As Shanghai gears up for the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, it is bracing for a dramatic change in the weather.
While Thursday's clear skies and pleasant warmth made for an idyllic late spring day, a wave of rainstorms and strong winds is poised to sweep through the city just in time for the long weekend, with heavy rain expected to drench the city on Children's Day, June 1.
According to the latest forecast from the Shanghai Meteorological Bureau, the holiday period from May 31 to June 2 will bring frequent showers, gusty winds, and cooler temperatures.
The heaviest rainfall is predicted for June 1, when torrential downpours and occasional thunderstorms may cause localized flooding in some areas.
Forecasters are urging residents to take precautions, especially when traveling with children or elderly family members.
Friday: From sunshine to storm clouds
Friday is expected to stay mostly sunny with light easterly winds shifting southeast by noon.
Temperatures will rise to a summer-like 30 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest day of the week before the weather turns.
A wet and windy festival forecast
The first signs of the changing weather will appear on May 31 (Dragon Boat Festival), with cloud cover increasing and scattered showers developing overnight.
Daytime highs will reach around 28 degrees Celsius, but by the evening, the city will start to feel the effects of the approaching storm.
On June 1, heavy to torrential rain is expected across the city, accompanied by strong southeast winds of up to Level 7 on land and up to Level 9-10 along the coast and over water.
Temperatures will dip to 23 degrees Celsius, and the wet, blustery weather may disrupt outdoor holiday plans and traditional festivities.
Unsettled weather will persist into June 2, with showers in the morning before gradually easing to cloudy skies later in the day. Temperatures will range between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius, with continued gusty winds.
Travel cautions and holiday preparations
Shanghai's railway stations are gearing up for a surge in holiday travel, with an expected 2.385 million passengers over the five-day holiday period.
May 31 is expected to see the highest passenger flow, with over 650,000 travelers moving through the city's railway hubs.
To accommodate demand, 75 extra trains will be added on popular routes, and stations will increase security staffing, volunteer services, and family-friendly activities in waiting areas.
Travelers heading to neighboring areas should pay attention to regional forecasts.
The Yangtze River Delta region will experience varied conditions during the holiday: the central and southern areas are expected to see frequent showers and thunderstorms, while the northern part will remain mostly cloudy to overcast.
By the second half of the holiday, rainfall will drive temperatures down across the region.
Authorities are warning of reduced visibility during rainy periods and intermittent low-visibility weather, which could affect road, rail, and air traffic.
Travelers are advised to plan ahead, monitor forecasts closely, and allow extra time for journeys.
Looking ahead
After the stormy holiday period, Shanghai's weather is expected to stabilize from June 3 to 7, with predominantly cloudy skies and a return to summer warmth. Temperatures will range from 21–30 degrees Celsius, bringing a noticeable rise in humidity and heat.
For now, Shanghai residents and visitors are urged to keep umbrellas and light jackets handy, and prepare for a wet and windy start to the festive weekend.
Where to have fun during the holiday? Click here to see a rich array of activities in the city.