Last updated: January 18, 2025
Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan experiences a Cwa climate classification, characterized by a distinctive seasonal variation in temperature. The region sees a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) in January, indicating a cold winter period, while the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 21°C (70°F) throughout the year. The summer months bring a maximum temperature of 35°C (96°F) in August, highlighting the region's tendency for warm weather. This climatic profile plays a crucial role in shaping the local ecosystem and influencing agricultural practices in this scenic part of Bhutan.
In Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal progression, transitioning from the cool winter months to the warmer summer periods. January and February experience minimum temperatures at 0°C (32°F) and a gradual rise in averages from 14°C (57°F) to 16°C (60°F), setting the stage for spring. March marks a notable increase, with minimums rising to 3°C (37°F) and averages reaching 19°C (67°F), while April brings further warmth with averages of 22°C (71°F). By May, temperatures stabilize around 23°C (74°F) and the maximums peak at 34°C (94°F) throughout the summer months of June to August, which consistently maintain averages near 26°C (79°F) and maximums hovering around 35°C (96°F). As autumn approaches, September and October see a slight cooling trend, with averages returning to the low 20s°C and minimums ranging from 9°C (49°F) to 16°C (60°F). The cycle closes in December, as winter sets in again with temperatures gradually dropping to average 15°C (60°F) and minimums back to 2°C (36°F), clearly illustrating the region's rhythmic climatic shift.
Nganglam experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) in January to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in August, making it quite warm during the summer months. Similarly, Samdrup Jongkhar has a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) in January and peaks at 35°C (95°F) in October. Meanwhile, Bhangtar records slightly higher minimum temperatures, starting at 6°C (43°F) in January, with its maximum also reaching 35°C (96°F) in June. For detailed monthly temperature fluctuations, visit the links: monthly temperatures in Nganglam, monthly temperatures in Samdrup Jongkhar, and monthly temperatures in Bhangtar.
The precipitation patterns in Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, reveal a distinct seasonal distribution characterized by substantial rainfall during the summer months. January and February are relatively dry, with rainfall measuring only 12 mm (0.5 in) and 37 mm (1.5 in), respectively. As spring progresses, March experiences a notable increase to 80 mm (3.1 in), and by April, rainfall escalates dramatically to 184 mm (7.2 in), setting the stage for the monsoon season. This uptick continues through May with an impressive 405 mm (15.9 in), leading into the peak precipitation months of June and July, where totals soar to 521 mm (20.5 in) and 701 mm (27.6 in), respectively.
Following the summer deluge, August experiences a decline in rainfall to 417 mm (16.4 in), while September sees a similar trend with 391 mm (15.4 in). The transition into autumn brings further reduction; October receives 135 mm (5.3 in), while November and December see only 11 mm (0.4 in) each. The number of rainy days correlates with this precipitation pattern, with the peak occurring in July with 29 days of rain, tapering to just a few days by the end of the year. This distinct seasonal variability has significant implications for the region's agriculture and water resources.
Sunshine duration in Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter to summer. Beginning the year with 230 hours in January, the region sees a remarkable rise in February to 268 hours and continues climbing to 321 hours in March. April maintains a strong performance with 314 hours, while May experiences slightly less sunshine at 307 hours, indicating the onset of the pre-monsoon cloudiness. This upward trajectory highlights how the lengthening days bring more light as spring blossoms into summer.
However, the peak sunshine period occurs in March, marking it as a particularly bright month before the heavy rains of the monsoon. As the summer progresses, sunshine hours decline from 289 hours in June to 237 hours in July, a significant drop as the rainy season takes hold. Despite the decrease, August and September rebound with 276 hours and 273 hours, respectively, before returning to more moderate days in the autumn months of October and November, which enjoy 304 hours and 289 hours of sunshine. This annual cycle emphasizes the variability of sunlight in conjunction with rainfall, providing essential insights for agriculture and lifestyle in the region.
