Shanghai sits at the mouth of the Yangtze River on China’s central coast, a region regularly affected by typhoons between June and September, and receives around 1,150 mm (about 45 inches) of rain a year, with a distinct early-summer plum rain (meiyu) season adding sustained, humid rainfall before typhoon season begins. Because the city is built on low, flat, reclaimed land near both the river delta and the East China Sea, it faces a layered flood risk from direct rainfall, storm surge, and elevated river levels, all of which can occur together when a typhoon makes a close approach. The city has invested significantly in flood barriers and drainage upgrades, but the most intense storms can still cause disruptive street flooding, particularly in older districts. Given how quickly a typhoon’s track and strength can change as it approaches the coast, radar imagery is a key real-time tool used alongside official typhoon warnings. The China Meteorological Administration operates the national weather radar network covering the Shanghai region.
Learn more: Hurricane Season Radar Guide · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Shanghai right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Shanghai in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Shanghai, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Shanghai rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Shanghai?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over China are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Shanghai or pass by.
Is this Shanghai rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.