Jilin Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – China

Summer (June to August)

Jilin’s summers are characterized by warm to hot temperatures, with average highs ranging from 27°C (80.6°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). The humidity levels are moderate, making the weather comfortable for most. July is the warmest month, with average highs of around 33°C (91.4°F) and average lows of around 22°C (71.6°F). While temperatures can reach the mid-30s (°C) during the day, evenings and nights often cool down to the mid-teens (°C).

Winter (December to February)

In contrast to its warm summers, Jilin experiences cold and snowy winters. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, with average lows ranging from -20°C (-4°F) to -12°C (10.4°F). The city receives an average of 30 cm (11.8 in) of snowfall per year, which can accumulate on the ground for several months. January is the coldest month, with average highs of around -12°C (10.4°F) and average lows of around -20°C (-4°F). The combination of low temperatures and heavy snowfall can make it challenging to venture outdoors during the winter months.

Seasonal Temperature Variations

Jilin, a province in northeastern China, experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations. Winters are notoriously long and frigid, with average temperatures plummeting to below freezing from November to March. The coldest months are January and February, when temperatures typically hover around -15 to -20 degrees Celsius (-5 to -13 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall is abundant during this period, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland.

Summer Temperatures and Precipitation

In contrast to the harsh winters, summers in Jilin are relatively mild. Temperatures in July and August commonly reach the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit), offering a respite from the cold. However, precipitation is frequent during the summer months, with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall occasionally disrupting outdoor activities. The high humidity levels can also make the summer weather feel muggy and uncomfortable.

Types of Clouds in Jilin, China

Jilin Province in China experiences a diverse range of cloud formations due to its varied climate and geography. During the summer months, cumulonimbus clouds are prevalent. These massive, towering clouds often produce heavy rainfall and can lead to thunderstorms or hail. In the spring and autumn, cirrus clouds are common. These thin, wispy clouds are composed of ice crystals and are often seen at high altitudes. During the winter, stratus and stratocumulus clouds dominate the sky. These low-level clouds appear as a uniform gray layer, often obscuring the sun and producing drizzle or light snow.

Cloud Formations and Weather Patterns

The formation of clouds in Jilin is closely linked to the province’s weather patterns. During the warm and humid summer months, warm air rises rapidly, leading to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds. These clouds bring heavy rainfall, which is vital for agriculture in the region. In the spring and autumn, as temperatures become more moderate, cirrus clouds become more common. These clouds are often associated with stable weather conditions. During the winter, cold air masses dominate, resulting in the formation of stratus and stratocumulus clouds. These clouds often produce drizzle or light snow, contributing to the province’s generally gray and overcast winter weather.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Jilin Province in China experiences distinct seasonal variations in precipitation. Winters are typically dry, with monthly precipitation averaging below 10 mm. The dry spell culminates in January, when precipitation often drops below 5 mm. In contrast, summers are characterized by abundant rainfall. The monsoon season brings heavy downpours from July to August, contributing to peak monthly precipitation of over 150 mm. Precipitation tends to decrease gradually toward autumn, with October receiving approximately 50 mm of rainfall. November and December mark the transition to winter dryness, with precipitation levels declining to around 20 mm.

Spatial Distribution

Precipitation distribution across Jilin Province varies significantly. The eastern portion of the province, bordering the Sea of Japan, receives higher annual precipitation than the western regions. Coastal areas like Yanbian Prefecture experience an average of over 1,000 mm of rainfall per year, while Changchun and Jilin City in central Jilin receive around 600-700 mm. The western regions, dominated by mountains and plateaus, receive less precipitation, with some areas averaging below 500 mm annually. These spatial variations are primarily influenced by altitude, distance from the coast, and prevailing wind patterns.

Variability and Seasonality

Rainfall in Jilin, China, exhibits marked variability across the province and throughout the year. The annual precipitation ranges widely, from approximately 400 mm in the westernmost part of the province to over 1,000 mm in the mountainous regions of the southeast. The majority of the rainfall occurs during the summer monsoon season, which typically spans from June to September. During this period, warm and humid air masses from the Pacific Ocean bring abundant rainfall, particularly to the southern and eastern parts of Jilin. Conversely, winter months are characterized by low precipitation, as cold and dry Siberian air masses dominate the region.

