Kashgar Climate

Because of the complex terrain that brings large differences of climate, the climate of Kashgar prefecture could be divided into five part.

Firstly, the Kashgar plain climate zones which include northern Kashgar and central alluvial plains. The annual average temperature varies from 11.4 ℃ to 11.7 ℃, with the annual precipitation of from 39 to 664 mm. Those areas see distinct four seasons, with large temperature changes and differences as well as varied rainfall changes. Besides, long time of sunshine, arid climate and quick evaporation are main features. Winters come with long and low-temperature days; summers come with long and hot-weather days. Springs take on fast temperature increasing, with cold spell, strong wind and sandstorm usually. For autumns, they are short but with quick temperature decline.

Secondly, the desert climate zones in deserts. Southern Kashgar, east of Makit County and northeast of Yecheng County belong to the Taklamakan Desert areas, with distinct continental climate. The annual average temperature is above 11 ℃. Winters are cold and summers are severe hot, with little rainfall, arid climate, much winds and sand as well as strong sunlight. The annual precipitation is under 40 mm.

Thirdly, the hilly climate zones which cover central Kargilik County, Bachu County and northern Peyziwat County, Shufu County, Yengisar County and western areas of Yarkant County which has the altitude from 1,500 to 3,000 meters. The annual average temperature is 11 ℃, with long winters and short summers. The annual precipitation is over 70 mm, mainly concentrating in the summer and sometimes even seeing the heavy rain storm and floods. The river valley areas of mountainous areas enjoy appropriate climate. It is neither too hot in summers nor too cold in winters.

Then, climate region of the Pamirs, mainly in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County. The annual average temperature is below 5 ℃, with long and cold winters, and summers experience moderate climate. The rainfall is little, mainly concentrating in the springs and summers. Many windy days, sufficient sunlight, strong radiation and sunny days are experienced.

Finally, the Kunlun Mountain climate region, mainly in southern Tashikuergan Tajik Autonomous County and southern Kargilik County. The annual average temperature is below 5 ℃, with the whole year’ s snow courage on peaks. Cold days, dried air, infrabar, oxygen deficit, strong winds, much snow and varied weather are all the main characteristics. The whole year could be divided into hot and cold two seasons.

Advice

Kashgar sees large day and night temperature differences. The mean temperature of day and night in summers is respectively 30 ℃ and 17 ℃. For autumns, it is 27 ℃ and 13 ℃. Therefore, take suitable clothes with you.

For those who might visit Lake Karakuri, Muztagh Ata Peak or Khunjerab Pass, even in summers the temperature of night could drop below zero.