Home / Environment / China Swelters in Record Heat Amidst Torrential Rains
China Swelters in Record Heat Amidst Torrential Rains
27 Sep
Summary
- China experienced record-high temperatures and precipitation in 2025.
- A 72-day heatwave affected over 40% of weather stations nationwide.
- Rainfall increased significantly, with less frequent but more intense downpours.
In 2025, China contended with a year of contrasting extremes, officially tying 2024 as the warmest year since records began in 1961. This period was characterized by an unprecedented number of scorching days, yet it also saw above-normal precipitation. The national average temperature climbed significantly, with all provinces reporting warmer-than-normal conditions. Weather stations recorded a record number of days at or above 95°F (35°C).
A significant 72-day heatwave gripped central and eastern China from late June to early September, with over 40% of national weather stations registering temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C). Autumn also brought heatwaves, referred to as the "autumn tiger." Simultaneously, rainfall nationwide was 4.5% above normal, though it fell harder and less frequently. Beijing notably experienced its wettest year since 1961.
The intensity of rainfall led to significant flooding in various regions, particularly in North China and the Haihe River Basin, which saw record water levels in Miyun Reservoir. Autumn also brought record-breaking rain to western China, delaying harvests and impacting winter wheat planting. Typhoons also made landfall more frequently than average, with two notable storms impacting coastal areas.
Despite the frequent extreme weather events, including numerous cold waves, dust storms, and strong winds, overall meteorological disaster losses in 2025 were reported to be lower than the 2015-2024 average. The report, however, did not elaborate on the reasons for this reduction or the underlying causes of the extreme weather, calling for further research.
