Shanghai’s summer feels long, hot, and damp. Temperatures often climb well above what most people consider comfortable.
Daytime highs usually sit between 21°C and 28°C (70°F to 82°F), but the hottest days easily push past 38°C (100°F). The air feels thick with moisture, so the heat hits harder than you’d expect from the numbers.
Frequent rain is part of the deal, especially during the “Plum Rain Season” in June and early July. Showers show up quickly and humidity spikes around 80 percent.
Later in the season, typhoons sometimes develop, tossing even more unpredictability into Shanghai’s summer weather.
Even with the sticky climate, summer gives you long daylight hours, lively city nights, and a bunch of ways to stay cool. Shaded river cruises, indoor attractions—there’s always something to help you beat the heat while soaking up the city’s energy.
Overview of Summer Weather in Shanghai
Shanghai summers bring hot temperatures, high humidity, and plenty of rain. You’ll notice stretches of warm days, sudden downpours, and occasional extremes in heat.
These conditions make the season both lively and a bit challenging if you like spending time outdoors.
Key Climate Characteristics
Shanghai sits in a subtropical monsoon climate, so summers hit hard with heat, rain, and humidity. The season runs from June through August, though warm weather sometimes drags into early September.
You get long daylight hours with strong sunshine, especially in July. Late summer brings a risk of typhoons, which can mess with travel plans.
The mix of sun, heat, and heavy rain defines summer here. June brings the Meiyu or “Plum Rain” season, so expect steady showers. By August, rain comes less often, but when storms hit, they’re usually stronger.
You’ll want to plan for both sunshine and rain, since high temperatures, high humidity, and sudden weather shifts are the norm.
Temperature Ranges
Summer days usually bring temperatures between 23°C and 35°C (73°F–95°F). On the hottest days, Shanghai can top 38°C (100°F), especially in July and August.
Evenings don’t cool off much, often staying above 25°C (77°F). Nights can feel muggy if you don’t have air conditioning.
The heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, often makes things feel hotter than the thermometer says.
Here’s a quick look at average highs and lows:
| Month | Avg. Low | Avg. High |
|---|---|---|
| June | 21°C (70°F) | 28°C (82°F) |
| July | 25°C (77°F) | 33°C (91°F) |
| August | 25°C (77°F) | 32°C (90°F) |
You’ll deal with sustained warmth all day and barely any relief at night. Staying hydrated, using sun protection, and finding ways to cool off are pretty much essential when you’re out and about.
Humidity and Rainfall Patterns
Humidity in Shanghai during summer stays high, usually around 75–80%. This sticky air makes the heat feel even more intense, especially in crowded places.
Rainfall is a big part of the season. June is the wettest month thanks to the Plum Rain season, when showers can last for days.
July and August see fewer rainy days but more intense storms, sometimes fueled by tropical systems.
On average, you’ll see about 200 mm of rain over the summer months. Sudden downpours or thunderstorms can pop up and disappear just as quickly.
Because of the high humidity and frequent rainfall, carrying an umbrella or light rain gear just makes sense. Typhoons can show up in late summer, so keep an eye on the forecast if you’re planning outdoor adventures or heading near the coast.
Monthly Summer Weather Breakdown
Shanghai summers hit with heat, humidity, and rain, and things ramp up quickly as the season moves along. Rainfall, sunshine, and humidity shift from month to month, which can definitely shake up your plans.
June Weather Details
June really kicks off Shanghai’s summer heat. Average daytime temperatures run from 21°C to 28°C (70°F to 82°F), but mornings and evenings sometimes feel a bit milder.
This month also brings the Plum Rain Season (Meiyu), a stretch of persistent rainfall from mid-June to early July. Expect frequent showers, high humidity near 80%, and the occasional thunderstorm.
Rainfall totals often top 200 mm for the month.
Sunshine is limited, and cloudy skies are pretty common. Still, you get long days, so there’s plenty of daylight to explore between rain bursts.
It’s smart to carry an umbrella or light rain jacket, and maybe plan for museums or aquariums when the weather turns wet.
July Weather Details
July stands out as the hottest and wettest month in Shanghai. Daily highs usually reach 32°C (90°F), and heatwaves can easily push things above 38°C (100°F).
Nights stay warm, often above 26°C (79°F).
Rainfall remains heavy early in the month, thanks to the end of the Plum Rain Season, and then typhoon season kicks in. Sudden downpours and strong winds can happen, so it pays to check the forecast.
Humidity stays high, making the air feel sticky and heavy.
Even with the rain, July brings the most sunshine hours of the summer, usually more than 6 hours a day.
If you’re heading outside, mornings or evenings are a better bet when it comes to beating the heat.
