Weather in Shantou

Shantou, China: Climate and Weather Year Round

Shantou is a coastal city located in the southern part of Guangdong Province, China. With its strategic location on the eastern coast of the South China Sea, Shantou experiences a subtropical monsoon climate characterized by hot and humid summers, mild and dry winters, and abundant rainfall throughout the year.

Temperature

The temperature in Shantou varies significantly throughout the year. Summers, from June to August, are hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching around 33°C (91°F). The humidity during this period can be quite high, making it feel even hotter. Winters, from December to February, are mild and relatively dry, with average low temperatures around 15°C (59°F).

Precipitation

Shantou receives a substantial amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring between May and September. The city experiences a monsoon season during this period, with abundant rainfall driven by the southwest monsoon. The average annual precipitation in Shantou is approximately 1,700 millimeters (67 inches), making it one of the wettest cities in southern China.

Typhoons

Shantou is also prone to typhoons, especially during the summer and early autumn months. Typhoons are tropical cyclones that can bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential damage to the region. The peak typhoon season in Shantou typically occurs between July and September, with August being the month most susceptible to typhoon activity.

Sunshine Hours

Despite the high amount of rainfall, Shantou still receives a considerable number of sunshine hours throughout the year. On average, Shantou experiences around 1,900 hours of sunshine annually, with the sunniest months being from November to February.

Seasonal Overview

Here is a detailed breakdown of the climate and weather in Shantou throughout the year:

Spring (March to May):

Spring in Shantou is characterized by gradually rising temperatures and increasing rainfall. The average high temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) in March to 29°C (84°F) in May. It is advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this season due to the possibility of rain showers.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is the hottest and most humid season in Shantou. Average high temperatures range from 31°C (88°F) in June to 33°C (91°F) in August. The humidity can make it feel even hotter, so it is essential to stay hydrated and seek shade when necessary.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn in Shantou brings relief from the heat and humidity of summer. Average high temperatures range from 29°C (84°F) in September to 25°C (77°F) in November. This season is generally mild and pleasant, with lower chances of rainfall compared to summer.

Winter (December to February):

Winter in Shantou is relatively mild and dry. Average low temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in December to 17°C (63°F) in February. While it is not as cold as some northern regions of China, it is still advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Climate Data

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of Shantou's climate, here is a table showcasing average monthly temperature and rainfall data:

Month	Average High Temperature (°C)	Average Low Temperature (°C)	Average Monthly Rainfall (mm)
January	18	11	26
February	18	12	46
March	22	15	69
April	26	19	109
May	29	23	191
June	31	25	248
July	32	26	244
August	33	26	232
September	29	24	139
October	27	21	55
November	24	17	29
December	20	13	24

Conclusion

Shantou experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with hot and humid summers, mild and dry winters, and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The city is also prone to typhoons during the summer and early autumn months. Visitors to Shantou should be prepared for high temperatures and humidity during the summer, while mild temperatures and lower chances of rainfall can be expected during the winter.