As we transition into the heart of October, a powerful cold front is making its presence felt across eastern and central China. Over the next two days, from October 19 to 20, this cold air mass will continue its southward movement, bringing not only strong winds but also a significant drop in temperatures—particularly in the central and eastern regions, where many places may record their lowest temperatures since the onset of autumn.
According to weather reports, the cold front started to influence a substantial part of central and eastern China yesterday. Regions from Northeast China down to the Huanghuai area are experiencing notable temperature declines, some accompanied by gusty winds. Monitoring data indicates that by 5 AM on the 19th, temperatures dropped by 6°C to 12°C in areas like Inner Mongolia, northern and eastern North China, and parts of Shandong and Jiangsu. Some areas in northern Hebei, central and northern Liaoning, and northeastern Heilongjiang have seen drops exceeding 14°C.
Today, the cold front is expected to continue pushing south, leading to even lower high temperatures across many regions. In particular, from October 19 to 20, temperatures in northeastern, northern, and Huanghuai areas will fall 6°C to 8°C below typical averages for this time of year. In southern Hebei, southern Liaoning, and northern Shandong, records may show particularly low temperatures, with the city of Taiyuan projected to reach just 6°C on the 20th—setting a new record low for mid-October. Meanwhile, Beijing and Tianjin are expected to see high temperatures around 10°C, significantly lower than usual.
The drop in temperatures is not limited to daytime highs; nighttime lows are also set to plunge. By this morning, the 10°C threshold will likely have shifted southward to the Huai River, with the freezing line reaching northern Hebei. In areas of eastern Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Jilin, and northern Liaoning, lows could dip below -5°C, ushering in a biting chill.
Looking ahead, it’s anticipated that until October 22, the cold air will remain strong across northern regions, resulting in below-normal temperatures ranging from 2°C to 4°C. Additionally, from October 20 to 22, another cold front is expected to sweep in from the west, prompting the public to stay alert for weather changes and prepare for colder conditions.
Meanwhile, a new round of precipitation will also be making its way through central and eastern China this weekend. After advancing yesterday, the rainfall patterns have generally shifted eastward, albeit with reduced intensity. Monitoring indicates that from 8 AM on the 18th to 6 AM on the 19th, heavy rain and even extreme downpours were observed in parts of northern and eastern Guizhou, southern Sichuan, central Hunan, northern Jiangxi, and southeast Zhejiang, with certain areas experiencing significant rainfall.
From today until the 21st, as a new upper-level trough moves east, expect another wave of precipitation to develop. However, this round appears to bring milder conditions compared to previous systems, with the strongest rainfall confined mainly to the Sichuan Basin.
In detail, the China Meteorological Administration forecasts light snow or sleet in parts of northwest Inner Mongolia, northern Xinjiang, and northern and eastern Tibet today. Expected moderate to heavy snow could impact parts of northern Xinjiang, eastern and southern Tibet, while areas of Inner Mongolia and the northeast should anticipate increased rainfall.
As tomorrow approaches, regions in eastern Inner Mongolia, western Heilongjiang, eastern Tibet, and northern Shaanxi may see light snow or sleet. Rainfall is also expected across vast areas such as the northeast, North China, Huanghuai, and Jianghuai regions, with some areas receiving moderate to heavy rain.
It’s important to note that during this new wave of precipitation, various parts of the northwest, and western and northern North China might experience mixed rain and snow conditions, especially as the system progresses.
The China Weather Network advises the public to remain vigilant this weekend, as the cold front will bring drastic temperature drops, and some regions may face extreme winds. Citizens are encouraged to dress warmly and exercise caution in windy conditions. Wet roads and decreased visibility due to rain and snow will also necessitate careful travel considerations.
