North Sulawesi Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is characterized by a tropical rainforest climate under the Köppen-Geiger classification of Af. This region experiences a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F) in September, with an average temperature hovering around 26°C (79°F). The peak temperatures can soar to a maximum of 35°C (96°F), particularly during the month of September. The warm and consistent climate supports a rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems, making North Sulawesi a significant area for both ecological study and conservation.

North Sulawesi temperature by month

In North Sulawesi, Indonesia, temperature patterns exhibit subtle seasonal variations throughout the year. January marks the beginning of the cycle with minimum temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and maximums reaching 34°C (94°F), while February sees a slight dip in minimums to 19°C (66°F). As the months progress into the dry season, March and April maintain a stable average of 26°C (79°F), with maximums peaking at 34°C (93°F). The onset of May introduces a marginal increase in average temperatures to 27°C (80°F), while the maximums slightly decrease, suggesting a comfortable warmth. The mid-year months of June and July maintain a consistent average of 26°C (79°F), with maximums hovering around 32°C (90°F). August continues this trend, but September brings notable changes as it records the lowest minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F), alongside the highest maximum of 35°C (96°F), indicating a transitional phase before the cooler months. In October and November, temperatures stabilize once more, with averages around 27°C (80°F), while December resets the minimums to 20°C (68°F), rounding off the year with similar trends. Overall, North Sulawesi experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year, shaped by varying seasonal influences.

Monthly Temperatures in North Sulawesi, Indonesia

The chart illustrates North Sulawesi's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec797979798079797979808079
Data source: North Sulawesi temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

In September, Tomohon experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) as detailed at monthly temperatures in Tomohon. In contrast, Manado enjoys warmer conditions with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) in September and a maximum of 32°C (89°F) escalating into October, which can be found at monthly temperatures in Manado. Meanwhile, Likupang registers a minimum of 25°C (77°F) in February, peaking at 31°C (88°F) in August, according to monthly temperatures in Likupang.

Precipitation Patterns in North Sulawesi

North Sulawesi, Indonesia, experiences a distinct precipitation pattern characterized by its wet seasons and significant rainfall throughout the year. January opens with a substantial 261 mm (10.3 inches) of rainfall over approximately 22 days, while February follows closely with 204 mm (8.0 inches) across 23 days. The month of March sees another high level of precipitation at 260 mm (10.2 inches) over 25 days, setting the tone for an overall moist climate that persists into the months of April and May, which receive 242 mm (9.5 inches) and 280 mm (11.0 inches) respectively. Notably, June records the highest monthly rainfall at 327 mm (12.9 inches), showcasing the peak of the wet season.

As the wet season begins to transition, the precipitation begins to vary, with July still seeing substantial rainfall of 277 mm (10.9 inches), but it drops to 172 mm (6.8 inches) in August, the lowest monthly total for the year. September and October see moderate rainfall levels of 227 mm (8.9 inches) and 207 mm (8.1 inches), respectively, before November escalates back to 252 mm (9.9 inches). Finally, December wraps up the year with 262 mm (10.3 inches) of rainfall. This variation in precipitation underscores North Sulawesi's tropical climate, marked by a pronounced wet season that supports its rich ecosystems and agricultural practices.

Monthly Average Precipitation in North Sulawesi, Indonesia

The average monthly precipitation in North Sulawesi, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec261204260242280328277172227207252262
Data source: North Sulawesi precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in North Sulawesi

In North Sulawesi, Indonesia, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal trend, with daylight hours gradually increasing as the year progresses from January to August. The year begins with a moderate 227 hours of sunshine in January, which subsequently rises to 271 hours in February. As March approaches, the sunshine peaks further at 295 hours, setting the stage for an increasingly bright climate. April and May continue this upward trajectory, showcasing 289 hours and 299 hours of sunlight, respectively. It becomes increasingly apparent that late spring is a transition period, leading into the long sunny days of summer.

From June through August, North Sulawesi enjoys its peak sunshine, reaching a high of 306 hours in August. This period of extended daylight allows for vibrant ecosystems to thrive and encourages outdoor activities. However, the latter months of the year see a slight decline in sunshine hours, beginning with 292 hours in September and tapering off to 283 hours in December. Despite this decrease, October still boasts a respectable 301 hours of sunshine, ensuring that the region remains lively and warm. Overall, the pattern of rising sunshine hours peaking in summer followed by a gradual decline underscores North Sulawesi's tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for sunlight lovers.

