Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kelantan, Malaysia, is characterized by its tropical rainforest climate, classified under the Koppen-Geiger system as Af. This region experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (64°F) in February, while the average temperature hovers around a warm 27°C (81°F). The climate peaks during March, where temperatures can escalate to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), illustrating the region's high humidity and significant thermal variability. The consistent warmth throughout the year, coupled with substantial rainfall, fosters rich biodiversity and lush landscapes, making Kelantan a vibrant representation of southeast Asia's tropical climate.
In Kelantan, Malaysia, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct tropical trend throughout the year. Beginning in January, the region experiences relatively cooler temperatures, with minimums around 18°C (64°F) and averages of 26°C (79°F). As the year progresses into March, temperatures rise, reaching a peak maximum of 38°C (101°F), reflecting the transition into the hotter months. By April and May, while minimums increase to 21°C (71°F) and 22°C (71°F) respectively, average temperatures remain consistently warm at 28°C (83°F). The summer months from June to August maintain similar thermal profiles, with maximums around 36°C (97°F), but a gradual decrease in extremes is observed in September and October, as temperatures begin to cool slightly. By November and December, the temperatures revert to the cooler range, with minimums around 19°C (67°F), culminating in a cyclical rhythm of warmth and resilience characteristic of the region's equatorial climate.
Kota Bharu experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in February and soaring to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in May. For more detailed monthly temperature insights, you can visit monthly temperatures in Kota Bharu.
Kelantan, Malaysia, experiences a pronounced wet season characterized by significant rainfall throughout the year, with the highest precipitation occurring from November to December. In January, the region receives substantial rainfall, measuring 220 mm (8.7 in) over about 20 days. This trend continues into the following months, with a notable drop in February to 77 mm (3.0 in), before gradually increasing again in April to 171 mm (6.7 in) as the rainy season approaches its peak. The period from May through October sees substantial precipitation, with averages fluctuating between 182 mm (7.2 in) in July and 272 mm (10.7 in) in October, indicating a consistent distribution of rainfall.
Notably, the months of November and December are marked by the highest rainfall totals, with November receiving an impressive 438 mm (17.2 in) spread over 28 days, making it the wettest month of the year. This significant precipitation not only sustains the lush tropical environment of Kelantan but also supports its rich biodiversity. The frequent rainfall throughout the year reflects the region's tropical monsoon climate, with a clear pattern of concentrated rainfall during the last quarter, creating a vibrant and sustaining ecosystem.
Kelantan, Malaysia, enjoys a diverse pattern of sunshine duration throughout the year, reflecting a transition from cooler to warmer months. January begins with 226 hours of sunshine, gradually giving way to an impressive increase as the year progresses. By March, the region experiences its peak sunshine duration, boasting 334 hours, which serves as a notable indicator that the sunny days are becoming increasingly prevalent. The subsequent months, from April through August, maintain a high average of over 300 hours, ensuring that residents and visitors can bask in abundant sunlight during the late spring and summer.
However, as the year moves towards its end, sunshine hours begin to taper off, particularly noticeable in November with only 250 hours and further declining to 270 hours in December. This decline corresponds with the onset of the rainy season, which typically brings increased cloud cover and precipitation. Compared to the peak months, the late-year sunshine hours illustrate a clear seasonal trend, highlighting the contrasting experiences of abundant sunlight and the grey, moisture-laden days typical of the region’s tropical climate. The consistent cycle of sunshine duration emphasizes Kelantan's vibrant atmosphere, fostering both agricultural vitality and recreational opportunities during the sunnier months.
Kelantan, Malaysia, experiences a high ultraviolet (UV) index throughout the year, marking a consistent risk for extreme sun exposure. The UV index reaches its zenith in February and March, peaking at 15 and 16, respectively, indicating that even very brief sun exposure, as little as 10 minutes, can lead to skin burns. This extreme exposure category underscores the importance of sun protection measures during these months, as the intensity of UV radiation can significantly increase the risk of skin damage and heat-related illnesses.
As the year progresses, the UV index remains notably high, maintaining values between 12 and 16 until the end of the year, with July being slightly lower at 12. Even during the cooler months, such as December, the UV index averages 12, emphasizing that the threat remains significant year-round in Kelantan. Given the consistent extreme exposure ratings, residents and visitors are urged to prioritize protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and shade during outdoor activities to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure in this tropical environment.
UV Risk Categories
In Kelantan, Malaysia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, ranging from 11 to 12 hours daily. In the early months of January and February, the region experiences a consistent 11 hours of daylight, providing a gentle start to the year. As March arrives, daylight begins to extend, reaching 12 hours and maintaining this duration for the subsequent months from April through August. This consistent daylight allows for ample sunlight, fostering vibrant outdoor activities and agricultural productivity during the more illuminated periods.
The daylight hours begin to taper again in September, reverting to 12 hours before transitioning back to 11 hours in October. This slight fluctuation between 11 and 12 hours reflects the minimal seasonal variation typical of equatorial climates. Throughout the year, residents of Kelantan enjoy a dependable rhythm of daylight that supports both daily life and ecological dynamics, while also highlighting the region's unique position near the equator, where daylight duration remains relatively constant regardless of the season.
Kota Bharu, Malaysia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in May, with maximums peaking at 38°C (101°F) in May. The region sees its highest precipitation in November, receiving around 440 mm (17.3 in), while the wettest months are June through October. Despite the rain, sunshine hours are relatively consistent, with March boasting the highest at 336 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kota Bharu climate.
In conclusion, Kelantan's climate is defined by its tropical rainforest humidity, marked by consistently high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. The region’s UV index remains predominantly extreme, necessitating caution and sun protection for outdoor activities, particularly during the peak months of February and March. Across the seasons, daylight duration remains relatively stable, providing a reliable environment conducive to agriculture and community life. Together, these climatic factors create a rich tapestry of natural biodiversity and cultural vibrancy, making Kelantan an integral part of Malaysia’s ecological and social landscape.