Shantou Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – China

Temperature

Shantou experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The hottest month is July, with average temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F). The coldest month is January, with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F). Temperatures tend to vary significantly throughout the year, with the difference between the hottest and coldest months being around 15°C (27°F).

Rainfall

Shantou receives an average of 1,500 mm (59 in) of rainfall annually, with most of it occurring during the summer months. The wettest month is June, with an average of 270 mm (11 in) of rainfall. The driest month is January, with an average of only 30 mm (1.2 in). The rainfall pattern is influenced by the monsoon winds, which bring heavy precipitation during the summer months from the Pacific Ocean.

Average Temperature in Shantou, China

Shantou, a coastal city in China’s Guangdong province, experiences a subtropical monsoon climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature in Shantou is approximately 21.6 degrees Celsius (71 degrees Fahrenheit). The warmest months are June to September, with average temperatures hovering around 28-30 degrees Celsius (82-86 degrees Fahrenheit). During these months, the humidity is also relatively high, making the weather feel even warmer.

In contrast, the coldest months are December to February, when average temperatures drop to around 15-17 degrees Celsius (59-63 degrees Fahrenheit). While the winters are generally mild, there can be occasional cold spells with temperatures dipping below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity during the winter months is typically lower, making the weather feel more comfortable. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year in Shantou, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during the summer months. The city receives an average annual rainfall of around 1,600 millimeters (63 inches).

Types of Clouds

Shantou experiences a diverse range of cloud types due to its coastal location and subtropical climate. During the monsoon season (April-September), cumulonimbus clouds are prevalent, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. These clouds have a characteristic anvil-shaped top and can reach high altitudes. Cumulus and stratocumulus clouds are also common, appearing as puffy white or gray masses in the sky. Additionally, Shantou witnesses occasional cirrus clouds, thin and wispy clouds composed of ice crystals that form at high altitudes.

Impact on Weather and Climate

Clouds play a significant role in shaping the weather and climate of Shantou. Thick cloud cover can block sunlight and reduce the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. This can result in cooler temperatures, particularly during the summer months. Clouds also affect precipitation patterns. Cumulonimbus clouds are associated with heavy rainfall, while cirrus clouds typically do not produce precipitation. Moreover, clouds can influence wind patterns, providing shelter from strong winds and creating local wind currents. In general, cloud cover in Shantou contributes to the city’s subtropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and abundant rainfall.

Average Precipitation

Shantou experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The average annual precipitation in Shantou is approximately 2,000 millimeters (79 inches), with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the summer months. During this period, monsoon winds bring moist air from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in prolonged periods of rain. The region also experiences occasional typhoons, which can significantly increase rainfall totals.

Seasonal Distribution

Rainfall distribution in Shantou varies seasonally. The summer months, from June to September, are the wettest, with average monthly precipitation exceeding 300 millimeters (12 inches). The autumn months, from October to November, are typically dry, with precipitation levels dropping to around 100 millimeters (4 inches) per month. Winter months, from December to February, remain relatively dry, although occasional rain or drizzle is possible. Spring months, from March to May, witness a gradual increase in rainfall, as the monsoon winds begin to influence the region more significantly.

Annual Rainfall Pattern

Shantou experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The annual rainfall in Shantou is substantial, averaging around 2,500 millimeters per year. The wet season spans from April to September, with heavy precipitation concentrated during the months of June and July. During these months, the city receives frequent thunderstorms and intense rainfall, contributing significantly to the overall annual rainfall. In contrast, the dry season, from October to March, is typically characterized by minimal precipitation.

Impact on Environment and Infrastructure

The abundant rainfall in Shantou shapes the city’s environment and infrastructure. The regular and heavy rainfall during the wet season sustains lush vegetation throughout the year, contributing to the verdant landscapes and thriving agricultural sector in the area. However, the intense rainfall can also pose challenges. The city’s drainage systems and infrastructure must be robust enough to accommodate the high volume of water during the wet season, as heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and disruption of daily life. Additionally, the erosion caused by rainfall can impact the stability of slopes and riverbanks, necessitating ongoing maintenance and management efforts to protect against landslides and erosion-related hazards.

