Jinchang Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – China

Average Weather Conditions

Jinchang experiences a continental climate characterized by large seasonal temperature variations. Summers are hot and dry, with July being the hottest month, averaging around 26°C (79°F). Winters are cold and dry, with January being the coldest month, averaging around -12°C (10°F). Precipitation is scarce throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of only 150 mm (6 inches). Most of the rain falls during the summer months.

Yearly Temperature and Precipitation

The average temperature in Jinchang ranges from -12°C (10°F) in January to 26°C (79°F) in July. The average annual temperature is around 9°C (48°F). Precipitation is distributed unevenly throughout the year, with most of it falling during the summer months. The average annual precipitation is around 150 mm (6 inches). Snowfall is rare, but it can occur during the winter months.

Average Temperature in Jinchang, China

Jinchang, a city in China’s Gansu province, experiences a temperate continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature in Jinchang is around 11.2 degrees Celsius (52.2 degrees Fahrenheit), with significant variations between seasons.

During the summer months (June to August), Jinchang experiences high temperatures, with average highs ranging from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius (82 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit). This period is also characterized by relatively low humidity, creating somewhat comfortable conditions despite the heat. In contrast, winter temperatures in Jinchang drop significantly, with average lows ranging from -10 to -2 degrees Celsius (14 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit). The city experiences frequent snowfall during this time, with occasional periods of extreme cold.

Types of Clouds in Jinchang

Jinchang, located in northwest China, experiences a wide variety of cloud formations due to its geographical location and diverse climate. The most common cloud type is cirrus, which appears as wispy, feathery clouds high in the atmosphere. These clouds are primarily composed of ice crystals and often indicate fair weather. Cumulus clouds, caratterizzati by their puffy, cotton candy-like appearance, are also frequent in Jinchang. Cumulus clouds form at low to mid altitudes and can range from fair-weather clouds to thunderstorm clouds if they develop vertically.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Cloud cover in Jinchang varies seasonally, with more frequent cloud cover during the summer months and less cloud cover during the winter months. During the summer, the monsoon season brings increased moisture and cloud cover, leading to higher chances of precipitation. In contrast, the winter months are typically drier, with less cloud cover and lower chances of precipitation. The presence and types of clouds can provide valuable information about the weather conditions and help predict precipitation patterns in Jinchang.

Annual Precipitation and Variability

Jinchang, a city in northwestern China, experiences a temperate climate with significant variations in precipitation throughout the year. The annual precipitation in Jinchang typically ranges from 400 to 600 millimeters (16 to 24 inches). Most of the precipitation occurs during the summer months, specifically July and August, when the influence of the East Asian monsoon brings ample moisture to the region. The winter season, on the other hand, is relatively dry, with minimal precipitation falling between December and March.

Seasonal Distribution and Patterns

The seasonal distribution of precipitation in Jinchang is influenced by the monsoon system. During the summer, as the monsoon winds blow from the southeast and southwest, they carry moisture, resulting in heavy rainfall during the afternoons and evenings. In contrast, the winter season is characterized by the dominance of cold air masses from the northwest, leading to suppressed precipitation and a clear and dry climate. Variations in annual precipitation can occur due to fluctuations in monsoon strength and the influence of synoptic-scale weather systems.

Precipitation Patterns

Jinchang, located in northwest China, experiences a distinct pattern of rainfall. The region’s annual precipitation averages around 150 millimeters, with the majority occurring during the summer months from June to September. During this period, the influence of the East Asian Monsoon brings moist air masses from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in more frequent and intense rainfall events. The summer months are also characterized by short, sporadic showers that can occasionally lead to flash flooding.

Seasonal Variations

In contrast to the wet summer, the remaining months in Jinchang receive significantly less rainfall. The winter months, from December to February, are typically dry, with little to no precipitation. Spring and autumn witness a gradual increase in rainfall, but it remains relatively low compared to the summer months. These seasonal variations are primarily driven by the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which shifts northward during the summer and southward during the winter. The position of the ITCZ determines the amount and intensity of rainfall received in Jinchang.