Monthly Sunshine in North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight North Sulawesi receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec227h271h295h289h299h283h290h306h292h301h287h283h
Data source: North Sulawesi sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

North Sulawesi UV Index Trends

North Sulawesi, Indonesia, experiences exceptionally high UV Index values throughout the year, indicating a serious risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Beginning in January, the UV Index is recorded at 15, categorizing it as "extreme" with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues into February, where the UV Index rises slightly to 16 and reaches its peak in March at 17, compelling residents and visitors alike to exercise heightened caution when outdoors. Even as the year progresses into April and May, the UV Index remains elevated at 16 and 15, respectively, highlighting the relentless intensity of the sun during these months.

As the dry season transitions to the wetter months, the UV Index experiences a marginal decline. In June and July, it recedes to 13, still classified as "extreme" but offering a small respite for sun exposure. The UV Index gradually rises again in August at 14, before returning to 15 in September and October, maintaining the critical alert for sun safety. By November and December, the index settles at 14, still necessitating precautions against sunburn. Overall, the persistent extreme levels of the UV Index underscore the importance of protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing to mitigate the risks associated with high solar radiation in North Sulawesi.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for North Sulawesi, Indonesia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in North Sulawesi. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151617161513131415151414
Data source: North Sulawesi UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in North Sulawesi

In North Sulawesi, Indonesia, daylight duration remains consistently stable throughout the entire year, with each month enjoying an average of 12 hours of daylight. This characteristic is typical of tropical regions, where the equatorial position results in minimal variation in daylight hours. From January to December, the reliable 12-hour cycle of daylight promotes a steady rhythm for both natural ecosystems and human activities, offering ample sunlight for agriculture and outdoor pursuits.

This uniformity in daylight duration also suggests a climatic environment favorable for diverse wildlife, as plants and animals adapt to the consistent light conditions. The sustained day length ensures that flora can photosynthesize effectively, supporting lush greenery and rich biodiversity characteristic of the region. Consequently, the availability of equal daylight proportions throughout the year emphasizes North Sulawesi's stability, making it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking a vibrant ecosystem at any time.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in North Sulawesi, Indonesia

This chart shows the total daylight hours North Sulawesi receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec720h722h724h727h730h731h731h728h726h723h721h720h
Data source: North Sulawesi daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of North Sulawesi's Popular Destinations

Likupang, Indonesia experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Monthly average temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) to 28°C (82°F), with maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F) from July to October. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in January (286 mm) and December (271 mm), while August typically has the least precipitation (80 mm). Sunshine hours are plentiful, especially in August, with around 310 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Likupang climate.

Manado, Indonesia experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 27°C (81°F), with a maximum reaching up to 32°C (89°F) in October. Rainfall is highest during the wet season, particularly in June with 360 mm (14.2 in) and May with 277 mm (10.9 in), while August tends to be the driest month at 179 mm (7.1 in). Despite the heavy rains, the city enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in August, which sees around 310 hours. For more detailed information, visit Manado climate.

Tomohon, Indonesia experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature remains relatively stable at 25°C (77°F), with maximum temperatures reaching as high as 32°C (90°F) in April, May, and October. The region sees significant precipitation, particularly in June, with monthly totals exceeding 400 mm (16.5 in). Despite the abundant rainfall, sunshine is plentiful, especially from August to October, when hours of sunshine peak. For more detailed information, you can visit Tomohon climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a region defined by its stable and inviting climatic conditions, marked by consistent temperature patterns, significant precipitation, high levels of sunshine, extreme UV Index values, and a uniform daylight duration of 12 hours throughout the year. The tropical rainforest climate, characterized by humidity and warmth, supports a rich and diverse ecosystem that thrives under ample sunlight and moisture. However, the consistently high UV Index serves as a reminder of the importance of sun safety for residents and visitors alike. Overall, North Sulawesi's climate not only enhances its natural beauty but also offers a unique environment that invites exploration and appreciation of its vibrant landscapes and biodiversity.

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