Last updated: January 18, 2025
Siem Reap, Cambodia, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification (Aw). The region is characterized by a striking temperature range, with minimum temperatures dipping to 13°C (56°F) in January, which contrasts sharply with the maximum temperatures soaring to 42°C (107°F) in May. The average annual temperature hovers around 29°C (84°F), creating distinct seasonal variations that influence both local ecology and human activities. This climatic profile underscores Siem Reap's diverse weather conditions, shaping its cultural and natural landscapes.
The temperature patterns in Siem Reap, Cambodia, reveal distinct seasonal trends that reflect the region's tropical climate. January starts relatively cool, with minimum temperatures around 13°C (56°F), gradually warming to an average of 27°C (81°F). As winter transitions to spring, temperatures rise steadily, peaking in April and May when maximums reach 42°C (107°F), underscoring the hot pre-monsoon phase. During the summer months of June to August, minimum temperatures stabilize around 24°C (75°F), while averages remain consistent at 29°C (84°F), just slightly lower compared to the sweltering peak earlier in the year. With the arrival of the wet season in September and October, temperatures begin to cool, accompanied by a gradual decline in maximum temperatures. By December, the cycle returns to cooler averages of 26°C (80°F), highlighting the dynamic nature of Siem Reap's climate throughout the year.
In Cambodia, the temperatures vary across popular destinations from January to May. In Angkor Thum, the minimum temperature is 14°C (57°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 41°C (105°F) in May. Siem Reap experiences a slightly milder range, with minimum temperatures at 15°C (59°F) in January and maximums reaching 39°C (103°F) in May. Meanwhile, Banteay Srei sees the coolest temperatures, starting at a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January and climbing to a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in May. For more detailed information, visit monthly temperatures in Angkor Thum, monthly temperatures in Siem Reap, and monthly temperatures in Banteay Srei.
Precipitation patterns in Siem Reap, Cambodia, display a pronounced seasonal variation, with two distinct phases throughout the year. From January to March, rainfall is minimal, with January receiving only 9 mm (0.3 in) and February seeing a slight increase to 11 mm (0.4 in). However, as the region transitions into the wet season, measured precipitation escalates dramatically, culminating in April with 86 mm (3.4 in) and advancing to May, when the region receives 151 mm (5.9 in). This marks the onset of the rainy season, characterized by an increase in rainy days, particularly noticeable in May.
The peak of rainfall occurs during the summer months of July and August, where precipitation reaches 169 mm (6.7 in) and 184 mm (7.2 in), respectively, with rainfall occurring on an average of 24 days per month. September continues this trend with the highest monthly total of 267 mm (10.5 in), making it the wettest month of the year. As the monsoon gradually recedes, October and November still see substantial rainfall, averaging 219 mm (8.6 in) and 76 mm (3.0 in), respectively. December marks a return to drier weather, with a significant drop in precipitation to 21 mm (0.8 in), winding down the rainy season and setting the stage for a drier climate in the new year.
In Siem Reap, Cambodia, sunshine duration exhibits significant seasonal trends, with a clear rise in sunlight hours from winter to summer. The year begins with January receiving around 260 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 299 hours in February and peaking at 326 hours in March. This increase signals the transition to hotter months, culminating in a robust 312 hours of sunshine in April. Notably, May maintains this high level with 318 hours, illustrating the region's abundant sunshine as the dry season gives way to early monsoonal rains.
As the rainy season fully sets in, however, sunshine hours begin to decline, albeit less dramatically than one might expect. June still enjoys 303 hours of sunshine before a slight dip to 299 hours in July, while further reductions to 287 hours in August mark a notable trend. September sees the continuation of this pattern with 270 hours of sunshine, but the decrease stabilizes in the fall months, with October returning 278 hours, and November rebounding to 298 hours. By December, sunshine duration reaches 314 hours, offering a notable shift towards a sunnier end of the year. This cyclical pattern of sunshine not only influences the climate but also enhances the landscape and tourism appeal of Siem Reap throughout the seasons.
