Dunhuang Climate & Weather

In the depths of Inland China, Dunhuang has the distinct features of a semi-arid climate. It has no shortage of direct sun-shine and there is very little rainfall; the annual average rainfall here is only 39.9 mm. The annual average temperature is about 9.3 degrees C. The region has four distinct seasons, with a huge variation in temperatures between Summer and Winter.

 

Spring is transient with sharp temperature swings. Summer is short and hot, but not sweltering. Autumn witnesses rapid temperature drops from its peak in July.

 

Winter here is long and cold, but not freezing, with relatively little snow and rain. Travellers, hikers and the like are strongly advised to bring along thick overcoats in the mercurial winter months. It is recommended that you wear a light top with long sleeves in Summer and a hat to protect from strong UV radiation.

 

Powerful sand storms can be a problem in Dunhuang, with wind-speeds of up to 120kmh.

 

The best time to visit Dunhuang and the ancient Silk Road is from May to October.

 

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High (℃)	-1.7	4.3	13.3	21.1	26.7	31.0	32.8	32.0	26.5	18.8	8.1	0.2
Average Low (℃)	-15.6	-11.3	-3.4	3.9	9.3	13.5	16.1	14.8	8.2	0.4	-6.0	-12.9