Snow at Rush Hour? Shanghai Faces -7°C Cold Snap After Record Warmth

Shanghai is bracing for a sharp weather reversal after recording its warmest Lichun (Start of Spring) in nearly 80 years, with suburban temperatures expected to dip to around minus 7 degrees Celsius and snow likely to return, meteorological authorities said.

A strong cold front will move in early Friday, bringing gusty winds and a sharp drop in temperatures. Daytime highs are expected to stay below 6 degrees, with damp conditions adding to the chill, while rain dominates through much of the day.

By evening, rain is expected to transition to wet snow. While urban areas may see light accumulation, western and northern districts could record 1 to 3 centimeters. The shift may coincide with the evening rush hour, increasing the risk of slick, muddy roads and travel disruption.

Conditions are expected to turn clearer over the weekend, though cold weather will persist. Minimum temperatures may fall to around minus 2 degrees in urban areas and between minus 7 and minus 5 degrees in suburban districts, potentially marking the coldest spell of the winter so far.

Looking ahead, next week is forecast to bring rain early and late in the week, with a drier break in between. Temperatures are expected to recover gradually, with highs reaching 12-15 degrees by the middle to latter part of the week.

Meteorological authorities warned that road icing may occur from Friday night into Saturday morning. With snow, low temperatures, and gusty winds combining, residents are advised to plan ahead and take extra care.