August Weather Details
August keeps up the extreme summer heat, but rain starts to back off a bit compared to July. Highs hover around 31°C (88°F), with lows near 25°C (77°F).
Heatwaves still show up, and humidity doesn’t really let up.
Typhoons are still a risk, especially early in the month. When storms hit, they bring heavy rain and coastal winds, but usually move on in a day or two.
By late August, skies clear a bit and the weather feels more stable. Still, the mix of heat and humidity means you’ll need plenty of water and sun protection.
Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and frequent breaks are your friends if you’re out exploring.
Humidity, Rainfall, and Monsoon Season
Shanghai’s summer brings high humidity, heavy rain, and the occasional typhoon. These conditions shape how you plan your days, what you pack, and when you step outside.
Humidity Levels in Summer
Expect Shanghai’s humidity to stay above 70–80% most days. With average highs of 26–32°C (79–90°F), the air often feels hotter than the numbers show.
This kind of humidity makes outdoor activity draining, especially in the afternoon. Light, breathable fabrics and drinking plenty of water help you cope.
Air-conditioned places—shopping malls, museums, metro stations—offer a welcome break when the air gets heavy.
At night, humidity barely drops, so evenings might not bring much relief. If you’re sensitive to damp air, you’ll probably notice laundry takes forever to dry and indoor spaces without good ventilation feel clammy.
Monsoon and Rainfall Peaks
The East Asian monsoon shapes Shanghai’s summer rain. The wettest stretch falls in June and July, known as the plum rain season (梅雨).
During this time, you might get days of drizzle or sudden downpours.
Average monthly rainfall usually lands between 100–150 mm, and June racks up the most wet days. Streets can flood for a bit after heavy showers, so waterproof shoes or sandals are a good idea.
Rain can show up without much warning, so carrying a compact umbrella or raincoat is just practical.
Morning and evening walks are easier to plan, but midday storms can throw off your sightseeing. When rain won’t quit, indoor spots like aquariums, art galleries, or shopping centers make solid alternatives.
Typhoon Risks
Late summer, especially August and September, brings the risk of typhoon systems rolling in from the East China Sea.
Shanghai doesn’t get hit as often as provinces farther south, but strong winds and heavy rain still show up sometimes.
Typhoons can cause transport delays, close outdoor attractions, and lead to localized flooding. Flights and trains might get disrupted, so double-check schedules if you’re traveling during this time.
Most typhoons come with a few days’ warning. Keep an eye on local weather, follow hotel or airline updates, and steer clear of waterfront areas when strong winds are in the forecast.
Packing a waterproof bag cover or sealing electronics in plastic can save your gear during sudden storms.
Daylight Hours, Sunshine, and UV Index
Summer days in Shanghai bring long daylight, plenty of clouds, and strong sun exposure. You’ll want to watch how many daylight hours you get, how much actual sunshine breaks through, and just how high the UV index climbs during peak times.
Average Daylight Hours
Daylight increases as summer starts, peaks in June, and slowly drops toward September. In June, you get about 14 hours of daylight, with sunrise before 5:00 a.m. and sunset close to 7:00 p.m.
By July, daylight shortens just a bit, averaging about 13.5 hours. In August, you see around 13 hours. By September, it falls to about 12.5 hours.
So, you’ve got lots of time for outdoor activities in early summer, but evenings creep in sooner as the season winds down. Planning around sunrise and sunset helps you make the most of it.
Sunshine Duration
Even though daylight hours are long, clouds and rain often limit direct sunshine. In June, Shanghai averages just 4 to 5 hours of sunshine per day—even with the longest days of the year.
July usually brings a bit more sun, around 5 to 6 hours daily, but showers and humidity still stick around. August is similar, with maybe a few more clear spells.
There’s a big gap between total daylight and actual sunshine. You might get 13–14 hours of daylight, but half that can be cloudy or rainy.
The city feels bright, but not always sunny.
UV Index and Sun Protection
The UV Index in Shanghai during summer often hits high to very high levels, especially at midday. A UV Index above 7 is pretty standard, and even cloudy days don’t always block UV rays.
If you’ll be outside for a while, take precautions. Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wear UV-blocking sunglasses, and think about light, long-sleeved clothing to keep exposure down.
Peak UV hours usually run between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you can, plan indoor activities or look for shade during these times.
This is especially important if you’re not used to the strong summer sun in humid places like Shanghai.
Travel Tips for Visiting Shanghai in Summer
Shanghai summers hit with high heat, heavy humidity, and sudden rain showers. Planning ahead makes your trip way more comfortable.
Think about timing, clothes, and activities that help you stay cool while you explore.
Best Time to Visit Shanghai in Summer
Shanghai’s summer kicks off in June and lasts through August. The hottest stretch usually hits in late July or early August, with daytime highs sometimes soaring past 38 °C (100 °F). Humidity often climbs to 80%, which can make walking around outside feel downright exhausting.
