On October 8, the “Cold Dew” solar term signals a noteworthy transition in the seasons. From Harbin, journalist Jiang Hui reports that much of Heilongjiang Province, situated in northern China, is entering what can be described as the beginning of winter according to meteorological standards. The days are getting shorter, nights are becoming longer, sunlight is diminishing, and there is a marked temperature difference between day and night.
In a weather forecast issued by the Heilongjiang Provincial Meteorological Bureau for the first day of “Cold Dew,” the entire province is expected to see mostly clear skies with occasional clouds. High temperatures will vary across the region, ranging from 7°C to 9°C in northern Daxing’anling, 12°C to 14°C in southern Daxing’anling and Heihe, and 15°C to 17°C in other parts of the province.
While “Cold Dew” signifies the official onset of autumn in many southern regions, in Heilongjiang, it marks the arrival of winter. Historical data indicate that the province often experiences winter conditions even before the “Cold Dew” solar term arrives.
Statistical analysis indicates that winter in Heilongjiang typically begins in early October. Among the 13 cities and regions in the province, the Eerguna region in northern Daxing’anling generally sees the earliest onset of winter, usually around September 18. In contrast, Qitaihe experiences the latest onset, typically beginning around October 8.
