Last updated: January 18, 2025
Ratanakiri, Cambodia, is characterized by a Köppen-Geiger climate classification of Aw, which indicates a distinct tropical savanna climate. The region experiences a remarkable temperature range, with January marking the minimum temperature at a crisp 14°C (57°F), while April sees extremes soaring to a robust 42°C (107°F). On average, the temperature hovers around a warm 28°C (82°F), creating conditions conducive to a diverse ecosystem and unique weather patterns throughout the year.
Ratanakiri, Cambodia, exhibits a distinct seasonal temperature pattern throughout the year, beginning with cool evenings in January, when temperatures dip to a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and average around 27°C (81°F). As the months progress into February and March, temperatures gradually rise, reaching a peak maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March, signaling the onset of hotter conditions. April stands out with the highest recorded temperature, soaring to 42°C (107°F), while May experiences similar warmth but with slightly reduced maxima. The arrival of the rainy season in June brings a slight cooling effect, with average temperatures stabilizing around 28°C (82°F) as humidity increases. The temperatures continue to moderate during the subsequent months of July and August, maintaining an average of 27°C (81°F). Despite minor fluctuations, this mildness persists into September and October, before gradually cooling again in November, where the nightly lows drop to 19°C (66°F). Finally, December sees a return to cooler nights and averages, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (58°F) to 38°C (100°F), completing the cycle of seasonal temperature changes in this tropical savanna climate.
Banlung experiences a notable temperature range throughout the year, with January seeing a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and April reaching a maximum of 42°C (107°F). This variability highlights the region's diverse climate and can be explored further through detailed information available at monthly temperatures in Banlung.
Precipitation in Ratanakiri, Cambodia, reveals a marked seasonal variation, with the dry months of January and February receiving minimal rainfall of just 5 mm (0.2 in) and 2 mm (0.1 in) respectively. As the dry season transitions into the wetter months, March experiences a significant increase, recording 46 mm (1.8 in) over approximately 5 days. However, the onset of the monsoon season in April prompts a dramatic rise in precipitation, with 92 mm (3.6 in) falling within 13 days. This trend accelerates further in May and June, where rainfall peaks, delivering 253 mm (10.0 in) and 284 mm (11.2 in) respectively, as the frequency of rainy days escalates to an average of 25 to 27 days.
The heaviest rainfall occurs from July to September, where Ratanakiri experiences intense monsoonal conditions. July stands out with 413 mm (16.3 in) of precipitation over 28 days, closely followed by August and September, which record 358 mm (14.1 in) and 327 mm (12.9 in) respectively. The rainy season begins to taper off in October and November, yielding 261 mm (10.3 in) and 90 mm (3.6 in), while the number of rainy days decreases significantly. December marks the return to drier conditions, with only 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain over 3 days, indicating the end of the wet season and the approach of cooler, drier weather in the following months.
In Ratanakiri, Cambodia, sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern that reflects the region's climatic shifts throughout the year. January begins the year with a robust 256 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 295 hours in February as days lengthen. This upward trend continues into March, where sunshine peaks at 324 hours, representing the sunniest month of the year. As the transition from the dry season to the wet season occurs in April and May, sunshine hours remain relatively consistent at 311 and 313 hours respectively, indicating that even amidst increasing humidity, the region enjoys substantial sunlight.
However, as the monsoon season takes hold in June, there is a noticeable decline in sunshine hours, dropping to 285 hours. The reduction continues through July and August, where the clouds and rain dominate, resulting in 280 and 269 hours of sunlight respectively. By September, sunshine hours stabilize at 266 hours before gradually recovering into October and November, when the sun returns more vigorously, offering 275 hours and 289 hours of sunshine. December then closes the year on a brighter note with 304 hours of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Overall, the variation in sunshine hours illustrates Ratanakiri's dynamic weather patterns and highlights the importance of seasonal changes in planning agricultural and recreational endeavors.
The UV Index in Ratanakiri, Cambodia, showcases a pronounced seasonal variability, emphasizing the need for precautionary measures against harmful ultraviolet rays. January starts the year with a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, indicating a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. However, this intensity escalates sharply in February, reaching an extreme UV Index of 13, and remains at this elevated level through much of the dry season. Both March and April maintain a UV Index of 15, highlighting peak sun exposure risks where the burn time dramatically shortens to 10 minutes. This extreme category persists into May and June, signaling that residents and visitors must exercise caution during outdoor activities.
As the wet season begins, the UV Index slowly starts to decrease, though it remains within the extreme range for several months. In July and August, the UV Index settles at 14, maintaining the 10-minute burn threshold. It plateaus into September and October at 14 and 13 respectively, before tapering off slightly in November with an index of 11. December brings a return to very high levels, with a UV Index of 10 and a longer burn time of 15 minutes. This pattern emphasizes the critical need for protection against UV exposure year-round, particularly during the dry season when the risk is highest, encouraging the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
In Ratanakiri, Cambodia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, highlighting the region's proximity to the equator. Both January and February offer 11 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as the year progresses. By March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a threshold maintained through the following months of April to September. This sustained period of approximately 12 hours creates ample opportunity for outdoor activities, agriculture, and community events, allowing residents to fully embrace the region's tropical climate.
As the year wanes, daylight hours begin to decrease once more. In October, daylight dips back to 11 hours, mirroring the earlier months of the year. This pattern continues through November and December, which also experience 11 hours of daylight. The consistency in daylight duration reflects Ratanakiri's unique climatic conditions, providing a rhythm to daily life and activities. Overall, the balanced distribution of daylight throughout the year facilitates a rich environment for both natural ecosystems and human endeavors.
Banlung, Cambodia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months of May to October. Average temperatures range from a mild 16°C (61°F) in January to a peak of 42°C (107°F) in April. Rainfall is heaviest in July, with 422 mm (16.6 in) recorded, while January and February see minimal precipitation. Despite the rains, sunshine is plentiful, with March recording the highest at 324 hours. For more detailed information, visit Banlung climate.
In conclusion, Ratanakiri, Cambodia, presents a fascinating interplay of climate, temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that collectively shape the region's unique environmental and cultural landscape. With its tropical savanna climate, Ratanakiri experiences considerable seasonal variation, marked by distinct dry and wet periods. The ample sunshine and high UV Index throughout much of the year underscore the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the consistent daylight hours promote a vibrant agricultural lifestyle and encourage outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic factors is essential for sustainable development, tourism planning, and fostering resilience in local communities as they navigate the impacts of climate change in this dynamic environment.