The city of Taicang turned sultry on July 13, according to its meteorology office, and in response many women could be seen donning summer hats and sun glasses and holding umbrellas to keep away the scorching sun, out on the streets.

But, before that, there was the plum rain, which this year started, on June 15, rather normal compared to previous records, and lasted for 28 days, or four days longer than the average.

During the late rainy season, Taiang endured three downpours and had a larger amount of rainfall than in previous years. Because of typhoon Chan Hom, it had a "cold" plum rain season, with a comparatively lower average temperature of 23.4 Celsius degree, which was somewhat uncommon.

Fully dressed motorbike rider speeds along in Taicang on July 13, clad in straw hat tied under her chin, sunscreen blouse and white mittens attached to the handlebars. [Photo by Taicang Daily]