The new year brings warm temperatures to
Surat Thani,
Thailand, characteristic of its tropical climate. Despite this warmth,
January is not the hottest month of the year. Visitors and locals can still enjoy plenty of daylight, though rainfall becomes a regular occurrence. With an average rainfall of 37mm (1.46") over six days, it is a relatively dry month compared to what is to come in the later months. Sea temperatures remain inviting, ideal for water activities.
Temperature
January in Surat Thani reports an average high-temperature of a hot 31.1°C (88°F), slightly varied from
December's 29.9°C (85.8°F). Throughout January, an average nighttime temperature of 21.1°C (70°F) is experienced.
Heat index
During January, the heat index is computed to be a scorching 42°C (107.6°F). Greater safety measures are needed, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is high. Continuous activity might trigger heatstroke.
Given the heat index, its values are aligned with shaded sites and gentle winds. Direct sunlight has the potential to heighten heat index values by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'felt air temperature', stands as a testimony to how temperature and humidity combine to impact our sense of warmth. The impact of weather is personal, differing among a variety of people based on differences in body mass, height, and the level of physical exertion. Remember, direct sunlight exposure can heighten the heat impact and might increase the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values hold particular significance for children. Children commonly overlook the importance of rest and fluid replenishment. Thirst, being a delayed sign of dehydration, emphasizes the need to keep hydration up, especially during lengthy physical activities.
In response to overheating, the human body perspires to cool down, mainly through the evaporation of sweat. An increase in relative humidity disrupts body cooling by slowing the evaporation rate, thereby reducing the rate at which the body cools and amplifying the sense of heat. Accumulating more heat than the body can dissipate leads to an uptick in body temperature, with potential heat stress consequences.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in January is 81%.
Rainfall
In Surat Thani, in January, during 6 rainfall days, 37mm (1.46") of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 159 rainfall days, and 1622mm (63.86") 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 Surat Thani.
Note: For water activities like swimming, diving, and more, temperatures ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) offer superior comfort and enjoyment for lengthy durations.
Daylight
The average length of the day in January is 11h and 40min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 06:37 and sunset at 18:13. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:44 and sunset at 18:28 +07.
Sunshine
In Surat Thani, the average sunshine in January is 8h.
UV index
The average daily maximum UV index in January is 11. A UV Index value of 11, and more, symbolizes an extreme threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: In January, a regular UV index of 11 translates into these guidelines:
Implement all necessary safeguards, unprotected skin might suffer burns rapidly. The Sun's UV radiation is most powerful between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To the extent possible, limit exposure to the direct sun during these hours. For effective sun eye protection, rely on sunglasses certified for UVA and UVB resistance. Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen must be generously applied and reapplied every two hours or post any outdoor activity or swim. Take warning! Reflective sand and water surfaces intensify the Sun's UV rays.