The climate of Bangkok
Bangkok,
Thailand, lies within the 'Aw' Köppen climate zone, demarcating the predominance of tropical wet and dry conditions or more commonly known as 'Savanna'. The geographical positioning of Bangkok within the lower central part of the country, close to the Gulf of Thailand, contributes to its distinctive tropical climate.
A consistent pattern can be discerned in the city's climate throughout the year, with average monthly temperatures remaining relatively warm, ranging from a lowest average of 31.7°C (89.1°F) to the maximum of 35.4°C (95.7°F). The relative humidity hovers between 66% and 79%, reflecting the tropical nature of the city's climate. Rainfall varies dramatically, with the months of
January and
December experiencing just 13.3 and 6mm (0.24") of rainfall respectively, compared to the deluge of 334mm (13.15") in
September. As far as sunshine is concerned, the city basks in between 5.2 to 9 hours of sunlight per day; this is complemented by daylight hours that range from 11.3 hours to 12.9 hours annually.
Remarkable patterns in Bangkok's weather include the marked decrease in rainfall towards the tail end of the year and the relatively steady temperature throughout. This pattern of a pronounced dry season, coupled with uniform temperatures and fluctuating humidity levels, offers a distinctive characteristic of Bangkok's tropical savanna climate.
The best time to visit Bangkok
Visiting
Bangkok from
November to
February could be an enjoyable experience as these months witness relatively lower temperature ranges, from 31.7°C (89.1°F) to 34.4°C (93.9°F) and least rainfall, from 6mm (0.24") to 50mm (1.97") on average. With up to 8.5 hours of sunshine daily and a modest UV index of 9 to 10, these months provide an ideal opportunity for visitors to explore the city's bustling streets and numerous attractions without the discomfort of extreme weather conditions.
The worst time to visit Bangkok
Planning a visit between
May and
October may prove to be challenging due to the substantial increase in rainfall, with
September witnessing the highest rainfall of 334mm (13.15") on average.
June to September also record the highest relative humidity of 79%, potentially leading to discomfort due to the muggy climate. Temperatures from May to October do not provide much respite either, with the mercury hovering between 32.8°C (91°F) and 35.4°C (95.7°F).
Spring weather in Bangkok
Bangkok does not experience a traditional spring season, as seen in temperate climates. However, the months of
March to
May, which correspond to spring in the temperate regions, see a gradual rise in temperature, from 33.3°C (91.9°F) to 35.4°C (95.7°F), coupled with a significant increase in rainfall from 20mm (0.79") to 248mm (9.76"). The city also receives between 8.6 and 7 hours of sunshine daily and relative humidity levels range from 72% to 75%, offering a semblance of respite amidst the sweltering temperatures.
Summer weather in Bangkok
The summer months in
Bangkok, particularly from
June to
August, are characterized by a combination of heavy rains, high temperatures and increased humidity. Average temperatures range from 32.9°C (91.2°F) to 34.4°C (93.9°F), with the relative humidity reaching up to 76%. Rainfall shows a crucial increase, with a deluge of between 157mm (6.18") to 219mm (8.62") recorded, making outdoor activities potentially challenging.
Autumn weather in Bangkok
In
Bangkok, the months from
September to
November feature the highest levels of rainfall for the year, with the peak reached in September at 334mm (13.15"). Humidity remains high at an average of 78%, while temperatures commence a gradual decline from 32.8°C (91°F) to 32.4°C (90.3°F). Despite the high levels of precipitation, the city still enjoys between 5.2 and 7.8 hours of daily sunshine.
Winter weather in Bangkok
December and
January in
Bangkok witness a significant reduction in rainfall, dropping to an average of 6mm (0.24") and 13mm (0.51") respectively. Temperatures cool down to pleasant levels ranging between 31.7°C (89.1°F) and 32.5°C (90.5°F). Sunshine hours remain between 8.5 to 8.8 hours per day. Consequently, these months offer the most comfortable weather conditions in Bangkok, with much less rainfall and relatively lower temperatures, making it an attractive period for travelers to visit.
Weather in January
January in
Bangkok,
Thailand, ushers in the New Year with elevated temperatures. The robust daylight period of 11.4 hours combined with 8.8 hours of sunshine classify this period as part of the dry season. Notably, the city sees a low rate of rainfall, with only 13mm (0.51") precipitation spread across a mere one day, rendering this as the driest period of the year.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Following
January,
February in
Bangkok,
Thailand is characterized by radiant sunlight, accompanied by a rise in warmth, rendering this period increasingly appealing for sun-worshippers. Februray spectate a dramatic escalation in UV index to 12, the highest annual value, indicating strong sunlight intensity.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March sees a continuation of warm weather in
Bangkok,
Thailand with a noticeable ascent in mercury levels. This month reaches a yearly high temperature of 34.3°C (93.7°F), starting an intensely warm period in the city. However, residents and visitors relish the extended daylight duration of 12.1 hours, allowing ample time for outdoor adventures.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April distinguishes itself by hosting the most torrid conditions in
Bangkok,
Thailand throughout the year. This month witnesses the zenith of temperature, soaring up to 35.4°C (95.7°F), making it the warmest period in the city.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Bangkok,
Thailand goes through considerable meteorological changes during
May. This period witnesses a massive surge in rainfall, reaching up to 248mm (9.76"), spread across a significant 16 days, marking the real onset of the monsoon season.
Weather in May » Weather in June
With the arrival of
June,
Bangkok experiences a continuation of the monsoon season. Pleasingly, the heat starts to retreat, facilitating more comfortable weather conditions for residents and visitors alike. The heightened levels of precipitation continue to be the climate's highlight, keeping the city's plush greenery refreshed.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
During
July,
Bangkok,
Thailand sees a persistence of the monsoon season with peak rainfall spreading equally throughout the month. Local living adjusts to the 175mm (6.89") of precipitation, characterizing the city's weather at this time.
Weather in July »Weather in August
In
Bangkok,
August is typified by sustained rainfall, making it one of the wettest months of the year. Torrential showers are widespread, resulting in 219mm (8.62") precipitation, spreading across an extensive 20 days, making it the most rainy month.
Weather in August »Weather in September
With the arrival of
September,
Bangkok,
Thailand reaches the final stretch of the monsoon season. This period sees the highest level of relative humidity at 79%, making it the most humid month of the year. Despite continued rainfall, a gradual fall in sea temperatures and an overall decrease in sunlight hours characterizes the transition period.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Bangkok witnesses a culmination of the monsoon season and the inception of the city's much-awaited dry season. The city's weather map exhibits declining trends in rainfall and humidity levels, making the outdoor environment more pleasing.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Bangkok,
Thailand marks the full return of clear skies and cooler temperatures, indicating the year-end holiday season's onset. The city witnesses a steep decline in rainfall levels recording just 50mm (1.97") precipitation.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Wrapping up the year,
December in
Bangkok brings forth the coolest conditions tha city experiences. Mercury levels decline to a comfortable range, with temperatures reaching a low of 22°C (71.6°F). The drastically reduced rainfall of only 6mm (0.24") occurring over a single day seals its status as part of the dry season.
Weather in December » [Resources]