Shanghai Spring? Mercury to Soar Above 20°C, Air Quality Improves

Shanghai is set for a notable warm-up, with daytime highs expected to climb above 20 degrees Celsius from Friday, meteorological authorities said.

Weather conditions tomorrow will be similar to today, though morning temperatures are forecast to dip lower, ranging from 5 to 15 degrees.

A stronger rise is expected on Friday, when highs could reach 20 to 21 degrees, bringing a brief spell of spring-like warmth.

The warming trend, however, will be short-lived. Cloud cover is expected to increase on Saturday, with scattered light rain possible in some areas.

A new cold air mass is forecast to arrive on Sunday, bringing stronger winds, falling temperatures, and occasional showers. Daytime highs on Sunday are expected to range between 8 and 13 degrees.

Air quality is also expected to improve. An air quality forecast released by meteorological authorities at 5pm today showed Shanghai's air quality in the "good" to "excellent" range on Thursday and Friday.

Earlier today, Shanghai recorded a brief pollution episode, with PM2.5 levels reaching light to moderate pollution. The city's air quality index briefly rose to about 140 in the afternoon, reducing visibility in parts of the city and prompting residents to report noticeable odors in the air.

Authorities advised residents to adjust clothing accordingly. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and people with heart or respiratory conditions, are advised to limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity and monitor air quality updates.