Suzhou has a subtropical monsoon maritime climate with four distinct seasons and a mild and humid climate. The average temperature in 2024 was 18.3°C, and the annual precipitation was 1583.9 mm. Summers are hot and rainy, while winters are mild and dry.
Climate Type and Characteristics
Suzhou is located in East China, in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta Plain. Its typical subtropical monsoon maritime climate is characterized by four distinct seasons and simultaneous rainfall and heat. Regulated by the waters of Taihu Lake and influenced by the East Asian monsoon, the climate is milder and wetter than inland areas at the same latitude.
Seasonal Characteristics and Temperature Range
Spring (March-May): Temperatures rise rapidly, with average temperatures between 10-20°C, frequent spring rains, and occasional late spring cold snaps.
Summer (June-August): Temperatures are hot and rainy, with average temperatures between 25-33°C, and extreme highs reaching over 36°C (e.g., 36°C recorded on August 30, 2025). Precipitation is concentrated during the plum rain season.
Autumn (September-November): Cool and dry, with temperatures gradually dropping to 15-28°C and a widening difference between day and night.
Winter (December-February): Mild with little rain, averaging temperatures between 3-8°C, with sub-zero temperatures rare, and little snowfall.
Precipitation and Humidity
Annual Precipitation: Recent data has fluctuated between 1000-1600 mm (1406.8 mm in 2023, 1583.9 mm in 2024), with summer accounting for approximately 40%.
Humidity Characteristics: Average annual relative humidity is approximately 75%-84%, with hot and humid summers and moderate winters.