Foreign tourists are in light summer clothing, enjoying a stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall.
Shanghai is expected to see a scorching 36 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, potentially the city's first official high-temperature day of the year.
The sunny streak will continue on Wednesday, though the temperature will drop slightly to 34 degrees.
The hot and dry air will make outdoor conditions feel oppressive, and residents are urged to stay cool and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Shanghai's first high-temperature day (defined as reaching or exceeding 35 degrees Celsius) usually arrives around June 26. Last year, it came on July 2, while in 2023 it was early – on May 29. This year's first potential high-temperature day is right on the cusp, making Tuesday's weather a significant seasonal marker.
Moisture not far behind
With the rain finally taking a break, many are wondering: Is the plum rain season over? Not quite.
Despite the recent lull, meteorologists say it's too early to call an end. Shanghai entered the rainy season unusually early on June 7 this year, and while the rain has slowed, the average end date isn't until around July 10.
Since entering the plum rain season, daily rainfall has been almost constant and, as of today, Xujiahui Station has recorded a total rainfall of 183.4mm, close to the seasonal average.
Damp conditions may return on Thursday as the subtropical high shifts and the rain belt presses southward. Humidity will rise again, with more cloudy skies and showers expected – bringing back a sticky, muggy feeling.
People walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall on a rainy day. Shanghai may be enjoying a temporary break from the rain – but the heat is here now, and the moisture may not be far behind.
Across the country, severe weather alerts are in place.
The China Meteorological Administration has issued blue warnings for strong winds and heavy rainfall.
From June 16 to 18, parts of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Gansu and Qinghai will face gusts up to Level 8 or 9. Coastal waters in the East China Sea and near Taiwan will also see turbulent conditions.
Heavy rain is forecast for Guangdong, Guangxi, southern Jiangxi and parts of Fujian, with localized downpours up to 180mm, alongside thunderstorms and short bursts of extreme rain.
Shanghai may be enjoying a temporary break from the rain – but the heat is here now, and the moisture may not be far behind.