Shanghai Weather in March
China · Humid Subtropical climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
March in Shanghai sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 7.3°C (45.1°F) to a high of 16.3°C (61.3°F), with a mean of 11.4°C (52.5°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.2°C (63.0°F), this month is 5.8°C cooler than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 99.4mm, making it approximately 22.0mm drier than the monthly average of 122.0mm. The city receives an average of 6.8 hours of sunshine per day during March, with relative humidity averaging 77.0%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 19.8 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Shanghai, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Shanghai taught me that 'shoulder season' is everything here. I arrived in early June thinking it was safe — landed straight into plum rain season, three solid weeks of 28°C and 95% humidity. Pack quick-dry everything June mid-July. The real sweet spots are April-May (20°C, low rain) and October (22°C, clear skies). Skip August — typhoon season plus 33°C plus 85% humidity is brutal. Winters (December-February) are damp and cold in a way the thermometer doesn't capture; 4°C feels like -2°C with the wet chill. Bring a down jacket.
March vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | February | March | April |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 7.0°C (44.6°F) | 11.4°C (52.5°F) | 15.5°C (59.9°F) |
| Rainfall | 76.1mm | 99.4mm | 102.9mm |
| Sunshine | 5.5 hrs | 6.8 hrs | 7.6 hrs |
| Humidity | 78.1% | 77.0% | 75.6% |
| Wind | 19.1 km/h | 19.8 km/h | 19.5 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 13.0 | 16.0 | 14.0 |
| Snowfall | 0.7 cm | 0.0 cm | 0.0 cm |
Seasonal Context
March falls in Spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring is a transitional season with temperatures rising from winter lows. For travelers visiting Shanghai in March, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Shanghai in March?
The average temperature in Shanghai during March ranges from 7.3°C (45.1°F) to 16.3°C (61.3°F), with a mean of 11.4°C (52.5°F).
How much does it rain in Shanghai in March?
Shanghai receives an average of 99.4mm of precipitation in March, spread across approximately 16.0 rainy days.
What should I pack for Shanghai in March?
Based on March weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is March a good time to visit Shanghai?
March is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Shanghai
Cities with Similar March Climate (Humid Subtropical)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 31.23°, 121.47°. Timezone: Asia/Shanghai. Last updated: 2026-07-30.