Unusual Snowfall

Snowfall is a rare occurrence in Shantou, China, a coastal city in the southern province of Guangdong. However, on January 24, 2023, the city experienced unprecedented snowfall, with a thick blanket of white covering the streets and rooftops. The snowfall lasted for several hours, accumulating to a depth of several centimeters in some areas.

The snowfall caused widespread disruption and transportation delays, as roads became impassable and flights were canceled. The unusual weather conditions also brought joy and excitement to local residents, who took to social media to share photos and videos of the snow-covered cityscape. It was a unique and memorable event for the people of Shantou, creating a winter wonderland in a city unaccustomed to snowfall.

Geographic Location of Shantou

Shantou, a city in southeastern China, is situated on the northern coast of the South China Sea. It is located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of the city of Xiamen and 200 kilometers (125 miles) southwest of the city of Guangzhou. Shantou is the administrative center of the Chaoshan region, which is known for its distinct dialect and culture.

Climate of Shantou

Shantou’s climate is classified as a humid subtropical climate. The city experiences hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach highs of up to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) with high humidity levels. In the winter months, temperatures typically hover around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) and drop to lows of around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) at night. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, averaging around 1,500 millimeters (59 inches) annually. Shantou experiences occasional typhoons during the summer and autumn months.

Moon Viewing in Shantou, China

Shantou, a coastal city in southern China’s Guangdong province, is renowned for its picturesque natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. The city’s vibrant waterfront promenade, known as Dongjiao Road, offers breathtaking views of the South China Sea and is a popular spot for moon viewing during the Mid-Autumn Festival. As the full moon rises over the horizon, casting a golden glow upon the waters, locals and tourists alike gather along the promenade to admire its beauty and share the traditional festivities. The festival is a time for family reunions, mooncake feasts, and paying homage to the moon goddess.

During the Mid-Autumn Festival, Shantou’s cultural heritage comes to life with a variety of traditional performances and activities. The streets are adorned with colorful lanterns, and the air fills with the sound of traditional music and dance. Locals dress in festive attire and participate in folk games like dragon boat racing and mooncake throwing. The festival is also a time for reflection and giving thanks, with many families hosting moonlit banquets and offering prayers for prosperity and good fortune. The moon viewing in Shantou is not just an aesthetic experience but a deep-rooted cultural tradition that brings the community together in celebration and remembrance.

Average Humidity Levels

Shantou, a coastal city in China, experiences moderate to high humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual humidity ranges from 70% to 85%, with higher levels during the summer months and lower levels during the winter months. During the summer, the humidity can reach as high as 90%, making the air feel sticky and uncomfortable. In the winter, however, the humidity can drop to as low as 60%, resulting in a drier and more pleasant atmosphere.

Seasonal Variations

Humidity in Shantou exhibits seasonal variations, with distinct patterns observed throughout the year. The most humid months are typically June through August, coinciding with the East Asian monsoon season that brings warm, moist air from the ocean. During this time, the city experiences frequent rainfall and high humidity, often accompanied by heavy downpours and thunderstorms. In contrast, the winter months from November to February are relatively drier, with humidity levels dropping significantly. As the monsoon winds weaken and the cold air from the north dominates, the air becomes drier and less humid, creating a more comfortable climate for outdoor activities.

Wind Patterns in Shantou

Shantou experiences distinct wind patterns throughout the year. During the northeast monsoon season, from October to April, strong northeasterly winds prevail. These winds are dry and bring clear skies and low humidity to the region. The average wind speed during this season ranges from 15 to 25 knots (28 to 46 km/h).

In contrast, during the southwest monsoon season, from May to September, southwesterly winds dominate. These winds are moist and bring frequent precipitation to Shantou. The average wind speed during this season is slightly lower, ranging from 10 to 20 knots (19 to 37 km/h). In summer, occasional tropical cyclones may also bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to the area, leading to wind speeds exceeding 40 knots (74 km/h).

Autumn (September-November):

Autumn in Shantou ushers in pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the city. The weather is typically sunny and mild, with minimal humidity. The vibrant foliage paints the landscape in hues of orange, yellow, and red, creating picturesque views. This season offers numerous outdoor opportunities such as hiking the scenic Phoenix Mountain or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Golden Sands Beach. Moreover, the Mid-Autumn Festival takes place during this time, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage with lanterns and traditional festivities.

