Spatial and temporal variations in annual and seasonal average temperature in Ningxia and its effect on agriculture

【Objective】The objective of the present study was to elucidate the spatial and temporal variation in annual and seasonal average temperatures in Ningxia and its effects on agricultural production, in order to improve the agriculture production. 【Method】The spatial and temporal variations in duration and abrupt change in annual and seasonal mean air temperatures were analyzed in Ningxia using empirical orthogonal function (EOF) decomposition, spectrum analysis and Mann-Kendall methods. 【Result】Mean temperatures in spring and summer showed a significant increasing tendency while in autumn and winter no significant changes were observed. The regional difference was remarkable in summer in contrast to winter. The annual mean air temperature was very uniform in regional spatial distribution, and increased significantly since 1995. The mean air temperature was higher in northern areas while lower in southern areas of Ningxia, i.e., Liupan mountain region was relatively cold temperature area. The annual mean air temperature showed a decadal oscillation. It varied rapidly in 60s and abrupt changes occurred twice. The tendency of mean air temperature changed suddenly in 1978, 1986 and 1999. 【Conclusion】Ningxia is the main agricultural area of Northwest China, the air temperature anomalies may impact on agricultural production, both positively as well as negatively. There is need to observe the climate changes and to adopt the proper control measures to sustain the agricultural productivity.