Breaking the tradition of chilly temperatures during Sanjiu, the third nine-day period after the winter solstice, Hangzhou recently experienced an unexpected warm spell, treating locals and tourists to spring-like weather with temperatures reaching 16 degrees Celsius.

According to forecasts, during the Sanjiu period from Jan 9 to 17, temperatures in many parts of China are expected to be higher than usual, with some southern regions feeling as mild as March.

While the first day saw unusually high temperatures, a new cold air mass is expected to follow, causing a slump in temperatures on Jan 10 and 11. However, post Jan 14, the highest temperature in the province is predicted to hit 20°C, making for some wild temperature shifts.