Spring (March-May):

Spring in Shantou brings a refreshing burst of color as flowers start to bloom throughout the city. The weather is generally warm and comfortable, with occasional showers providing a welcome respite from the heat. The lush greenery creates a delightful ambiance, perfect for exploring the city’s parks and gardens. The annual Flower Festival is a highlight of this season, featuring magnificent floral displays and horticultural exhibitions. Additionally, this time of year is ideal for visiting the Waisha Floating Island and the Shantou Botanical Garden, which showcase the city’s natural beauty.

Solar Energy Potential:

Shantou, a coastal city in southeastern China, boasts excellent solar energy potential due to its abundant sunshine and favorable weather conditions. The city receives an average of 1,950 sunshine hours annually, with clear skies prevailing for most of the year. This makes Shantou an attractive destination for solar energy development, enabling the generation of significant amounts of clean and renewable electricity. The city’s vast coastline and open spaces provide ample land for the installation of solar farms, offering opportunities for large-scale solar projects.

Solar Energy Developments:

Shantou has made significant progress in harnessing its solar energy potential. The city has established several solar power plants, including the Shantou Solar Power Station, which was commissioned in 2017 with an installed capacity of 100 megawatts (MW). In recent years, the city has accelerated the development of solar energy, with several large-scale projects currently underway. The Shantou Nan’ao Tidal Power Project, for instance, incorporates a 100 MW floating solar farm alongside its tidal power generation. Furthermore, Shantou is promoting the adoption of solar energy in residential and commercial buildings through incentives and subsidies. This comprehensive approach is contributing to the city’s transition towards a more sustainable energy mix.

Mountains and Valleys

Shantou’s topography is characterized by a mix of rolling hills and rugged mountains. The city lies at the foot of the Jiulong Mountains, a subrange of the Wuyi Mountains. The highest peak within the city’s boundaries is Phoenix Mountain, which stands at an elevation of over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). The mountains of Shantou are known for their scenic views and provide opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities. The valleys between the mountains are fertile agricultural areas, and the region is known for its production of tea, fruit, and vegetables.

Coastline and Bays

Shantou is located on the coast of the South China Sea, and its coastline is dotted with numerous bays and inlets. The most notable of these is Shantou Bay, a large natural harbor that has been a major port city since the 19th century. The coastline of Shantou is also home to several scenic beaches, such as Golden Sands Beach and Nan’ao Island, which attract tourists and locals alike. The coastal areas of the city are characterized by a warm, humid climate, with long, hot summers and mild, dry winters.

Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (SWA)

Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport is the nearest airport to Shantou, China. It is located in the city of Jieyang, approximately 40 kilometers from Shantou’s city center. The airport serves as a regional hub for the eastern Guangdong province and offers both domestic and international flights. It is well-connected to major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Xiamen. The airport also operates international flights to Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Singapore.

Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport is a modern and well-equipped facility. It features two terminals, with Terminal 1 handling domestic flights and Terminal 2 handling international flights. The airport provides a range of passenger services, including check-in counters, baggage claim areas, duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. The airport is also connected to Shantou by a dedicated airport express bus service and taxis.

History of Shantou, China

Shantou, formerly known as Swatow, has a rich and storied history dating back centuries. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Han River estuary has made it a vital port and trading center throughout its existence. The city was first established as a fishing village during the Song dynasty (960-1279), and over time grew into a major trading hub for tea, silk, and other commodities.

In the 19th century, Shantou became a treaty port, opening it up to foreign influence and investment. This led to the establishment of numerous foreign concessions and industries, transforming the city into a thriving economic center. During the Chinese Revolution, Shantou played a significant role as a base for the Communist Party.

Culture and Sights in Shantou, China

Shantou is a vibrant and diverse city, with a unique blend of cultures and traditions. It is known for its delicious seafood cuisine, which features fresh catches from the surrounding waters. The city is also home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks, including the Shantou Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and exhibits on local history.

Nan’ao County is a popular tourist destination within Shantou, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and hiking in the area. Another notable attraction is the Shantou Ancient City, a meticulously preserved historical district that showcases traditional architecture and cultural performances.