If you’d rather deal with milder weather, shoot for early June before the real heat sets in. Keep in mind, though, that mid-June to early July marks the Plum Rain Season, with lots of showers and the occasional storm. Sure, it can mess up outdoor plans, but at least the temperatures usually stay a bit lower.
July and August match up with China’s long school break. You’ll notice tourist spots, trains, and hotels getting crowded, and prices often go up. To dodge the crowds, book your tickets and rooms early, or try to visit attractions first thing in the morning.
Recommended Clothing and Packing
Go with light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen shirts, shorts, and dresses. These help you stay cooler in all that humidity. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and some strong sunscreen—Shanghai’s summer sun can be brutal.
Sudden rain showers happen a lot, so toss a compact umbrella or rain jacket in your bag. Waterproof sandals or shoes that dry fast come in handy if you’re planning to walk around after the rain.
Air conditioning gets cranked up indoors, so you might want a light sweater or scarf for places like malls, museums, or trains. Staying hydrated is a must, so bring a reusable water bottle.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Rain gear: umbrella, light waterproof jacket
- Clothing: breathable shirts, shorts, sandals
- Extras: water bottle, light sweater for indoor cooling
Popular Summer Activities
You can still make the most of Shanghai in summer if you plan smart. Try a Huangpu River night cruise—you’ll catch the skyline all lit up, and the evening air feels way more comfortable than the daytime heat. The Bund and Pudong towers look incredible at night.
Indoor spots are a safe bet too. The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium gives you long underwater tunnels and chilly, air-conditioned exhibits, making it a perfect stop for families. Museums and shopping centers also let you escape both heat and rain.
If you want to get out of the city center, check out Zhujiajiao Water Town. It’s usually a bit cooler there, with shaded canals and cozy teahouses. You can wander old streets and try some local snacks while staying out of the worst of the heat.
For families or groups, Playa Maya Water Park has big pools, slides, and plenty of shade. It gets really popular in July and August, so getting there early helps you skip the long lines.
Mixing up evening cruises, indoor attractions, and water parks can help you actually enjoy summer in Shanghai without getting completely wiped out.
How Summer Compares to Other Seasons
Shanghai’s weather changes a lot over the year. Summer brings heat, heavy rain, and stickiness, while spring and autumn offer milder days, and winter turns cold and damp. Each season changes what you can comfortably do outdoors, and it really shapes when people think it’s best to visit.
Spring Versus Summer
Spring in Shanghai runs from March to May. Temperatures go from cool to warm, usually between 10°C (50°F) and 23°C (73°F). April and May bring more rain, but the humidity doesn’t get as bad as it does in summer. The weather feels better, especially if you want to stroll through parks or browse outdoor markets.
Summer, from June to August, cranks up the heat. Daily highs often sit between 28–35°C (82–95°F), and humidity easily tops 70%. The Plum Rain Season in June means steady rain, sometimes for days on end. Later in the summer, typhoons show up more often too.
If outdoor sightseeing is your thing, spring is just easier on your body. Summer does give you longer days and lively festivals, but you’ll need to plan around the heat and rain. Lots of travelers say spring is one of the best times to visit Shanghai because of the mild weather and blooming gardens.
Autumn Versus Summer
Autumn in Shanghai, from September through November, gets called the city’s nicest season for a reason. Temperatures drop to 15–25°C (59–77°F), and the humidity backs off. Rain falls less often, and the skies clear up. It’s perfect for walking along the Bund, checking out temples, or taking day trips to nearby water towns.
Compared to summer, autumn feels cooler, drier, and just calmer. You won’t have to deal with June’s heavy rain or the crazy heat of July and August. Air quality usually gets better during this stretch too.
If you want good weather without the crowds, autumn is probably your best bet for Shanghai. Summer has a lot of energy with all the student vacations and events, but autumn makes sightseeing a lot more comfortable.
Winter Versus Summer
Winter in Shanghai runs from December through February. Highs usually hover around 8–10°C (46–50°F), and lows sometimes drop near freezing.
Snow almost never shows up, but that damp air? It sneaks in and, without much central heating in the buildings, everything feels colder than you’d expect.
Winter feels much drier and gloomier compared to summer. Rain doesn’t fall as often, but short days and chilly winds can really keep you inside.
You’ll probably notice the streets get quieter, and tourist spots seem pretty empty.
If you’re after lower prices and don’t mind fewer crowds, winter could be your thing. But honestly, the cold and damp might put a damper on outdoor adventures.
Summer brings more daylight and a lively vibe. Winter, though, is nice if you want to slow down and check out indoor spots or just take it easy.