Using the daily precipitation and temperature data of 101 meteorological stations in four provinces of central China (Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi) from 1988 to 2017, we analyzed the temporal and spatial dynamics and periodicity of nine extreme climate indices in central China, using the predefined methods for analyzing extreme climate events, such as a M-K test, a linear trend analysis, and a wavelet analysis. The extreme climate characteristics and changes in central China in the past 30 years were revealed. The results showed that the CSDI was significantly reduced linearly at a rate of −0.19 d/10a, and the WSDI and TXx increased significantly at rates of 0.25 d/10a and 0.30◦ C/10a, respectively. The CDD decreased significantly at a rate of −1.67 d/10a. The duration of extreme low-temperature and drought events in central China showed a gradual shortening, while the duration of extreme high-temperature events and the high-temperature values increased. The results of the abrupt climate change test showed that some extreme climate indices in central China had significant abrupt climate changes after 2000. Analyzing the cyclicality of each index, it was determined that the extreme climate index in central China had a significant cyclical change every 2–4 years, and the change was more notable after 2000. Analyzing the spatial distribution of the extreme climate indices, it was determined that Jiangxi had the longest duration of all hightemperature events, and was the largest and longest of events of extreme precipitation. It was also determined that the Jiangxi region was at greater risk of extreme climate events in central China. The results of this study can provide a scientific basis for climate change trends, local disaster prevention, and mitigation management in central China. © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.