Hong Kong Weather

Hong Kong is known for its remarkable skyline, bargain shopping, and unpredictable weather.  A sunny day out can end in a mad dash for cover from one of the city’s not-so-surprising-surprise downpours.  Despite having a sub-tropical climate responsible for rain year round, the city still experiences four distinct seasons.

A rainy day at Hong Kong Airport

Spring

Spring, March to May, is of the more comfortable seasons in Hong Kong.  The cool weather is gone and humidity is on the return, though it remains relatively mild.  Days are shared between blue skies and epic downfalls, some of which result in the hoisting of rainstorm warning signals.

Temperatures usually stay in the 70s (Celsius lower 20s), but may reach as high as the mid-80s (30s) by the end of the season.  Average rainfall throughout spring is 3.5-4.7 inches (9-12 cm).  Shorts and t-shirts are sufficient for warmer days, but sweaters might be a necessity on some cool evenings.

Summer

Summer runs from June through August.  It is safe to say that this is the most miserable season of the year.  The sun is hot, humidity hits like a ton of bricks, and there is always a possibility of rainstorms and typhoons – typhoon warning signals are an inevitable part of summer.

Summer month averages are a temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 Celsius) and 3-4 inches (8-10 mm) of rainfall.

On hot days it is important to check for reports from the Hong Kong Observatory as extremely high temperatures may result in the issuance of a hot weather warning.

The heat calls for shorts and t-shirts, though breathable long-sleeves or high-powered sun block are a must for anyone who burns easily.  For the rainy days, opt for an umbrella instead of a raincoat to avoid overheating like a Yugo in the Sahara.

A sunny day in Hong Kong. Photograph by Kevin Fai.

Fall

Fall, or autumn, is the nicest time to be in Hong Kong.  September to December witness low humidity and cooler temperatures, the average being 75 F (24 C).

This is the best time for outdoor activities as conditions are comfortable and sudden changes in weather are unlikely.  Rainfall averages are low, 0.8-1.2 inches (2-3 mm).  Again, shorts and t-shirts will suffice for most of the season, though some low temperatures in the evenings may require sweaters and long pants.

Winter

Late December, January, and February are the winter months.  The weather is noticeably cooler, though snow and ice storms unheard of – at most there may be a few morning frosts.

Rain is uncommon during the winter, so it is a good time to get out.  Wearing a sweater or light jacket during the day and a coat in the evenings is enough for comfort.

Locals often wear gloves and scarves, though these seem like more of a fashion accessory rather than a necessity.  Temperatures rarely merit a cold weather warning; yearly winter averages are around 63 F (17 C).

Rainfall during winter is comparable to fall with 1.2-1.6 inches (3-4 mm) being the average.