Refer China: Severe Cold Wave to Hit Eastern China ： Temperatures to Drop 10°C+

A significant cold front from Dec 30, 2025, to Jan 2, 2026

Severe Cold Wave to Hit Eastern China: Temperatures to Drop 10°C+

On December 28, Shanghai officially entered winter, a milestone marked by a dramatic shift in weather. Just hours later, at 4 p.m., the Central Meteorological Observatory issued an Important Weather Alert predicting a significant cold front from December 30, 2025, to January 2, 2026.

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This strong cold wave is expected to sweep across central and eastern China, with temperatures in some regions dropping by more than 10°C. The alert warns of strong winds (force 4–5), with gusts reaching up to force 8 in many areas. Coastal waters in the east and south may experience even stronger gusts, peaking at force 11 in localized southeastern sea regions.

Heavy snow is forecast for regions including southern Shaanxi, southern Shanxi, western Henan, and western Hubei, where snowfall could accumulate up to 20mm in high-altitude zones, with local snow depths increasing by 12–20 cm.

Shanghai's Forecast: Wet to Cold to Colder

For Shanghai, the effects will be noticeable starting midweek. The clash of cold and warm air will bring rainfall and plummeting temperatures during the New Year's Eve period. On Thursday, temperatures will hover between 5–8°C with light rain during the day, tapering off at night.

After January 2, skies are expected to clear but the cold will persist. Morning temperatures in the city will dip to 1–2°C, and suburbs may experience sub-zero readings.

As the New Year holiday nears, the public is urged to pay close attention to updates on weather and road conditions. This strong cold snap could disrupt travel plans, so warm clothing and flexibility are key for those heading out during the break.

Source: 新闻坊