On October 18, a strong cold front began to impact most regions north of the Yangtze River in China, with some areas experiencing temperature drops exceeding 14°C. The Central Meteorological Observatory predicts that between October 21 and 23, another wave of cold air will hit, bringing temperature declines of up to 10°C in certain spots, leading to a potential record low for the season along and north of the Yangtze River, with local rain and snow transitions expected.
Following the onset of this cold air on the 18th, many regions experienced dramatic temperature plummets. Monitoring data indicated that by 5 a.m. on October 20, temperatures in eastern and southern North China, central and western Huanghuai, Jianghuai, western Jianghan, and parts of northern and eastern Jiangnan along with northern Shaanxi had dropped by 6 to 10°C compared to the previous day.
On October 20, maximum temperatures in North China are expected to hover around 10°C. In Hohhot, the high will only be 7°C, while Shijiazhuang will see a maximum of 9°C. Notably, Beijing’s morning low is predicted to fall to the freezing mark, marking the first time this season that temperatures have dipped to this level.
The Central Meteorological Observatory anticipates that from October 21 to 23, a new cold air mass will move from the eastern Northwest region across much of China, leading to temperature reductions of 4 to 8°C, and in some areas, declines exceeding 10°C. The lowest temperatures in regions such as Northwest, North China, and Huanghuai will continue to set new records since the start of autumn.
At the same time, temperatures in southern regions will also take a significant dip. From October 23 to 25, many areas in the middle and lower Yangtze River region are expected to see morning lows around 10°C, signaling an unmistakable arrival of autumn for local residents.
As this cold air influences the eastern parts of the country, a new widespread rain and snow event is forecasted to develop from west to east, potentially bringing rain-snow mix in certain areas north of the Yangtze River.
According to the Central Meteorological Observatory, from October 20 to 22, affected areas—including eastern Southwest China, Jianghan, North China, most of Northeast China, Huanghuai, and Jianghuai—are likely to experience light to moderate rain or snow. Significant rainfall is anticipated in certain regions such as northern Guizhou, eastern Chongqing, northwest Hunan, the Shandong Peninsula, and northeast areas, with localized areas facing heavy downpours. Additionally, light to moderate snow or sleet is expected in parts of central and eastern Inner Mongolia, northern Shanxi, northwest Hebei, western and northern Beijing, and northwest Heilongjiang, with areas in northeastern Inner Mongolia and northwest Heilongjiang potentially seeing heavy to severe snow.
Experts advise the public to exercise caution regarding travel safety as the extensive rain and snow events unfold. With successive cold fronts arriving, people are urged to stay aware of temperature fluctuations and dress appropriately to avoid catching a cold.
