences significant precipitation, though it gradually decreases as the monsoon retreats. Winter (December-February) brings the least amount of precipitation, with occasional light rain or drizzle and the possibility of some snowfall during cold spells.

Average Annual Rainfall and Its Distribution

Hai’an, China, experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,100 millimeters (43 inches). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slight variations between months. The wettest months are typically June, July, and August, while the driest months are December and January. The city receives frequent showers and drizzle, with occasional heavy downpours during the summer months.

Factors Influencing Rainfall Patterns

The location and topography of Hai’an play a significant role in its rainfall patterns. Situated on the eastern coast of China, the city is exposed to moisture-carrying winds from the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, Jiangsu Province, where Hai’an is located, is known for its humid subtropical climate, which includes ample rainfall. Local factors such as elevation and proximity to water bodies also contribute to the variability in rainfall amounts across the region.

Historical Significance

Snowfall is not as common in Hai’an, China, as it is in other parts of the country. Historically, significant snowfall events in Hai’an have been rare occurrences. In 2008, Hai’an experienced a heavy snowfall that brought the city to a standstill. The snowfall measured approximately 10 centimeters in depth, causing widespread disruption to transportation and daily life. Prior to that, the last major snowfall in Hai’an occurred in 1995, although it was not as severe as the 2008 event.

Recent Observations

In recent years, snowfall in Hai’an has become increasingly uncommon. The city’s subtropical climate and proximity to the sea make it generally milder than other parts of China. However, on January 16, 2023, Hai’an witnessed a rare snowfall phenomenon. For over an hour, light snow fell, covering the city in a thin layer of white. While the snowfall did not accumulate significantly, it created a beautiful winter wonderland and brought joy to the city’s residents. This event marked the first snowfall in Hai’an since the heavy snowfall of 2008, highlighting its infrequency.

Sunrise and Sunset

In Hai’an, China, the time of sunrise and sunset varies depending on the season. During the summer months (June to August), the sun rises around 5:00 AM and sets around 7:00 PM. In the winter months (December to February), the sun rises around 7:00 AM and sets around 5:00 PM. The length of the day also varies throughout the year, with the longest days occurring in June.

Sunshine Duration

The amount of sunshine that Hai’an receives varies throughout the year. During the summer months, the city enjoys an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunshine per day. In the winter months, the amount of sunshine drops to around 3 to 5 hours per day. The city experiences the highest levels of sunshine in June, with an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day.

Visibility and Observation

In Hai’an, China, the moon is generally visible for an average of 190 to 220 nights per year. Clear skies and low light pollution provide optimal conditions for moonwatching, especially between October and March. During the winter months, the air is often drier and clearer, allowing for sharper and more detailed observations.

Moon Phases

Throughout the year, the moon goes through various phases as it orbits the Earth. In Hai’an, the full moon rises in the east around 6:00 PM and sets in the west around 6:00 AM. The new moon, on the other hand, is not visible from Earth since it is located between the Sun and Earth. The crescent moon appears a few days before and after the new moon and is a beautiful sight to behold.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Humidity levels in Hai’an, China, exhibit distinct seasonal variations. During spring and early summer, humidity remains moderate, typically ranging between 60-75%. However, as temperatures rise towards the middle of summer, so does humidity, reaching peak levels of 80-90% in July and August. These high humidity conditions contribute to a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere, making it challenging for outdoor activities. As autumn approaches, humidity gradually declines, dropping to around 60-70% in October and November. Winter brings the driest conditions, with humidity levels hovering between 50-60%.

Impacts on Daily Life

High humidity levels in Hai’an during summer can significantly impact daily life. The excessive moisture in the air can cause discomfort, leading to sweating and increased body temperature. For people with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies, high humidity can aggravate symptoms and make breathing more difficult. Additionally, high humidity levels can promote the growth of mold and mildew in homes and other enclosed spaces, potentially posing health risks. To mitigate these effects, air conditioning and dehumidifiers are commonly used to regulate humidity levels and improve comfort in indoor environments.

Wind Patterns in Hai’an, China

Hai’an, a coastal city in Jiangsu Province, China, experiences distinct wind patterns influenced by its geographical location. Prevailing winds in Hai’an are predominantly from the northeast and southwest directions. During the summer months (June-August), the prevailing wind is from the southwest, bringing warm and humid air from the East China Sea. This wind is part of the East Asian Monsoon system and contributes to the high humidity and precipitation levels in Hai’an during this season.

