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Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province, sits on the southern bank of the Yellow River in north-central China at about 34.7°N. Its monsoon-influenced climate brings hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters, with a concentrated rainy season from June to September. The city averages roughly 14°C (57°F) across the year and receives about 630 mm (25 in) of rain annually, most of it falling in July and August. Use this month-by-month breakdown to plan when to go, and check our best time to visit Zhengzhou guide for the ideal travel windows, or jump back to the main Zhengzhou travel guide.
Zhengzhou Weather by Month: Winter (December to February)
Winter is cold and dry. January is the coldest month, averaging a high of 5°C (41°F) and a low of -4°C (25°F). Nighttime temperatures drop below freezing on most nights, and a light snow falls a few times each winter, though it rarely accumulates for long. December and January each see only about 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, so skies are often clear, but coal heating can make the air hazy. Hotels and malls are centrally heated, but outside you’ll need a heavy coat, hat, and gloves. January and February are also when hotel prices are at their lowest, as detailed in our where to stay in Zhengzhou guide.
Zhengzhou Weather by Month: Spring (March to May)
Spring warms up fast. March averages a high of 14°C (57°F) and a low of 4°C (39°F); April climbs to 21°C (70°F), and May reaches 27°C (81°F). Rainfall rises from about 27 mm in March to 55 mm in May. April and early May are among the best weeks of the year for sightseeing, with daytime temperatures in the 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F) range and only modest rain. The main downside is wind-blown dust from the north in March and April, so a face mask and sunglasses help. Spring is a strong season for the outdoor attractions in our things to do in Zhengzhou list.
Zhengzhou Weather by Month: Summer (June to August)
Summer is hot, humid, and wet. July, the hottest month, averages a high of 32°C (90°F) and a low of 24°C (75°F), and heatwaves can push daytime highs past 38°C (100°F). This is also the rainy season: July gets about 152 mm (6 in) of rain and August about 119 mm (4.7 in), mostly as short afternoon thunderstorms, so carry an umbrella. The humidity makes 32°C feel closer to 40°C (104°F), so plan air-conditioned indoor stops like the Henan Museum during the midday heat. Summer crowds and prices are lower than the autumn peak, but the weather is the main drawback.
Zhengzhou Weather by Month: Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the most comfortable season. September still reaches a high of 27°C (81°F), but rain tapers to about 66 mm, and by October the high drops to 21°C (70°F) with crisp, dry days and clear skies. November cools to a high of 13°C (55°F) and a low of 4°C (39°F). October is the driest comfortable month, which makes it ideal for the Yellow River Scenic Area and day trips to the Shaolin Temple. Pack layers, as mornings can be cool even when afternoons stay warm through late October. Several outdoor events run in autumn, covered in our events and festivals in Zhengzhou guide.
Zhengzhou Weather: Monthly Data Table
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5°C (41°F) | -4°C (25°F) | 9 mm |
| February | 8°C (46°F) | -1°C (30°F) | 12 mm |
| March | 14°C (57°F) | 4°C (39°F) | 27 mm |
| April | 21°C (70°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 42 mm |
| May | 27°C (81°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 55 mm |
| June | 32°C (90°F) | 21°C (70°F) | 76 mm |
| July | 32°C (90°F) | 24°C (75°F) | 152 mm |
| August | 31°C (88°F) | 23°C (73°F) | 119 mm |
| September | 27°C (81°F) | 17°C (63°F) | 66 mm |
| October | 21°C (70°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 40 mm |
| November | 13°C (55°F) | 4°C (39°F) | 22 mm |
| December | 7°C (45°F) | -2°C (28°F) | 10 mm |
Zhengzhou Weather: What to Pack by Season
In winter (December to February) bring a heavy coat, thermal layers, a hat, and gloves. In spring (March to May) pack a light jacket, an umbrella, and a face mask for dusty days. In summer (June to August) bring light breathable clothing, a rain jacket or umbrella, and sunscreen. In autumn (September to November) pack light layers plus a warm jacket for November evenings. For neighborhood-specific advice on where to base yourself each season, see our Zhengzhou neighborhoods overview, and read the practical arrival tips in our Zhengzhou travel tips and FAQ page.
