The first day of the Dragon Boat Festival holiday (June 19) in Shanghai saw the city blanketed by heavy precipitation clouds, with widespread showers or thunderstorms across all districts and localized accumulations reaching heavy rain levels. Today's minimum temperatures across districts ranged from 22°C to 24°C, with a maximum of 29°C. Winds were southerly in the morning at force 3-4, strengthening to force 4-5 with gusts up to force 6 in the afternoon. Relative humidity remained high throughout the day at 95% to 65%, resulting in a muggy and oppressive feel.
By 9 a.m., thick cloud cover filled the sky, and being outdoors for even a short while left clothing damp with a fine layer of moisture. The camphor trees lining the paths of Xujiahui Park drooped under the weight of the damp air, with shallow puddles collecting on stone slabs, reflecting the overcast sky. Many residents, having prepared umbrellas in advance, took advantage of the festival holiday to stroll in the park.
The Shanghai Meteorological Observatory forecasts that the intensity of precipitation will weaken over the next two days, with conditions dominated by brief showers. A break in the rain is expected from tomorrow morning through the evening, with skies turning overcast to cloudy. Temperatures will generally range from 24°C to 30°C, and combined with the high humidity, the muggy sensation will persist. As this period coincides with the high school entrance exams, it is advised that students and parents allow extra travel time and prepare for both rain and heat.
Influenced by the seasonal Meiyu front, the city is expected to experience another round of relatively significant rainfall early next week. Temperatures will show little fluctuation, staying between 23°C and 29°C, continuing the characteristic feel of the Meiyu season. The public is reminded to maintain measures against dampness and humidity and to pay attention to safety at home and while traveling.