Seasonal Variations in Wind Conditions

In the winter months (December-February), the prevailing wind shifts to the northeast, bringing cold and dry air from Siberia. These northeasterly winds are less frequent but can be intense, sometimes reaching gale force. The combination of cold temperatures and strong winds can lead to severe weather conditions, including snowstorms and coastal flooding.

Seasonal variations in wind direction are primarily driven by the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the East Asian Monsoon system. The ITCZ is a low-pressure zone near the equator where the trade winds from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres converge. During the summer, the ITCZ shifts northward, bringing warm and humid air to Hai’an from the southwest. In the winter, the ITCZ moves southward, allowing cold and dry air from the north to dominate the region’s wind patterns.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is an ideal time to visit Hai’an, as temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit. The abundant rainfall and humidity create a lush and vibrant landscape, with wildflowers blooming in abundance. March and April showcase the renowned peach blossom festival, when the city’s peach trees burst into a sea of pink blossoms, attracting visitors from near and far.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is another excellent time to explore Hai’an, offering a respite from the summer heat and humidity. Temperatures hover comfortably in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, with crisp and clear skies. The foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, creating picturesque landscapes. September and October showcase the annual Chinese National Day holiday, which often coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, bringing lively celebrations and cultural events throughout the city.

Solar Energy Potential in Hai’an, China

Hai’an County in Jiangsu Province, China boasts significant potential for solar energy development. The region receives abundant solar radiation throughout the year, with an average of 4.8-5.2 kWh/m2 per day. This favorable solar resource makes Hai’an an ideal location for photovoltaic (PV) installations.

The county has undertaken several initiatives to harness this potential. In 2018, the Hai’an Solar Park was established with an initial capacity of 300 MW, making it one of the largest PV projects in China. Additionally, numerous rooftop solar installations have been implemented on residential and commercial buildings, further contributing to Hai’an’s growing solar capacity.

Topography of Hai’an, China

Hai’an is a county-level city located in the eastern coastal region of Jiangsu Province, China. The topography of Hai’an is characterized by its flat and low-lying terrain. The vast majority of the county’s land area lies at or below sea level, with a gentle slope towards the south and east. The highest point in Hai’an is only 13 meters (43 feet) above sea level, while the average elevation is around 3 meters (10 feet). The area is prone to flooding and waterlogging during heavy rainfall or typhoons.

Despite its low-lying topography, Hai’an is also home to a network of rivers and canals that play a vital role in drainage and navigation. The largest river in Hai’an is the Yangtze River, which forms the county’s northern boundary. Other major rivers include the Huai River, the Gaoyou Lake, and the Baoying Lake. These waterways provide important channels for transportation, irrigation, and fisheries, and support a diverse ecosystem of aquatic plants and animals.

Nantong Xingdong Airport

The nearest airport to Hai’an, China, is Nantong Xingdong Airport (NTG). Located approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) northwest of the city center, it serves the greater Nantong area, including the city of Hai’an. NTG handles both domestic and international flights, connecting Hai’an to destinations within China and throughout Asia. Major airlines operating at Nantong Xingdong Airport include Air China, China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Juneyao Air, and Spring Airlines.

NTG is a modern airport with a well-developed infrastructure and facilities. It features a single terminal building with 11 boarding gates, offering a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers. The airport provides a range of services and amenities, including check-in counters, baggage claim areas, duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and currency exchange services. Additionally, NTG has ample parking spaces, both short-term and long-term, for the convenience of travelers.

History and Culture

Hai’an County has a rich history dating back to the neolithic period. During the Ming Dynasty, the area was established as a county and named Hai’an, meaning “Sea of Peace.” The county has been an important port and trading center throughout its history. Today, Hai’an is a thriving industrial and agricultural hub with a population of over 1 million. Despite its economic growth, Hai’an has preserved its cultural heritage, with many historical sites and traditional festivals.

Economy and Infrastructure

Hai’an’s economy is primarily driven by its manufacturing and agricultural sectors. The county is known for its production of home appliances, textiles, and food processing. Agriculture plays a significant role, with crops such as rice, wheat, and vegetables being cultivated in the fertile lands around the Yangtze River. Hai’an also boasts excellent infrastructure, including a high-speed rail line connecting it to major cities like Shanghai and Nanjing. The county’s transportation network includes highways, railways, and waterways, facilitating trade and commerce. Hai’an is a hub for economic development in the Jiangsu Province and a prime destination for investment and business.