Beijing Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Beijing, Beijing Area, China. The numbers reflect climate data gathered over a 30-year period, from 1990 to 2020. Now, let's explore all the details to give you a full picture.
On average, Beijing receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 560 mm (22 in). Despite this overall moderate level, the city experiences distinct dry season during certain months throughout the year, as illustrated in the precipitation charts below.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
Beijing can be quite wet during July, receiving approximately 161 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.
In contrast January, experiences much drier conditions, with 4 mm (0.2 in) of snowfall, spread across 2 snowy days.July, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 34°C (93°F). The city receives 195 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month January you can expect a temperature of 3°C (37°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Beijing Temperature page.
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Explore Beijing's Historical Precipitation: 1976-2026
Browse day-by-day precipitation records for Beijing spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual rainfall and snowfall recorded on each day.
Annual Rainfall in China: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across China. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
low
almost none
Beijing vs World: Rainfall Compared
Beijing's average annual precipitation is 560 mm (22 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
The city of Rome, Italy, has an average annual precipitation of 832 mm (33 in), spread fairly evenly throughout the year.
Beijing, China, receives 560 mm (22 in) of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.
Perth, Australia, receives 565 mm (22 in) of rainfall annually, mostly during the winter months.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, receives 1955 mm (77 in) of annual rainfall, with a pronounced wet season from May to November, typical of its tropical monsoon climate.
Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.
Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.
Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Beijing:
- Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
- Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
- The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
- Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
- A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.
For more detailed information about Beijing's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Beijing Climate page.
