China Braces for Strongest Rainfall Yet as North Heats Up

By Billy Jiang, May 26, 2025

Starting May 27, China is set to face a dramatic split in weather—the south braces for its strongest rainfall of the year, while the north welcomes a surge in temperatures, with parts of the northeast eyeing their first 30°C days of 2025.

Let’s break it down.

Southern China: Heavy Rain and ‘Dragon Boat Rain’ Incoming

Rainstorm forecasts for May 27-29. Image via China Meteorological Administration

After a relatively calm weekend, the China Meteorological Administration has issued warnings for a major rainstorm system to sweep across the south from May 27 to 29.

The provinces of Guizhou, Guangxi, Guangdong, Hunan, Jiangxi, Fujian, and Zhejiang are forecast to experience heavy to torrential rainfall, with some areas at risk of extreme downpours and severe weather including thunderstorms, strong winds, and even hail.

Prepare for downpours if you plan to visit Xishuangbanna in Yunnan this week. Image by Billy Jiang/That's

The 28th is expected to be the peak of the storm, with widespread coverage of heavy rain and possible flooding in most parts of Yunnan Province.

Meteorologists say this round of rain likely signals the start of the South China Monsoon, marking the beginning of the region’s 'Dragon Boat Rain' season—named for the heavy early summer rains that often occur around the Dragon Boat Festival period.

Northern China: Summer Comes Early

High temperature alerts for northeastern China. Image via China Meteorological Administration

While umbrellas open in the south, northeastern China and parts of Inner Mongolia are about to crank up the air conditioning.

The temperature in Harbin is expected to hit 30°C for the first time this year. Image by Billy Jiang/That's

From May 27 onward, temperatures in cities like Harbin and Shenyang are expected to hit 30°C for the first time this year, with the heat wave spreading to Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, and Henan.

In some areas, temperatures may rise above 35°C, with Shijiazhuang forecast to reach 34°C on May 28, and Beijing expected to hit 32°C by the 29th, both well above the seasonal average.

A Mixed Bag for Dragon Boat Holiday Travel

As China heads into a three-day Dragon Boat Festival holiday, the weather could play spoiler—or surprise.

If you’re heading to Yunnan or other parts of southern China, prepare for downpours, slippery roads, and possible disruptions.

Pack sunscreen if you plan to visit Inner Mongolia this holiday. Image via That's

But if you’re planning a getaway to northern destinations, including Inner Mongolia’s grasslands or cities in the northeast, expect an early taste of summer—pack sunscreen and hydrate.

Whether you’re soaking up the sun or sheltering from the rain, stay safe and enjoy the long weekend.

Got Dragon Boat plans? Let us know—and don’t forget to follow our official WeChat account, ThatsGBA, for weather updates and holiday travel tips.

[Cover image via Pexels]