Spatial Distribution and Topographic Influences

The spatial distribution of rainfall in Jilin is strongly influenced by topography. The mountainous terrain in the southeast acts as a barrier to moisture-laden air, resulting in higher precipitation rates on the windward slopes. Conversely, the leeward slopes receive less rainfall. Additionally, the proximity to the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Gulf provides a source of moisture for the eastern part of the province, while the western part is more arid due to its distance from these water bodies. As a result, the eastern and southeastern regions of Jilin receive significantly more rainfall than the western and northwestern regions.

Heavy Snowfall Paralyzes Jilin, China

Over the past several days, the northeast Chinese province of Jilin has been pummeled by an unrelenting barrage of snowfall. The extreme weather conditions have caused significant disruptions to transportation and infrastructure, leaving many residents stranded and essential services inaccessible. The city of Changchun, the provincial capital, has been particularly hard-hit, with snowdrifts reaching heights of several meters, blocking roads and railways.

As a result of the heavy snowfall, transportation within and out of Jilin has been severely impacted. Flights and train services have been suspended, leaving travelers stranded. Road closures have also made it difficult for emergency crews to reach affected areas. The blizzard has also caused widespread power outages, leaving many homes and businesses without electricity. Due to the extreme cold and limited access to essential supplies, residents are facing challenges in acquiring food, water, and other necessities.

Sunshine Duration

Jilin, located in the northeastern region of China, experiences a wide range of sunlight durations throughout the year. During the summer months (June to August), the sun shines for an average of 8-9 hours per day, reaching a maximum of over 10 hours in July. This extended sunshine provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and helps fuel the growth of vegetation in the region. In contrast, during the winter months (December to February), the sunlight duration drops significantly, averaging only 4-5 hours per day. The shorter days and reduced sunshine contribute to the colder temperatures and limited visibility experienced during this time.

Seasonal Variations

The seasonal variations in sunlight duration in Jilin are primarily influenced by the Earth’s tilt and rotation. During the summer solstice in June, the northern hemisphere tilts towards the sun, resulting in longer days and more intense sunlight. Conversely, during the winter solstice in December, the northern hemisphere tilts away from the sun, leading to shorter days and reduced sunlight exposure. Additionally, the latitude of Jilin contributes to its seasonal sunlight variations. Being located at a higher latitude, Jilin experiences more significant fluctuations in day length throughout the year compared to regions closer to the equator.

Moon in Jilin, China

The moon in Jilin, China, has been a source of wonder and fascination for centuries. The region’s clear skies and lack of light pollution make it an ideal location for stargazing and moonwatching. On a clear night, the moon appears as a bright, silvery orb hanging in the sky. Its craters and ridges are clearly visible to the naked eye, casting intricate shadows across the lunar surface. The moon’s gentle glow illuminates the landscape, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere.

In Jilin, the moon has played a significant role in local culture and mythology. The Chinese people have long associated the moon with fertility, renewal, and good luck. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, which takes place in September or October, families gather under the full moon to eat mooncakes and appreciate the lunar beauty. The moon is also a popular subject in Chinese art and literature, and its image can be found in countless paintings, poems, and songs.

Seasonal Variation

Jilin, China experiences significant seasonal variation in humidity levels. During the hot and humid summer months (June to August), relative humidity often reaches 70-80% or higher. This is due to the influx of warm, moisture-laden air from the south. In contrast, the cold and dry winter months (December to February) see relative humidity levels drop to around 30-40%. The cold air holds less moisture, resulting in drier conditions.

Geographical Distribution

Humidity levels also vary geographically within Jilin Province. The eastern part, which borders the Sea of Japan, tends to be more humid than the western part. The coastal areas experience the highest humidity, with some locations averaging relative humidity levels of 80% or more throughout the year. Moving westward, humidity levels gradually decrease due to the influence of the drier continental climate.

Wind Patterns and Statistics

Jilin Province in China experiences diverse wind patterns throughout the year. During the winter season, the region is influenced by the strong and cold northwesterly winds that originate from Siberia. These winds bring frigid temperatures and can cause blizzards and snowstorms. In contrast, during the summer months, Jilin experiences more moderate winds, with the prevailing wind direction shifting to southeasterly. These winds bring warm and humid air from the Pacific Ocean, contributing to the region’s hot and humid summer weather.

Statistically, the average wind speed in Jilin varies depending on the season and location. During the winter, wind speeds can reach up to 25 kilometers per hour, while in the summer, they average around 15 kilometers per hour. The strongest winds are typically observed in the northern and western parts of the province, where the mountainous terrain accelerates the wind flow. Additionally, Jilin is occasionally affected by typhoons that form over the Pacific Ocean. These storms can bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding to the province.

