The community of tropical cyclone (TC) researches has identified intensity change of TC as a high priority study subject. The activity of dry cold air, such as the rapid intensification and rapid weak-ening, is closely related to the intensity change of TC. Domestic and international research results of TC intensity change interpreted from the perspective of dry cold air activity are reviewed in the following three aspects: the intensity of dry cold air and intrusion location as well as the effect of upper tropospheric cold weather system on TC intensity change. Also, an outlook for future research is also given here to promote the study of the effect of dry cold air on the intensity change of TC.