Weather phenomena in
Phuket,
Thailand, begin the year favorably for holiday activities. Compared to
December,
January's climate shows an increase in temperatures with daytime peaks hitting a high of 32.7°C (90.9°F). This warming trend is accompanied by moderate humidity levels and a good amount of daily sunshine. Despite being winter, January begs to differ in Phuket, as sea temperatures remain comfortably warm. The relative decrease in rainfall further supports outdoor exploration.
Temperature
The arrival of January in Phuket, Thailand, records an average high-temperature of a still hot 32.7°C (90.9°F), closely related to the 31.7°C (89.1°F) observed in December. In the month of January, an average of 24.5°C (76.1°F) marks the low-temperature in Phuket.
Heat index
The heat index value for January is estimated at a blisteringly hot 43°C (109.4°F).
Attention: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are quite likely. Heatstroke becomes a risk with continued exertion.
Observations indicate that the heat index values are for shady locations with light wind. With exposure to direct sunlight, the heat index may be increased by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', is achieved by amalgamating air temperature with the relative humidity readings. The impact of weather on an individual can be subjective, affected by the person's activity and heat perception, which can vary due to elements including wind, clothing, and metabolic differences. Direct exposure to sun rays can potentially augment the heat sensation, elevating the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for children. Children often fail to recognize the requirement to rest and rehydrate. Thirst, being a late symptom of dehydration, underlines the importance of maintaining hydration, especially during ongoing physical activities.
The body's self-cooling mechanism is rooted in perspiration, where evaporating sweat cools down excessive warmth. With excessive moisture in the atmosphere, the effectiveness of the evaporation process is decreased, causing the body to cool down less efficiently, leading to a sensation of overheating. With body temperatures on the rise, inefficient heat shedding can lead to dehydration and its associated complications.
Humidity
In January, the average relative humidity is 70%.
Rainfall
In Phuket, Thailand, in January, during 4 rainfall days, 30mm (1.18") of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, in Phuket, there are 170 rainfall days, and 2220mm (87.4") of precipitation is accumulated.
Sea temperature
January,
February and December, with an average sea temperature of 28°C (82.4°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Phuket.
Note: For any water activity, surface water temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are considered as excellent and extremely pleasant for lengthened periods.
Daylight
In January, the average length of the day is 11h and 43min.
On the first day of January in Phuket, sunrise is at 06:39 and sunset at 18:19. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:46 and sunset at 18:33 +07.
Sunshine
The average sunshine in January is 9.2h.
UV index
The average daily maximum UV index in January in Phuket is 11. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: In January, a daily maximum UV index of 11 leads to the following instructions:
Ensure all key precautions. Defense against sun exposure is critical. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., UV radiation is strongest. Make an effort to avoid direct sunlight during this time, remembering that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. On sunny days, it's ideal to wear sunglasses that filter out UVA and UVB rays. Despite the cloud cover, sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be generously applied and reapplied, particularly after a swim or an outdoor workout. Attention! UV radiation is markedly stronger with water and sand reflections.