Last updated: January 18, 2025
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, exemplifies a tropical savanna climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Am. Characterized by its warm temperatures, the city experiences a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in January, gradually rising to an average of 29°C (84°F) throughout the year. The peak heat is recorded in May, when maximum temperatures can reach a sweltering 40°C (104°F). This unique climate framework significantly influences the local ecosystem and urban lifestyle, underscoring the importance of understanding Phnom Penh’s climatic patterns.
Temperature patterns in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by a warm tropical climate. In the cooler months of January and December, nighttime temperatures can drop to 18-19°C (64-66°F), while daily highs peak at around 36°C (97°F). As February progresses, temperatures gradually rise, reaching their annual maximum in March to May, when averages hold steady at 30°C (86°F) and daytime highs soar to 40°C (104°F). Following this intense heat, the onset of the monsoon season in June marks a slight dip in maximum temperatures to 38°C (101°F) but maintains a mild average of 29°C (84°F). Throughout the latter half of the year, temperatures remain relatively stable, with averages hovering around 28°C (82°F) and maximums generally in the upper 30s (°C), reinforcing Phnom Penh's reputation as a city that embraces warm conditions year-round.
Dangkao experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in May, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Dangkao. In comparison, both Ruessei Kaev and Phnom Penh share a January minimum of 19°C (66°F) and peak at 40°C (104°F) in May, according to the monthly temperatures in Ruessei Kaev and monthly temperatures in Phnom Penh, respectively.
Precipitation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, displays a pronounced seasonal pattern, primarily influenced by the monsoon climate. The year begins with relatively low rainfall in January (19 mm) and February (9 mm), where dry conditions prevail, with only 3 and 1 rainy days, respectively. This trend shifts dramatically in March, where precipitation increases to 30 mm over 5 days, signaling the approach of the monsoon season. April typically experiences a notable uptick in rainfall, reaching 80 mm over 14 days, setting the stage for the heavy rains that follow.
From May through October, Phnom Penh is characterized by its monsoonal rains, with May recording the highest rainfall of 156 mm across 23 days. This precipitation peaks in September, with an impressive 246 mm over 26 days, creating the wettest month of the year. October experiences a slight decrease to 243 mm but still retains substantial rainfall with 23 rainy days. The wet season begins to wane in November and December, bringing a drop in both rainfall and rainy days, but even these months see a considerable 119 mm and 40 mm, respectively, concluding a year that is heavily defined by its distinct wet and dry periods.
In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal trend, with hours peaking during the transition from the dry to the wet season. The year begins with 257 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing to 298 hours in February. As the region moves into March, the sun shines the brightest, reaching a remarkable 329 hours. This pattern remains consistent through April and May, where sunshine averages around 312 hours, providing optimal conditions for outdoor activities and agriculture before the onset of the rainy season.
As the monsoon approaches, the duration of sunlight begins to decline but not dramatically. June sees a total of 283 hours, followed by July and August, which maintain similar levels at 287 hours and 288 hours respectively. In September, a more noticeable dip occurs, with sunshine reducing to 261 hours, signaling the height of the rainy season. However, the end of the year brings a resurgence of sunshine, with October and November seeing 275 hours and 289 hours, respectively, while December offers an impressive 307 hours of sunshine, allowing for a warm and bright conclusion to the year.
The UV index in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, reveals striking variations throughout the year, indicating significant sun exposure risks. Starting in January, the UV index rests at 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As temperatures rise, February sees a dramatic increase to 14, reaching an extreme exposure category with a reduced burn time of 10 minutes. This extreme condition continues through March and April, where the index peaks at 15, signaling an urgent need for sun protection measures as the burn time remains critically low at 10 minutes.
As the wet season approaches, the UV index remains consistently high, indicating extreme exposure levels through May and the summer months. June to October sees a slight fluctuation, with values ranging from 13 to 14, yet maintaining the extreme classification and the shortened burn time of 10 minutes. Notably, November experiences a decline to 11, still categorized as extreme, while December returns to a very high UV index of 10, suggesting that year-round vigilance against sun exposure is essential for residents and visitors alike to safeguard their skin health.
UV Risk Categories
In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, daylight duration displays minimal variation throughout the year, predominantly featuring around 11 to 12 hours of sunlight each day. The year begins with both January and February offering 11 hours of daylight, providing ample time for activities while still experiencing cooler temperatures. As March approaches, the daylight extends to 12 hours, a trend that continues through the months of April to September, fostering a consistent environment ideal for agriculture and outdoor pursuits.
As the year progresses into October, daylight hours taper off to 11 hours once again, remaining steady through November and December. This slight seasonal fluctuation ensures that while residents experience a generally stable amount of daylight, the remaining 11 hours during the latter months still allow for vibrant social and cultural activities, creating a balanced rhythm of life in the city. Overall, Phnom Penh’s consistent daylight duration contributes to the warm, welcoming climate that characterizes the region throughout the year.
Dangkao, Cambodia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to September. Average temperatures range from a mild 18°C (65°F) in January to a peak of 30°C (86°F) in the warmest months. The region receives the most rainfall in September, with 248 mm (9.8 in) of precipitation, while January is the driest month. Sunshine is plentiful, with over 250 hours of sun in most months, peaking in March at 329 hours. For more details, visit Dangkao climate.
Mean Chey, Cambodia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in May. The wet season lasts from May to October, with peak rainfall occurring in September and October at around 246 mm (9.7 in). Meanwhile, sunshine is abundant, with February having the most sunlight at 298 hours. For more detailed information, visit Mean Chey climate.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to April, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May with an average of 30°C (86°F) and maxing out at 40°C (104°F). The rainy season begins in May, bringing significant precipitation, with September and October receiving the most rainfall at 246 mm (9.7 in) each. Despite the rain, sunlight is abundant, with February and March boasting around 300 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Phnom Penh climate.
Ponhea Lueu, Cambodia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a cool 18°C (64°F) in January to a scorching 40°C (104°F) in March, with average monthly temperatures generally around 28-30°C (82-86°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to February but intensifies from April through October, peaking in September with 245 mm (9.7 in) of rain. Despite the heavy rainfall during the monsoon months, sunshine is abundant, especially from February to March, with up to 329 hours of sun in March. For more details, visit Ponhea Lueu climate.
Ruessei Kaev, Cambodia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January to March sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 39°C (102°F), while the rainy season from May to October brings increased humidity and substantial rainfall, peaking in September with 246 mm (9.7 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with February experiencing the most at 298 hours. For a detailed overview, visit Ruessei Kaev climate.
In conclusion, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, presents a unique climate characterized by warm temperatures, distinct seasonal rainfall patterns, and consistent sunshine and daylight duration throughout the year. The city's high UV index underscores the importance of sun protection, particularly during the extreme exposure months from February to April. With an average of 11 to 12 hours of daylight, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities year-round. Understanding these climatic elements is essential for leveraging the region's natural resources, enhancing lifestyle quality, and promoting awareness of environmental conditions, ensuring that Phnom Penh remains a vibrant and appealing destination amidst its tropical savanna climate.