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Contents
- The climate of Phnom Penh
- The best time to visit Phnom Penh
- The worst time to visit Phnom Penh
- Spring weather in Phnom Penh
- Summer weather in Phnom Penh
- Autumn weather in Phnom Penh
- Winter weather in Phnom Penh
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The buildings in the Royal Palace-yard in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The climate of Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, sits comfortably within a tropical monsoon climate zone, according to the Köppen climate classification. The geographical position of the city complements its climatic conditions, strengthening its distinctive tropical weather attributes. Year-round warmth characterizes the city's climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below 21.7°C (71.1°F), even during the coldest month. High temperatures range from 29.9°C (85.8°F) to 34.9°C (94.8°F), underscoring the consistent tropical heat.
Interpretation of the monthly averages of climatological parameters highlights distinct wet and dry phases. Rainfall abundance varies dramatically, with the most substantial precipitation recorded between May and October, reaching a peak of 319mm (12.56") in September. Contrastingly, drier conditions prevail between November and April, where rainfall decreases significantly from 135mm (5.31") in November to a scant 12mm (0.47") by February.
Relative humidity, parallel to rainfall patterns, peaks during the monsoon season with an 84% maximum in September and October, descending to 71% during the drier months. Daylight hours are relatively consistent throughout the year, fluctuating slightly from 11.5 hours to a peak of 12.8 hours in June. Correspondingly, the duration of sunshine varies, reaching its maximum in April with 8.6 hours and declining significantly to 4.3 hours in September.
Interpretation of the monthly averages of climatological parameters highlights distinct wet and dry phases. Rainfall abundance varies dramatically, with the most substantial precipitation recorded between May and October, reaching a peak of 319mm (12.56") in September. Contrastingly, drier conditions prevail between November and April, where rainfall decreases significantly from 135mm (5.31") in November to a scant 12mm (0.47") by February.
Relative humidity, parallel to rainfall patterns, peaks during the monsoon season with an 84% maximum in September and October, descending to 71% during the drier months. Daylight hours are relatively consistent throughout the year, fluctuating slightly from 11.5 hours to a peak of 12.8 hours in June. Correspondingly, the duration of sunshine varies, reaching its maximum in April with 8.6 hours and declining significantly to 4.3 hours in September.
The best time to visit Phnom Penh
Balancing pleasant temperatures and reduced rainfall, the optimal visitation period for Phnom Penh commences in November and proceeds through February. During these months, rainfall is minimal, varying from 80mm (3.15") in December to 12mm (0.47") in February. Correspondingly, humidity decreases, bringing slight respite from the persistent tropical dampness. Daylight stays relatively long, and temperatures remain warm but not excessively hot, offering ideal conditions for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Phnom Penh
The period from May to October stands as the most challenging time to visit Phnom Penh due to the intensified monsoonal influence. During these months, heavy rainfall ensues, culminating in September with a substantial 319mm (12.56") average. Simultaneously, higher humidity levels exhibit an uptick, reaching a peak of 84% in September and October. Despite the ample supply of daylight, the concurrent increase in rainfall and humidity can make outdoor activities less enjoyable.
Spring weather in Phnom Penh
Between March and May, Phnom Penh experiences a transitional phase getting into the monsoon season. During this period, temperatures rise, reaching a zenith of 34.9°C (94.8°F) in April and May. Simultaneously, rainfall begins to increase, moving from 12mm (0.47") in February to 58mm (2.28") in March, and surging to 101mm (3.98") by May. Despite the uptick in the rainfall, the hours of sunshine remain robust, providing ample daylight for activities and exploration.
Summer weather in Phnom Penh
The summer months in Phnom Penh, spanning June through August, belong to the peak of the region's monsoon season. Rainfall records its greatest levels during these months, from 177mm (6.97") in June to a whopping 196mm (7.72") in July, and then slightly reduces to 172mm (6.77") in August. Temperatures, although high, exhibit a marginal decrease compared to spring, hovering around the low 30s. The city also experiences diminishing sunshine hours, reaching a low of 4.6 hours in July.
Autumn weather in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh witnesses a slight decrease in temperatures and rainfall in the autumn months spanning September through November. The city records the highest annual precipitation in September, at 319mm (12.56"). However, rainfall then decreases considerably to 135mm (5.31") by November. Temperatures begin to cool down, with the lowest high temperatures recorded in November, at 29.9°C (85.8°F).
Winter weather in Phnom Penh
The winter period, from December to February, often is the driest phase of the year in Phnom Penh. Rainfall significantly drops during these months, to levels as low as 12mm (0.47") in February. Nights become slightly cooler, with low temperatures falling to 21.7°C (71.1°F) in December, while daytime temperatures vary from 30.1°C (86.2°F) to 32.8°C (91°F). Relative humidity reduces to more tolerable levels, increasing the comfort factor and making it an excellent period for tourism.