The UV Index in Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, showcases a pronounced seasonal variation, reflecting the intense sun exposure that accompanies the region's climate. Starting with a UV Index of 7 in January, categorized as high, the month allows for a burn time of 25 minutes. This pattern escalates sharply as winter gives way to late spring, with February and March experiencing UV Index values of 9 and 10, respectively, both labeled very high. The peak occurs in April when the Index reaches 13, entering the extreme category, which signals a significant increase in the potential for skin damage from unprotected sun exposure.
As summer progresses, the conditions remain extreme, peaking at a UV Index of 15 from June to August, necessitating caution with an exposure burn time reduced to a mere 10 minutes. Even with the onset of autumn, the UV Index remains considerable, lingering at 13 in September and 11 in October, before dipping to 9 in November, while returning to 6 in December. This seasonal trend indicates a heightened need for sun safety measures during the spring and summer months, as prolonged exposure can lead to increased risks of skin damage, making awareness and protection crucial for residents and visitors alike.
UV Risk Categories
In Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, daylight duration exhibits a rhythmic seasonal pattern, beginning at 10 hours in January as the year dawns slowly. February sees a slight increase to 11 hours, reflecting the gradual approach of spring. March welcomes an expansion of daylight with a full 12 hours, a trend that continues into April, ensuring the region enjoys the same amount of light. As May arrives, daylight reaches its peak at 13 hours, where it remains consistent through June, July, and August, allowing ample time for outdoor activities and agricultural endeavors during the warmer months.
As summer transitions into autumn, the daylight begins to wane, tapering back to 12 hours in September, followed by a decrease to 11 hours in October. By November, daylight once again reduces to 10 hours, mirroring the shorter days of January. December completes the cycle with another 10-hour span of daylight, signifying the return to winter conditions. This seasonal variation in daylight duration not only influences the daily rhythms of life in Samdrup Jongkhar but also plays a vital role in scheduling agricultural activities and cultural practices throughout the year.
Bhangtar, Bhutan experiences a warm subtropical climate with significant rainfall, particularly from June to September. Temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) in January to a high of 35°C (95°F) during the summer months. The region sees its highest precipitation in July, averaging 598 mm (23.5 in), while January and November are relatively drier with only 14 mm (0.5 in) and 8 mm (0.3 in) of rainfall respectively. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in March with 322 hours, contributing to the warm temperatures throughout the year. For more details on the climate, visit Bhangtar climate.
Daifam, Bhutan experiences a temperate climate with significant variation in temperatures and precipitation throughout the year. January temperatures range from a chilly 0°C to a comfortable 21°C, while July peaks around 28°C. The region sees substantial rainfall, particularly from May to July, with July being the wettest month at 873 mm. However, sunshine is abundant in the winter months, peaking at 323 hours in March, before tapering off in the monsoon season. For more detailed information, visit Daifam climate.
Nganglam, Bhutan experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January begins with cool temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C to a maximum of 28°C, while summer months, especially July and August, see highs around 35°C amid heavy rainfall, peaking at 705 mm in July. The area enjoys plenty of sunshine, particularly in March with 317 hours, making it the sunniest month. Rainfall intensifies from March to June, which are the wettest months. For more details, visit Nganglam climate.
The climate in Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, is characterized by warm temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a cool 15°C (59°F) in January to a peak of 28°C (82°F) in August, with July being the hottest month at a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is heaviest from May to July, accumulating up to 630 mm (24.8 in) in July, while the driest months are January and November, receiving only 7 mm (0.3 in). Sunshine hours vary, peaking at 322 hours in March and generally decreasing throughout the monsoon season. For more details, visit Samdrup Jongkhar climate.
In conclusion, the climatic and environmental patterns in Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, illustrate a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunlight, UV index, and daylight duration throughout the year. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with warm summers marked by abundant rains and high UV radiation, alongside milder, drier winters. These fluctuations have profound implications for local agriculture, health considerations, and daily life. Understanding these trends is essential for residents and policymakers alike, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by Samdrup Jongkhar's unique climate, fostering sustainable practices that promote both the well-being of its inhabitants and the preservation of its rich natural resources.