Falling within a temperate zone, Hohhot belongs to a semi-arid climate that is characterized by little and uneven precipitation. Summer here are fairly warm, with highest temperatures of around 39 ℃. Winters are long and freezing, with the city averaging about 100 frost free days per annum. Temperatures have been recorded as low as -45℃.
Another feature of the Hohhot weather is the sharp temperature swings that occur daily. The temperature often falls 10 to 15 degrees at night, making long sleeved clothing useful even in the summer months. The city is also hit by droughts and sandstorms in spring and blizzards in winter, seasonal problems that are a nightmare for farmers.