Spring (March to May):
Spring in Jilin is a season of awakening. The weather turns mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. As the snow melts away, vibrant wildflowers bloom across the mountainsides, creating a picturesque landscape. This period is ideal for hiking, photography, and exploring the region’s natural beauty. The Songhua River also becomes a popular spot for leisurely cruises or ice fishing tours.

Summer (June to August):
Summer in Jilin is characterized by warm and sunny days, with temperatures averaging between 18°C and 28°C. It is a time for relaxation and outdoor activities. Lake Jingpo, known as “the pearl of Jilin,” offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. Changbaishan Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites visitors to hike its scenic trails and marvel at its pristine alpine lakes. The summer months also coincide with the region’s vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Jilin Song and Dance Festival and the Changbaishan International Photography Festival, showcasing local traditions and artistry.

Potential for Solar Energy in Jilin, China

Jilin Province in northeastern China possesses considerable potential for solar energy development due to its favorable climatic conditions. Jilin receives an average of 1,400-1,600 kilowatt-hours of solar radiation per square meter annually, ranking among the highest in the country. Additionally, the province has a low latitude and long daylight hours, particularly during the summer months. These factors contribute to an ideal environment for the generation of solar power.

Development and Challenges

In recent years, Jilin has made significant strides in developing its solar energy industry. As of 2021, the province had installed a total of 25.77 gigawatts of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity, accounting for approximately 3.5% of the nation’s total installed PV capacity. However, challenges remain in further expanding solar energy utilization. These include the need for increased financial investment, technological advancements, and a supportive policy framework to promote the industry’s sustainable growth.

Mountains and Hills

The topography of Jilin is dominated by mountains and hills, which cover around 70% of the province’s land area. The Changbai Mountains, located along the border with North Korea, are the highest range in Jilin, with Mount Paektu, the highest peak, rising to over 2,700 meters. Other notable mountain ranges in Jilin include the Zhangguangcai Mountains, the Jilin Mountains, and the Wulca Mountains. These mountainous regions are characterized by rugged terrain, forested slopes, and abundant water resources.

Rivers and Lakes

Jilin is also rich in water resources, with numerous rivers and lakes. The Songhua River, the largest river in Jilin, flows through the province from north to south. Other major rivers include the Yalu River, the Tumen River, and the Liaohe River. Jilin is also home to a number of large lakes, including Lake Jingpo, Lake Chagan, and Lake Dongliao. These water bodies provide valuable resources for irrigation, navigation, and tourism. The wetlands and river systems in Jilin also support a diverse ecosystem, including numerous fish species, migratory birds, and other wildlife.

Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ)

Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ) is the nearest airport to Jilin City, the capital of Jilin province in China. It is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) southwest of the city center and is the largest airport in northeastern China. The airport serves as a hub for China Southern Airlines and offers direct flights to major cities within China, as well as international destinations in Asia, Europe, and North America. CGQ handles over 10 million passengers annually, making it a significant transportation hub for the region.

Yanji Chaoyangchuan International Airport (YNJ)

Another nearby airport to Jilin City is Yanji Chaoyangchuan International Airport (YNJ), located approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) northeast of the city. It is the main airport for the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture and serves as a hub for Air Koryo, the national airline of North Korea. YNJ offers direct flights to cities within China, as well as international destinations in North Korea, South Korea, Japan, and Russia. The airport handles over 3 million passengers annually and plays an important role in cross-border trade and tourism between China and North Korea.

Geography and Climate

Jilin, a province situated in northeastern China, boasts a diverse topography encompassing mountains, forests, and grasslands, while the Songhua River meanders through its heart. The climate varies significantly between regions, with the northern part experiencing a cold and humid continental climate, marked by long and harsh winters, while the southern stretches enjoy a more temperate climate with distinct seasons. The province is rich in natural resources, including coal, timber, and agricultural products.

Culture and History

Jilin is home to a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, including the Han, Korean, and Manchu. The province has a long and storied history, dating back to the ancient Joseon Kingdom. In the 17th century, it was incorporated into the Qing Dynasty by the Manchus. Jilin’s cultural legacy is reflected in its numerous historical sites, including the ruins of the Liao Dynasty capital of Shangjing and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Changbai Mountain Biosphere Reserve. The province is also renowned for its traditional crafts, such as paper-cutting and porcelain-making.