In 2025, China faced one of its warmest and wettest years on record. This information comes from the China Climate Bulletin 2025, released by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), which highlighted dramatic weather changes across the nation.
The average temperature in China hit 10.9°C, a full degree above the norm from 1991 to 2020. This ties with 2024 as the hottest year since records began in 1951. Throughout the year, every season experienced higher than average temperatures. Notably, summer 2025 was the hottest ever recorded, while winter brought unusual temperature swings and an alarming rise in extreme heat days.
Shifts in rainfall were also significant. China’s average annual precipitation reached 668 mm, about 4.5% higher than normal. This makes 2025 a notably wet year, but rainfall varied widely. Northern regions received more rain, while the south saw less. Key highlights include:
- Record-breaking rainfall and the longest rainy season in North China.
- The highest autumn rainfall recorded in western China.
- Frequent summer rainfall events that were particularly intense.
- Fewer total days of precipitation—this was the third-lowest on record.
Even with all the rain, the overall drought conditions were mild, though they did change by region and season.
Notably, the number of typhoons that formed and made landfall surpassed the long-term average, leading to localized flooding and infrastructure issues. While fewer severe weather events occurred, those that did had a substantial impact. Cold air events remained normal, but cold wave occurrences were higher than usual, with the number of gale days reaching levels not seen since 1991. These conditions posed risks to transport, agriculture, and energy sectors.
The CMA stressed that these patterns highlight the growing impact of climate change on China. As temperatures rise and weather shifts, there are increasing risks to water supply, food production, and public health. Experts suggest that improved climate monitoring, early warning systems, and plans to adapt to these changes are crucial. The ongoing rise in climate variability means that enhancing resilience and preparedness will be vital in reducing the impact of future climate extremes.
Additionally, studies show that the frequency of extreme weather events is expected to keep rising. A recent study from the World Bank indicates that such events could increase by 50% in the coming decades if current trends continue. This emphasizes the urgency for countries like China to adapt and prepare.
In summary, 2025 was a year of significant climatic shifts in China, marked by heat and heavy rainfall. As society faces these challenges, collaboration and proactive measures are essential for future resilience.
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China, Climate Change, Extreme Weather, Heatwaves, Rainfall, China Meteorological Administration, Climate Bulletin, Disaster Risk, Environment
