Weather in Kumul

Hami, China: Climate and Weather Year Round

Hami, also known as Kumul, is a city located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. It is situated in the eastern part of the Tarim Basin, surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains to the north and the Gobi Desert to the south. Hami has a unique climate characterized by arid desert conditions and extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year.

Climate Classification

Hami falls under the classification of a cold desert climate (BWk) according to the Köppen climate classification system. This means that the city experiences long, dry, and extremely cold winters, followed by short, hot, and dry summers.

Temperature

The temperature in Hami can vary significantly between seasons and even within a single day. Winters are bitterly cold, with average temperatures ranging from -15°C (5°F) to -20°C (-4°F) in December and January. The temperature can occasionally drop below -30°C (-22°F) during the coldest months.

Summer temperatures, on the other hand, can be scorching hot, with average highs reaching 38°C (100°F) in July and August. The highest recorded temperature in Hami was 48.3°C (118.9°F), making it one of the hottest places in China.

The temperature fluctuations are due to the city's location between the mountains and the desert. The Tianshan Mountains to the north act as a barrier, preventing the warm air from reaching Hami during the winter months. In contrast, during the summer, the desert heat is intensified by the lack of moisture and vegetation in the area.

Precipitation

Hami is known for its extremely dry climate, with very limited rainfall throughout the year. The city receives an average annual precipitation of only 34 millimeters (1.34 inches). Most of the rainfall occurs during the summer months, although it is still minimal.

The lack of rainfall is primarily due to the rain shadow effect caused by the Tianshan Mountains. The mountains block the moisture-laden air from the east, resulting in little precipitation reaching the city.

Wind

Hami experiences strong winds throughout the year, with the most intense winds occurring during the spring. These winds, known as the "Hami gales," can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) and are often accompanied by sandstorms.

Sunshine

Hami enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. This high level of sunshine is due to the city's location in the arid desert region, where clouds are scarce, and the sky remains mostly clear.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hami is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is relatively mild. Spring, specifically April and May, offers pleasant temperatures before the scorching summer heat sets in. Autumn, from September to October, provides similar mild temperatures and clearer skies.

It is important to note that the temperature fluctuations can still be significant during these seasons, so it is advisable to pack clothing suitable for both warm and cool weather.

Conclusion

Hami, China, experiences a cold desert climate with extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winters are bitterly cold, while summers are scorching hot. The city receives minimal rainfall and enjoys abundant sunshine. The best time to visit Hami is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is relatively mild.