Current Situation and Impacts:

Jinchang, a city in northwest China’s Gansu province, has experienced significant snowfall, accumulating several centimeters in depth. The snowfall has disrupted daily life, causing traffic delays and school closures. Power outages have also been reported in some areas as the heavy snow weighed down power lines. Emergency services are working to clear roads and restore power, but the situation remains challenging due to the ongoing snowfall.

Causes and Forecast:

The snowfall in Jinchang is attributed to a combination of factors, including a cold front from the north and moisture from the south. The city is located in a region that experiences regular winter snowfall, but the intensity and duration of this particular event have been unusual. Weather forecasts predict that the snowfall will continue for the next few days, with temperatures remaining low. Residents are advised to take precautions and avoid unnecessary travel until the weather improves.

Summer Sun in Jinchang

During the summer months, the sun in Jinchang, China, is an intense and powerful force. The city experiences an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, placing it among the sunniest cities in the world. The average temperature in July, the warmest month, is a scorching 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). The high altitude of Jinchang, located on the Tibetan Plateau, contributes to the intense solar radiation, as the air is thinner and allows more of the sun’s rays to reach the surface. As a result, protective measures such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and shade are essential during the summer months.

Winter Sun in Jinchang

In contrast to the summer, the sun in Jinchang during the winter months is noticeably milder. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is -3 degrees Celsius (26 degrees Fahrenheit). While the sun is still present, it is less intense due to the shorter daylight hours and the increased cloud cover. The winter months in Jinchang are characterized by clear skies and frosty mornings, with the sun providing a welcome source of warmth and brightness. However, the cold temperatures and occasional snowfall can make it uncomfortable to spend extended periods outdoors without proper winter clothing.

Appearance and Visibility

The Moon appears as a silvery-white, cratered sphere in Jinchang, China. Its visibility varies significantly depending on its phase and the time of day or night. During a full moon, it shines brightly and is visible throughout the night. During a new moon, it is not visible at all. As the Moon waxes and wanes, its visibility changes from a crescent to a gibbous to a full moon and back again. The Moon’s appearance can also be affected by the presence of clouds, pollution, or other atmospheric conditions.

Cultural Significance

The Moon holds great cultural significance in Chinese society and has been a source of inspiration for poets, artists, and musicians throughout history. In Chinese culture, the Moon is often associated with yin, the feminine principle, and is seen as a symbol of beauty, mystery, and tranquility. The Moon Festival, or Mid-Autumn Festival, is one of the most important holidays in China and is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunar calendar. During the festival, people gather with family and friends to enjoy mooncakes and watch the full moon.

Monthly Humidity Patterns

Jinchang, located in China’s Gobi Desert region, experiences significant variations in humidity throughout the year. The city’s arid climate results in generally low humidity levels, which fluctuate with the changing seasons. During the colder winter months (November to February), humidity averages around 40-50%, reaching its lowest point in January (42%). As temperatures rise in spring (March to May), humidity gradually increases, averaging 50-60% in May.

Annual Humidity Trends

Over the course of a year, Jinchang’s humidity displays a distinct pattern. The driest months fall within the winter and early spring, with January and February consistently showing the lowest humidity levels. Conversely, the wettest months occur during the summer monsoon season (June to August), reaching a peak in July (67%). During this period, increased rainfall and atmospheric moisture contribute to higher humidity levels. As autumn approaches (September to October), humidity gradually decreases, returning to moderate levels (50-60%) before entering the dry winter season.