The UV Index in Siem Reap, Cambodia, reveals concerning trends related to sun exposure throughout the year, particularly during the peak summer months. Starting in January with a UV Index of 10, classified as very high, it becomes clear that sun exposure poses a significant risk; the recommended burn time is just 15 minutes. However, as the months progress into late winter and early spring, the UV Index skyrockets, reaching a monthly peak of 15 in March and May. During this period, the exposure category is extreme, with a dangerously short burn time of merely 10 minutes, underscoring the urgent need for sun protection measures.
As summer approaches and the rainy season begins, the UV Index remains high, fluctuating slightly between 13 and 14 from June to September, consistently maintaining its extreme classification. Notably, even as daylight decreases with the advent of autumn, October still reports a UV Index of 13. As the year comes full circle, November sees a drop to 11, followed by a return to 10 in December, yet both months remain within the very high category. This persistent UV exposure highlights the importance of protective measures, such as sunscreen and clothing, throughout the year, especially during the intense dry season and into early summer.
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In Siem Reap, Cambodia, daylight duration exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, primarily influenced by its tropical climate and location near the equator. Both January and February experience approximately 11 hours of daylight, providing a balance between light and nighttime. As the calendar shifts to March, daylight begins to increase, extending to 12 hours and maintaining this duration through the following months of April, May, June, July, August, and September. This stable daylight duration during the peak summer seasons supports agricultural activities and tourism, as longer days offer more opportunities for outdoor pursuits.
As the year progresses into autumn, daylight hours consistently reduce again to 11 hours in October, and this duration persists through November and December. This seasonal shift back to the shorter days aligns with the gradual cooling of temperatures, particularly towards the end of the year. Overall, the modulation of daylight hours in Siem Reap serves as a natural rhythm, influencing daily life, cultural practices, and economic activities, accentuating an inherent connection between the environment and the lifestyle of the local population.
The climate in Angkor Thum, Cambodia, is characterized by a tropical wet and dry pattern, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (105°F) in May. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly from May to September, accumulating over 256 mm (10.1 in) in September alone. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the peak in March at 326 hours. Visitors can expect warm, humid conditions, especially during the rainy season. For more detailed information, visit Angkor Thum climate.
The climate in Bakong, Cambodia, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs reaching up to 38°C (101°F) in April and May. The rainy season typically occurs from May to October, with September experiencing the highest precipitation at 280 mm (11.0 in). During the dry months of January to March, sunshine is plentiful, with over 300 hours of sun each month. Overall, Bakong's climate is tropical, making it suitable for various agricultural activities. For more details, visit the Bakong climate.
The climate in Banteay Srei, Cambodia, features warm temperatures year-round, with average highs reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in April and May. January has the coolest temperatures, with averages around 26°C (80°F), while nights can drop to 13°C (56°F). The rainy season spans from May to October, peaking in September with 285 mm (11.2 in) of rainfall. Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, particularly in March with 326 hours. For more detailed information, visit Banteay Srei climate.
Siem Reap, Cambodia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to March, temperatures average between 27°C (81°F) and 30°C (86°F), peaking at around 37°C (99°F) in March. The rainy season commences in April with significant rainfall, peaking in September and October with over 240 mm (9.4 in) of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, especially from December to March, with January receiving around 260 hours. For more information, visit Siem Reap climate.
In conclusion, Siem Reap, Cambodia, showcases a captivating interplay of climate variables that fundamentally shapes its ecological landscape and cultural practices. With a clear distinction between hot, dry seasons and a pronounced rainy season marked by substantial precipitation and high UV indices, the region emphasizes the necessity for adaptive measures in tourism and daily life. The consistent daylight duration, coupled with the extended sunshine hours during the peak months, further enriches the area’s vibrant biodiversity and agricultural productivity. As global climate patterns evolve, understanding these local climatic nuances will be critical for sustainable development and resource management in Siem Reap, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy the region's remarkable natural beauty safely and responsibly.