Last updated: January 18, 2025
South Sulawesi, Indonesia, exhibits a tropical climate characterized by Köppen-Geiger classifications Af and Am, resulting in a warm and diverse atmospheric environment. Throughout the year, temperatures fluctuate significantly, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) recorded in September and peaking at 39°C (103°F) in December. The region maintains an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), contributing to its lush ecosystems and vibrant agricultural landscapes. Seasonal variations underscore the importance of understanding the region's climate patterns, which directly influence local biodiversity and the livelihoods of its residents.
In South Sulawesi, Indonesia, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal trend influenced by the tropical climate. January through April shows consistently warm conditions, with minimum temperatures hovering around 15°C (59°F) and maximums reaching between 37°C (99°F) and 38°C (100°F). As May progresses into the cooler dry months of June and July, the minimum temperatures drop slightly, with July recording the lowest at 13°C (55°F), while maximums remain comparatively stable. The transitional months of August and September witness a notable increase in maximum temperatures, culminating in a peak of 39°C (102°F). Following this brief warm spike, temperatures stabilize again in October and November, maintaining high maximums of 39°C (103°F) before returning to milder conditions in December with average readings around 26°C (79°F). Overall, South Sulawesi experiences a relatively constant average temperature throughout the year, characterized by minor fluctuations and seasonal variations in extremes.
In South Sulawesi, the climate varies notably across different locations. Maros experiences a minimum temperature of 23°C (73°F) in July and peaks at 31°C (88°F) in October, making it relatively warm year-round; further details can be found at monthly temperatures in Maros. Rantepao, on the other hand, has a cooler minimum of 15°C (59°F) in September, with a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in February, as detailed at monthly temperatures in Rantepao. Meanwhile, Makassar records a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) in July and reaches up to 36°C (96°F) in September, as outlined at monthly temperatures in Makassar.
South Sulawesi experiences a pronounced monsoonal climate, with precipitation levels peaking from January to April. During this wet season, rainfall reaches its highest in March, totaling 384 mm (15.1 in) across 27 days, creating a lush and vibrant landscape. February also contributes significantly, with 326 mm (12.8 in) of rain over 24 days, while January follows closely with 310 mm (12.2 in), resulting in a humid atmosphere. As the region transitions into the dry season from May to August, a stark reduction in rainfall is observed; May records 261 mm (10.3 in), followed by June with 272 mm (10.7 in), and further declines to only 123 mm (4.8 in) in August.
Towards the end of the dry season and into the wet season again, rainfall gradually increases. September sees an uptick with 129 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, and October continues this trend with 146 mm (5.8 in). November, marking the approach of the heaviest rains once again, accumulates 268 mm (10.6 in) across 23 days, while December brings back the wet conditions with 321 mm (12.7 in) over 27 days. This annual precipitation pattern highlights the region's reliance on monsoonal rains, shaping both its ecological diversity and agricultural cycles.
In South Sulawesi, sunshine duration reveals distinct seasonal trends that reflect the region's tropical climate. Beginning in January with 224 hours of sunlight, the months gradually increase in brightness, culminating in a remarkable peak during the dry season. By August, the region enjoys a flourishing 305 hours of sunshine, indicating the height of sunny days that promotes outdoor activities and agricultural growth. This trend highlights not only the progressive rise in sunshine but also the importance of these sunny months for local farming, as crops thrive in the abundant light.
As the year transitions from summer into the more overcast months of late autumn and early winter, sunshine hours begin to taper off gradually. Despite a slight decrease to 291 hours in July and 287 hours in May, the drop becomes more pronounced by November, which sees around 281 hours of sunlight. By December, sunshine duration retreats to 274 hours, signaling the onset of the wetter season, where cloud cover can limit sunlight. This cyclical pattern underscores South Sulawesi's reliance on both sunshine and rain, as the interplay between these elements shapes the lush environment and supports the livelihoods of its communities.
The UV Index in South Sulawesi consistently reflects an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure throughout the year. From January to April, the UV Index remains notably high, peaking at 17 in February, March, and April. During these months, residents and visitors alike face a burn time of just 10 minutes, necessitating protective measures such as sunscreen or clothing to prevent skin damage. This prolonged period of extreme UV exposure serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and preparedness, particularly for outdoor activities.
As the year progresses, while there are minor fluctuations in UV intensity, the exposure remains in the extreme category. From May to December, the UV Index ranges between 13 and 17, with slightly lower values observed in June and July, both at 13. However, even during these months, a burn can occur in just 10 minutes. Notably, October and November return to 16, emphasizing the persistent risks associated with sun exposure in the region. Overall, the unyielding extremes of the UV Index throughout the year highlight the crucial need for sun safety practices in South Sulawesi’s bright tropical climate.
UV Risk Categories
In South Sulawesi, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, reflecting the region's equatorial climate. From January to March, residents experience a consistent 12 hours of daylight, which fosters a sense of regularity in daily activities and agricultural practices. As the year transitions to April, daylight hours decrease slightly to 11 hours, continuing through the middle months, May to August. This reduction in daylight aligns with the wet season, imparting a unique rhythm to life in the area as activities adapt to shorter days.
As September approaches, daylight duration begins to increase once again, returning to 12 hours by the end of the month and persisting through October, November, and December. This cycle highlights the natural patterns of light in South Sulawesi, showcasing the equatorial climate's minimal seasonal variation in daylight. The consistency of daylight hours throughout the year supports various local industries, including farming, where knowledge of sunlight patterns is crucial for crop planning and cultivation.
Makassar, Indonesia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Monthly average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in May and October, with maximums peaking at 36°C (96°F) in September. The rainy season typically spans from November to February, with January receiving the highest precipitation of 389 mm (15.3 in). Despite the rainfall, the city enjoys ample sunshine, especially from June to October, with over 300 hours of sunshine recorded in several months. For more detailed information, visit Makassar climate.
The climate in Maros, Indonesia, is characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (80°F) in January and February to 28°C (82°F) in May and October, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F) during certain months. Rainfall peaks in January with 426 mm (16.8 in) and December with 474 mm (18.7 in), while August sees the least precipitation at just 46 mm (1.8 in). The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in August and October, which have over 300 hours of sun each. For more details, visit Maros climate.
Rantepao, Indonesia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) to 24°C (75°F), with peak monthly highs reaching 33°C (92°F) during the wet season in February and December. Precipitation is heaviest from March to April, peaking at 637 mm (25.1 in) in March, while the drier months of July and August see about 135 mm (5.3 in). Despite the rain, sunshine is plentiful, especially from June to October, with July boasting up to 282 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Rantepao climate.
In conclusion, South Sulawesi's climate, characterized by its tropical temperatures, seasonal precipitation patterns, high UV Index, and consistent daylight duration, significantly influences the region's ecological diversity and human activities. The pronounced wet and dry seasons underscore the importance of adapting agricultural practices and lifestyle choices to optimize productivity and well-being. Additionally, the extreme UV Index necessitates ongoing awareness and sun safety measures, particularly during peak exposure months. Overall, understanding these climatic elements is vital for fostering sustainable practices and enhancing quality of life in this vibrant part of Indonesia.