Last updated: January 18, 2025
South Kalimantan, Indonesia, is characterized by its tropical rainforest climate (Köppen-Geiger class Af), providing an abundance of rainfall and a consistently warm temperature profile. During the year, temperatures vary minimally, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) recorded in August and an average of approximately 27°C (80°F). The region experiences its highest temperatures in October, reaching up to 39°C (102°F). This climatic pattern underlines the significance of South Kalimantan in sustaining diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices, while also posing challenges related to heat stress and humidity.
Temperature patterns in South Kalimantan, Indonesia, exhibit a warm and consistent tropical climate throughout the year, with minimal fluctuations. The year begins with relatively stable temperatures, where the minimums hover around 21°C (70°F) in January and February, while average temperatures remain at about 26°C (80°F). As the months progress towards mid-year, slight increases in minimum temperatures by one degree can be observed, peaking in August at a minimum of 18°C (65°F), yet averaging around 27°C (81°F) consistently. October marks the highest extremes, with maximum temperatures climbing to 39°C (102°F), illustrating a trend of elevated heat just before the onset of the rainy season. This cycle transitions into cooler temperatures by December, but the averages remain stable, allowing for a warm and humid climate that influences the region's diverse ecosystems and agricultural activities year-round.
In September, Banjarmasin experiences a minimum temperature of 22°C (71°F), while in October, temperatures rise, reaching a maximum of 36°C (97°F). For more detailed insights on the climate, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Banjarmasin.
Precipitation in South Kalimantan, Indonesia, is characterized by a pronounced wet season, with significant rainfall occurring from January through March. January and February see substantial rainfall, with averages of 253 mm (10.0 in) and 248 mm (9.8 in) respectively, accompanied by 23 and 24 rainy days. March experiences the highest levels of precipitation, reaching 315 mm (12.4 in) over 28 days, highlighting the peak of the wet season. This trend continues with consistent rainfall into April with 254 mm (10.0 in), although the total begins to decline in May, marking a gradual transition toward drier conditions.
As the dry season approaches in the mid-year months, precipitation significantly decreases, with July and August recording the lowest rainfall at 136 mm (5.3 in) and 113 mm (4.5 in), occurring over just 19 and 16 days respectively. In September, the rainfall increases slightly to 131 mm (5.2 in), but the overall trend remains predominantly dry until October, when the precipitation rises again to 158 mm (6.2 in). The rainy season resumes in earnest during November and December, bringing 278 mm (10.9 in) and 277 mm (10.9 in), respectively, as precipitation levels rebound along with an increased number of rainy days, culminating the annual hydrological cycle.
In South Kalimantan, Indonesia, sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with hours of sun steadily increasing as the year progresses towards the dry season. Starting from 211 hours in January, the sunshine hours gradually rise, reaching 268 hours by March. This upward trend continues through the months leading into the peak of the dry season, with May recording 282 hours and June adding further light with 275 hours. As the more arid months of July and August arrive, sunlight reaches its zenith, peaking at 293 hours and 295 hours respectively. This impressive increase in sunshine correlates with reduced precipitation during the dry season, underscoring the seasonal transition from wet to dry.
As the year transitions back to the rainy season, sunshine hours begin to decline, albeit more gradually than the earlier rise. September and October still enjoy ample sunlight, with 281 hours and 283 hours respectively. However, November and December see a notable reduction in sunshine, dropping to 251 hours and 255 hours. This decrease coincides with the onset of heavier rainfall, reflective of the climatic shifts typical in tropical regions. Overall, South Kalimantan's annual sunshine pattern highlights distinct dry and wet seasons, providing essential insights into the region's climate dynamics and informing agricultural practices and local lifestyle adaptations.
South Kalimantan, Indonesia, experiences consistently high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels throughout the year, with UV Index values predominantly classified as extreme. January starts with a UV Index of 15, which rises to a peak of 17 in March, indicating a significant potential for skin damage with just 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. This extreme UV intensity persists into April before gradually diminishing to 14 in May and subsequently 12 in June and July. Despite these reductions, the UV Index remains markedly high, reflecting the region's tropical climate where sun exposure is a year-round concern.
From August onwards, the UV Index shows slight fluctuations but remains predominantly in the extreme range, with values returning to 15 in September and 16 in October. Exposure category ratings consistently highlight the urgent need for protective measures against harmful UV rays, as even short durations can lead to significant skin damage. With 10 minutes being the critical burn time, residents and visitors must prioritize sun safety through the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and limited sun exposure during peak hours. This persistent risk underscores the importance of public awareness in maintaining skin health amidst South Kalimantan's intense tropical sun.
UV Risk Categories
In South Kalimantan, Indonesia, daylight duration exhibits relatively little variation throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. From January to April, daylight consistently spans 12 hours, providing ample light for daily activities and agricultural practices. This stable exposure to sunlight is emblematic of tropical climates, where the length of day remains fairly constant regardless of seasonal shifts.
As the year progresses into May through August, daylight reduces to 11 hours, indicating a slight seasonal change. This decrease is subtle but marks the region's approach to the mid-year months, which can coincide with variations in weather patterns. By September, daylight returns to 12 hours, maintaining this duration through November and December. The overall consistency in daylight hours throughout the year underscores South Kalimantan's unique climatic characteristics, allowing residents to plan their activities and agricultural cycles with relative predictability.
Banjarmasin, Indonesia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with average temperatures around 27°C (81°F). The city receives substantial precipitation, peaking in March with 338 mm (13.3 in) and generally decreasing from June to August. Despite the rain, July and August enjoy the highest sunshine hours, averaging around 298 hours. For more details, visit Banjarmasin climate.
In conclusion, South Kalimantan, Indonesia, presents a unique tropical climate characterized by consistent high temperatures, abundant rainfall, and significant UV exposure, coupled with stable daylight duration throughout the year. The region's pronounced wet and dry seasons create distinct patterns in temperature and precipitation that shape the local ecosystem and agricultural practices. Furthermore, the extreme UV Index emphasizes the need for sun protection among residents and visitors alike. Overall, understanding these climatic factors is essential for sustainable living and effective resource management in South Kalimantan, ensuring a balance between harnessing natural resources and safeguarding health amid the region's dynamic environmental conditions.