Weather in January
January in Phnom Penh, Cambodia observes an average of 73% relative humidity with a UV index of 10, setting the stage for a generally dry and moderately sunny month. Rainfall is fairly minimal during this period with an average of just 26mm (1.02") over approximately 3 days, giving way to dry streets and clear skies. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Phnom Penh announces the arrival of February with a slight increase in average temperatures, complemented by a tendency towards slightly reduced humidity than the preceding month. The city presents a charm with sunlight caressing the landscape for an average of 8.1 hours per day. Weather in February »
Weather in March
In March, the mercury in the thermometers make a noticeable shift upwards in Phnom Penh. An increase in the monthly average rainfall to 58mm (2.28") makes it evident that the city is gradually moving towards the wetter months of the year. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Moving into April, Phnom Penh displays even more pronounced tropical characteristics. A significant leap in rainfall to 101mm (3.98") signifies the approaching monsoon season while the UV index remains constant at 12. This increase in precipitation does not deter the sun from making its appearance known with an average of 12.4 daylight hours per day. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is characterized in Phnom Penh with the highest average highs of the year, peaking at 34.9°C (94.8°F) and positioning it as the hottest month. As the rain showers become more frequent, the humidity levels rise to 77%, enhancing the tropical feel of the city. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June welcomes the monsoon with open arms in Phnom Penh. The rainfall dramatically escalates to an average high of 177mm (6.97"), showering the city with regular, short spells of rain. The UV index stays constant at 12 throughout this month, indicative of the sunny periods interspersed between the showers. Weather in June »
Weather in July
In Phnom Penh, July brings the heaviest showers of the year with an impressive 196mm (7.72") of rainfall on average. Sunlight is somewhat scarce, gracing the city for an average of only 4.6 hours per day. This month is characterized by intense bouts of rain that clear as abruptly as they arrive. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Phnom Penh continues to bear the brunt of heavy monsoon rains, which marginally ebb to a still substantial 172mm (6.77") of rainfall. Downpours become a near-daily occurrence, captivating visitors with the city's ability to thrive and adapt to the water. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September carries forward the monsoon chapter in Phnom Penh with a substantial 249mm (9.8") of rainfall, making it the rainiest month of the year. These showers, although frequent, are usually brief and accompanied by intense bouts of sunshine. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Phnom Penh is a month of transition, signaled by a considerable decrease in rainfall to 319mm (12.56"). The presence of sunlight in the city increases to 6.5 hours per day, making the landscape all the more enticing after the withdrawal of the monsoon. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November ushers in a drier spell in Phnom Penh as the monsoon gradually retreats. The progression from the damp months means a significant drop in average rainfall, recorded at 135mm (5.31") over the month. Sunlight becomes a more regular sight with the sunshine hours increasing to 7.1 hours daily. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Phnom Penh signals the full retreat of the monsoon, making way for drier and sunnier days. The city sees a substantial decrease in rainfall to 80mm (3.15"), which teamed up with an increase in the sunshine hours to 7.8 daily, brings a sense of lightness to the city’s ambiance. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Phnom Penh?
Throughout the year, there are 153.4 rainfall days, and 1636mm (64.41") of precipitation is accumulated.
When is the lowest UV index in Phnom Penh?
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 10.
What is the least humid month in Phnom Penh?
February and March, with an average relative humidity of 71%, are the least humid months.
What is the driest month in Phnom Penh?
February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 2.4 days and accumulates 12mm (0.47") of precipitation.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Phnom Penh?
February through October, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the warmest month in Phnom Penh?
In Phnom Penh, the warmest months are March and April, registering an average high-temperature of 34.9°C (94.8°F).
What month has the most sunshine in Phnom Penh?
The month with the most sunshine in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is March, with an average of 8.6h of sunshine.
When are the longest days in Phnom Penh?
With an average of 12h and 48min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Phnom Penh.
What is the most humid month in Phnom Penh?
The months with the highest humidity in Phnom Penh are September and October, with an average relative humidity of 84%.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Phnom Penh?
With an average of 4.3h of sunshine, September has the least sunshine of the year in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
What is the rainiest month in Phnom Penh?
October is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 24 days and accumulates 319mm (12.56") of precipitation.
What month is the coldest in Phnom Penh?
Temperature records mark November as the coldest month, with highs averaging 29.9°C (85.8°F) and lows at 22.7°C (72.9°F).
What is the month with the shortest days in Phnom Penh?
With an average of 11h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). +07 timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are March and April (34.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is November (29.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is May (25.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (21.7°C).
Average humidity
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The months with the highest relative humidity are September and October (84%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are February and March (71%).
Average rainfall
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Average rainfall in January:
25.5mm - Average rainfall in February:
11.5mm - Average rainfall in March:
58mm - Average rainfall in April:
101mm - Average rainfall in May:
111.6mm - Average rainfall in June:
177.1mm
- Average rainfall in July:
195.9mm - Average rainfall in August:
172mm - Average rainfall in September:
248.8mm - Average rainfall in October:
318.9mm - Average rainfall in November:
135mm - Average rainfall in December:
80.3mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (318.9mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (11.5mm).
Average rainfall days
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Average rainfall days in January:
2.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
2.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
5.2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8.6 days - Average rainfall days in May:
16.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
19.6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
21.4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
19.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
24 days - Average rainfall days in November:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
4.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (24 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (2.4 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
4h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is March (Average sunshine: 8h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is September (Average sunshine: 4h and 18min).
Average UV index
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The months with the highest UV index are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October (UV index 12).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 10).
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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