Wind Patterns in Jinchang

Jinchang, located in the Gansu province of northwestern China, experiences distinct wind patterns throughout the year. During the spring, strong winds prevail from the northwest, bringing with them dry air and occasional dust storms. These winds, known as “black storms,” can reduce visibility and cause respiratory problems. In the summer, the wind direction shifts to the southwest, carrying warm and humid air from the Tibetan Plateau. This wind brings relief from the dry spring winds but can also lead to thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Impact on the Region

The persistent winds in Jinchang have played a significant role in shaping the region’s landscape and economy. The strong winds have eroded the soil, creating unique geological formations such as the Three Gorges of Lanzhou. The wind has also hindered agricultural practices, as it can damage crops and reduce soil fertility. However, the wind has also been harnessed for energy production. Jinchang is home to several wind farms, which take advantage of the strong and consistent winds to generate renewable electricity.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Jinchang, China is during the shoulder seasons, which fall in the months of April-May and September-October. These seasons offer pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from mild to warm, making outdoor exploration both enjoyable and comfortable. Spring brings an explosion of wildflowers, while autumn presents a kaleidoscope of foliage colors. Moreover, the shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season, allowing visitors to experience the city’s attractions at a leisurely pace.

Other Considerations

While the shoulder seasons offer the best overall experience, travelers may also consider visiting Jinchang during the summer months of June-August. However, this period can be characterized by extreme heat and humidity, which may hinder outdoor activities. Winters in Jinchang can be frigid, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. It’s important to note that snow is a rarity in the city, and precipitation is generally minimal throughout the year.

Jinchang Solar Park:

Jinchang Solar Park is a massive solar power project located in the Gobi Desert in Jinchang, China. Covering an area of over 80 square kilometers, it is the largest single-site photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the world. The project consists of over 4.5 million solar panels, with a total installed capacity of 2.2 gigawatts (GW). Jinchang Solar Park was completed in 2016 and has been providing clean, renewable energy to the region ever since.

Significance and Impact:

Jinchang Solar Park is a significant milestone in the development of solar energy in China and globally. It demonstrates the potential of large-scale solar power projects to significantly contribute to the transition towards a sustainable energy system. The project has also had a positive impact on the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating investment. Additionally, the clean energy generated by the solar park has helped reduce air pollution and mitigate climate change. Jinchang Solar Park serves as a testament to the rapid growth and potential of solar energy as a major source of clean and renewable electricity.

General Topography

Jinchang, a prefecture-level city in Gansu province, China, lies on the eastern edge of the Hexi Corridor. It is characterized by a diverse topography that encompasses both mountainous terrain and vast deserts. The Qilian Mountains, home to some of China’s highest peaks, rise to the southwest, while the Tengger Desert stretches out to the east. The city itself is situated in a valley between these two geographical features, with an elevation ranging from 1,300 to 1,500 meters above sea level.

Deserts and Mountains

The Tengger Desert, one of the largest deserts in China, covers a significant portion of Jinchang’s eastern area. Its rolling sand dunes and sparse vegetation create a picturesque and challenging landscape. The Qilian Mountains, on the other hand, tower over the western skyline, with snow-capped peaks and rugged slopes. These mountains are a haven for biodiversity, supporting alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The interaction between the desert and the mountains creates a unique and dynamic ecosystem in Jinchang.

Jinchang Airport (JIC)

Jinchang Airport (JIC) is the nearest airport to Jinchang, China. It is located approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the city center. The airport has one runway, which is 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) long. JIC is a regional airport that serves flights to several destinations within China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

The airport is served by several airlines, including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines. There is a regular bus service that connects the airport to the city center. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Taxis are also available at the airport. The fare to the city center is approximately 100 yuan (US$15).

Geography and Climate

Jinchang is a prefecture-level city in northwest China’s Gansu province. It is located in the Hexi Corridor, a narrow strip of land flanked by the Gobi Desert to the north and the Qilian Mountains to the south. The city covers an area of approximately 7,600 square kilometers and has a population of over 4 million. Jinchang experiences a temperate, semi-arid climate with extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C in winter to 35°C in summer. The city receives scant rainfall, primarily during the summer months.

Economy and Infrastructure

Jinchang is a major industrial center in Gansu province, with a strong emphasis on the mining, renewable energy, and manufacturing sectors. The city boasts abundant mineral resources, including copper, gold, silver, and nickel. Jinchang is also a significant hub for wind and solar power generation. The city is served by several major highways, railways, and airports, connecting it to key domestic and international markets. Jinchang has a well-developed education system and several universities and research institutions, contributing to its scientific and technological advancements.