At 2 pm on Sunday, the maximum temperature at Xujiahui observatory in Shanghai reached 28.5 C, setting a new record for early March. Some suburban areas, such as Baoshan and Qingpu, recorded temperatures exceeding 29 C, according to local meteorological authorities.

Residents said it felt like “summer arrived in an instant.” The meteorological authorities warned that rain and thunderstorms are likely on Monday, with temperatures expected to plummet by 15 degrees. 

Residents are advised to take precautions against temperature fluctuations and dress accordingly.

Driven by strong warm and humid air currents, temperatures across the city ranged from 27 C to 29 C on Saturday. The Xujiahui observatory recorded a high of 28 C, setting a record for the highest early March temperature (March 1-5) since temperature records began in 1873 in the city, according to the Shanghai Meteorological Service.

All suburban areas also surpassed previous records for this period, said the meteorological authorities.

The Shanghai Meteorological Service said that warm and humid air currents will persist on Sunday.

A strong cold air mass will begin affecting the city on Sunday night, bringing a significant temperature drop and occasional showers. Gusts on land are expected, marking the start of a period of precipitation and cooling, meteorological authorities said.