Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kampong Cham, Cambodia, is characterized by a tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen-Geiger classification (Am). The region experiences temperatures that range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in May, with an average temperature hovering around 29°C (84°F). This climatic profile not only highlights the significant seasonal temperature variations but also underscores the warm and humid conditions typical of this part of Southeast Asia.
In Kampong Cham, Cambodia, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The coldest months, January and December, feature minimum temperatures around 18°C (64°F) and average highs nearing 37°C (99°F). As the dry season progresses into February and March, temperatures steadily rise, with averages increasing to 30°C (86°F) and maximums reaching 39°C (103°F). April marks the onset of intense heat, with maxima peaking at 40°C (105°F). This warmth continues into May, where temperatures soar to 41°C (106°F), before the onset of the rainy season in June, which brings slightly cooler conditions that stabilize around 30°C (85°F). The mid-year months of July and August maintain similar averages but with occasional brief dips in maximals. As the region transitions back to the dry season in October and November, temperatures gradually decrease, bringing minimums down to the low 20s°C and average highs back to the mid-30s°C. Overall, Kampong Cham's climate showcases a clear shift from hot and dry to warmer and wetter seasons, reinforcing its tropical monsoon characterization.
Kampong Cham experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January's minimum dipping to 18°C (65°F) and May reaching a scorching maximum of 41°C (106°F). For more detailed insights, visit the link: monthly temperatures in Kampong Cham.
Kampong Cham, Cambodia, experiences a pronounced wet season characterized by significant rainfall, particularly from May to October. The year begins with sparse precipitation, as January and February receive minimal rainfall of 12 mm (0.5 in) and 5 mm (0.2 in), respectively, accumulating only two rainy days in January and one in February. As March approaches, rainfall begins to increase, culminating in 34 mm (1.3 in), and this trend accelerates dramatically in April with 73 mm (2.9 in). However, the most intense rainfalls occur from May to September, peaking in September with an impressive 255 mm (10.1 in).
During the wettest months of June, July, and August, Kampong Cham receives substantial rainfall, with totals of 138 mm (5.4 in), 184 mm (7.3 in), and 209 mm (8.2 in), respectively, each accompanied by over 25 rainy days. This peak in precipitation effectively sustains the region’s lush tropical environment but also signifies a period when rain can affect daily activities. By October, rainfall remains significant at 242 mm (9.5 in) before tapering off in November and December. These two months see reductions in both precipitation and rainy days, indicating a gradual return to drier conditions as the dry season begins.
In Kampong Cham, Cambodia, sunshine duration reveals notable seasonal trends, with hours peaking during the early months of the year. January begins the year with 257 hours of sunshine, steadily increasing to 297 hours in February and reaching a high of 328 hours in March. This upward trajectory continues into April and May, where sunshine levels stabilize at around 313 hours per month. The initial dry season thus provides ample sunlight, highlighting the region’s distinct transition from cooler to warmer weather as spring approaches.
As the monsoon season sets in, sunshine hours experience slight fluctuations but generally remain consistent. June sees a drop to 288 hours, followed by July and August, both recording 294 hours and 288 hours, respectively. The rainy months of September and October witness a further decline in sunshine, with 266 hours and 279 hours. However, by November, a resurgence occurs, with 292 hours of sunshine, and December closes the year on a bright note with 309 hours. This pattern underscores the climatic shifts in Kampong Cham, where the dry season affords the highest levels of sunlight, while the onset of rain moderates sunshine, contributing to a dynamic and diverse tropical environment.
Kampong Cham, Cambodia, experiences an intense UV Index throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical climate and proximity to the equator. From January through May, the UV Index consistently records values deemed extreme, peaking at 15 in both March, April, and May. This high level of ultraviolet radiation indicates a critical need for sun protection, as the suggested burn time remains a minimal 10 minutes during these months. Even in January, which registers the lowest index at 11, the exposure category remains in the extreme range, highlighting the persistent risk of UV-related skin damage.
As the monsoon season approaches, the UV Index begins to show slight variation but continues to reflect extreme levels. From June to September, the index fluctuates around 13 to 14, maintaining its warning for high sun exposure. Even with increased cloud cover during the rainy season, effective UV radiation remains substantial, necessitating protective measures. In contrast, October sees a decline to 13, followed by November at 11, and finally December with a somewhat lower 10—shifting into the very high category with a marginally longer burn time of 15 minutes. This seasonal pattern underscores the continuous UV risk in Kampong Cham, urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant against sun exposure year-round.
UV Risk Categories
In Kampong Cham, Cambodia, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, with minor variations reflecting the region's equatorial position. January and February both feature approximately 11 hours of daylight, providing a consistent start to the year. As spring approaches in March, daylight increases to 12 hours, a duration that holds steady from March through September, allowing for ample time to engage in outdoor activities and agricultural practices. This consistent daylight promotes a sense of cyclical rhythm and supports the tropical lifestyle prevalent in the area.
As the transition to the latter part of the year begins, daylight duration recedes back to 11 hours in October, aligning with the approaching dry season. This reduction continues through November and December, reinforcing the idea that Kampong Cham experiences minimal fluctuation in daylight hours compared to regions farther from the equator. Overall, the relatively stable daylight pattern, coupled with the tropical climate, facilitates an environment ripe for both farming and tourism, contributing positively to local communities and their activities throughout the year.
Kampong Cham, Cambodia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to April, temperatures rise steadily, peaking in May at an average of 30°C (86°F) and maxing out at 41°C (106°F). The rainy season begins in May, with significant precipitation peaking in September with 264 mm (10.4 in) of rain, while sunshine hours remain relatively high throughout the year. Despite the heavy rains, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in February and March, with 295 and 328 hours respectively. For more detailed information, visit Kampong Cham climate.
In conclusion, Kampong Cham, Cambodia, showcases a distinctive tropical climate characterized by high temperatures, significant rainfall, and intense UV radiation throughout the year. The region experiences a notable dry season with substantial sunshine hours, while the wet season provides a welcome respite for agricultural activities despite a mélange of sunshine and rain. Additionally, the consistent daylight duration across the year allows for ample opportunities for outdoor engagement. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for local communities and visitors alike, as they navigate the benefits and challenges posed by the environment, enhancing both sustainable practices and the appreciation of Kampong Cham’s unique natural setting.