Last updated: January 18, 2025
Shemgang, Bhutan, exhibits a unique climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cwb and Cwa, representing temperate and humid conditions. The region experiences a minimum temperature of -8°C (18°F) in January, showcasing the chill of winter. As the year progresses, average temperatures rise to a mild 17°C (63°F), peaking dramatically in July with maximum temperatures soaring to 36°C (97°F). This variability in temperature underscores the dynamic climatic conditions prevalent in Shemgang, reflecting the broader ecological diversity of the region.
Shemgang, Bhutan, displays distinct seasonal temperature variations, beginning with the coldest months of January and February, where minimum temperatures dip to -8°C (18°F) and -8°C (19°F), respectively, gradually increasing. By March, the region starts to warm, with average temperatures rising from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (64°F) in April, signaling the arrival of spring. As summer approaches, particularly in June and July, temperatures peak, with maximums reaching 36°C (97°F), while averages hover around 22°C (72°F). The warmth of late summer continues into August and September, before a gradual decline in temperatures occurs in the fall months of October and November. By December, temperatures again drop, with a minimum of -3°C (28°F), as Shemgang transitions back into its winter season, completing a cyclical pattern of climatic change throughout the year.
Shemgang experiences a minimum temperature of -8°C (18°F) in January, with a maximum of 26°C (79°F) in August, offering a significant temperature range throughout the year monthly temperatures in Shemgang. In contrast, Panbang has a milder winter minimum of 5°C (42°F) in January and reaches a high of 36°C (97°F) in July, indicating a hotter climate during the summer months monthly temperatures in Panbang.
Shemgang, Bhutan, experiences a pronounced seasonal pattern in precipitation, with a notable increase in rainfall as the year progresses. January begins the year relatively dry, with only 21 mm (0.8 in) of rain over 6 days, but February sees a jump to 64 mm (2.5 in). As spring unfolds, March and April bring significant increases, culminating in 213 mm (8.4 in) of rainfall in April, ahead of the summer months. May marks the onset of the monsoon season, where precipitation skyrockets to 386 mm (15.2 in), setting the stage for an overall wet summer.
The peak of the monsoon occurs in July, with a staggering 888 mm (35.0 in) over 30 days, followed closely by August, which sees 619 mm (24.4 in), albeit with fewer rainfall days. The monsoon gradually subsides in September, dropping to 510 mm (20.1 in), and continues to decrease into October and November with 172 mm (6.8 in) and 26 mm (1.0 in), respectively. By December, precipitation drops further to 20 mm (0.8 in), highlighting the region's transition back to a drier winter climate with reduced rainfall days.
In Shemgang, Bhutan, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter to summer. January begins the year with 215 hours of sunshine, which gradually rises to 247 hours in February. As spring approaches, the sun shines longer, with March and April seeing 300 and 307 hours of sunlight, respectively. This peak sunshine period reflects the transition to warmer weather, where residents can enjoy abundant daylight and natural warmth. Interestingly, even with the onset of the monsoon in May, Shemgang still records a substantial 302 hours of sunshine, indicating that sunny intervals are still cherished during this typically wetter month.
As summer progresses, sunshine hours slightly decline, with June featuring 284 hours, followed by a notable dip in July, where only 228 hours of sunlight are recorded amidst heavy rain. However, this decrease is short-lived, as August and September provide a resurgence of 265 hours each, maintaining decent sunny spells despite lingering monsoonal effects. The autumn months demonstrate a recovery in sunshine as well, with October boasting 301 hours and November staying relatively bright with 281 hours. December rounds out the year with 272 hours, illustrating that while daylight may be shorter, Shemgang still enjoys a considerable amount of sunshine even in the depths of winter.
The UV Index in Shemgang, Bhutan, reveals an important seasonal pattern, with levels rising significantly from winter into summer. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 6, categorized as high, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. However, as February approaches, the UV Index escalates to 9, indicating very high exposure risk, while burn times reduce to 15 minutes. This upward trend continues into March with a peak at 10 before reaching 13 in both April and May as the region transitions fully into the monsoon season, necessitating greater sun protection measures due to the extreme UV levels and corresponding burn times of just 10 minutes.
The intensity of the UV Index peaks in July at 15, denoting extreme conditions, which persists through August and September, highlighting the need for caution in sun exposure. While the summer months showcase the highest UV levels, a gradual decline commences in October with an index of 11 before dropping to 8 in November. By December, Shemgang experiences a return to a high UV Index of 6, with longer burn times of 25 minutes once again. These fluctuations in UV exposure throughout the year emphasize the importance of appropriate sun safety measures, particularly during the summer months when the risk is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
In Shemgang, Bhutan, daylight duration exhibits a predictable seasonal cycle, beginning with approximately 10 hours of daylight in January. As winter progresses into February, daylight increases to 11 hours, signaling the gradual return of sunlight. March sees a further extension to 12 hours, which persists into April, before reaching a zenith of 13 hours in May. This consistent increase in daylight culminates in the summer months, where residents benefit from extended hours of natural light, enhancing outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the monsoon approaches, daylight duration stabilizes at 13 hours from June through August, offering prolonged periods of sunshine despite the rainy season. However, as the days start to shorten in September, daylight decreases back to 12 hours. This decline continues into October with 11 hours and concludes at 10 hours in both November and December, as Shemgang transitions back to its winter conditions. This cyclical pattern underscores the region's dependence on daylight, influencing both lifestyle and ecological dynamics throughout the year.
The climate in Panbang, Bhutan, features warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the summer months. January's temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while peak rainfall occurs in July with an astounding 883 mm (34.7 in). The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in March with 315 hours, although this decreases during the rainy season. As temperatures rise towards August, humidity levels also increase, making it the wettest month. For more detailed information, visit Panbang climate.
Shemgang, Bhutan experiences a diverse climate characterized by a wide range of temperatures and significant precipitation. Winters are cold, with January average temperatures around 4°C (39°F), while summer months, particularly July, can reach up to 25°C (77°F). The region sees substantial rainfall, peaking in July with 894 mm (35.2 in) and gradually decreasing toward the winter months. Despite the heavy precipitation, the area enjoys considerable sunshine, especially in spring, with March recording about 285 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Shemgang climate.
In summary, Shemgang, Bhutan, showcases a remarkable interplay of climatic and environmental factors throughout the year, characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. The region experiences a notable transition from the chill of winter to the warm embrace of summer, complemented by the shifting patterns of rainfall that define the monsoon season. As sunlight hours fluctuate, highlighting the contrast between summer's extended days and winter's brevity, it becomes evident that these elements significantly influence local ecosystems, agricultural cycles, and the daily lives of residents. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for promoting sustainable practices and enhanced resilience in the face of ongoing climate change.