Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kachin, Myanmar, boasts a Cwa climate classification, characterized by distinct seasons featuring a humid subtropical climate. January experiences cooler temperatures, with minima around 7°C (46°F), while the region heats up significantly by May, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 41°C (106°F). The annual average temperature hovers around 25°C (76°F), illustrating a warm climate that supports diverse ecosystems and agricultural activities. This climatic profile highlights the region's seasonal variability and its implications for local weather patterns and societal practices.
Kachin, Myanmar, experiences notable seasonal temperature variations throughout the year, beginning with cooler conditions in January and February, where minimum temperatures gradually rise from 7°C (46°F) to 9°C (48°F). As spring progresses into March and April, temperatures increase significantly, with March recording maximums of 37°C (99°F) and April reaching 40°C (105°F), signaling the onset of warmer weather. By May, the climate peaks, with temperatures soaring to 41°C (106°F) before transitioning into the rainy season starting in June. During the summer months of June through August, temperatures remain relatively stable, averaging around 28°C (82°F), while maximums drop slightly compared to May. September marks a gradual retreat from the heat, cooling down to a more temperate range, with averages dropping to 27°C (82°F) and minimums hitting 21°C (70°F). The year concludes with early winter in December, which sees minimum temperatures again dip to 9°C (48°F), thereby completing a cycle of distinct seasonal thermal patterns that define Kachin's climate.
Bhamo experiences a minimum temperature of 9°C (48°F) in January and can reach a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in May, while Myitkyina records slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in January and peaks at 41°C (106°F) in May. For more detailed information, visit the links for monthly temperatures in Bhamo and monthly temperatures in Myitkyina.
Kachin, Myanmar, exhibits a distinct precipitation pattern that underscores its humid subtropical climate. The year starts off relatively dry, with January and February recording minimal rainfall of 15 mm (0.6 in) and 8 mm (0.3 in), respectively. As March approaches, precipitation begins to escalate, peaking dramatically in the monsoon months of June, July, and August, with 324 mm (12.8 in), 419 mm (16.5 in), and 469 mm (18.5 in) falling during these months. This substantial rainfall is complemented by increased rainy days, peaking at nearly 29 days in both July and August, marking a significant shift towards a wetter climate.
The rainy season not only contributes to the robust annual totals but also impacts the dry months that follow. After the June-August deluge, precipitation drops sharply in September to 233 mm (9.2 in), before gradually declining to 115 mm (4.5 in) in October and 24 mm (0.9 in) in November, with only occasional rainfall by December at 7 mm (0.3 in). This cyclical pattern underscores Kachin's rich hydrological regime, essential for supporting its lush landscapes and agricultural practices, yet also highlights the critical reliance on a concentrated wet season for water supply throughout the year.
Kachin, Myanmar, demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern in sunshine duration, with a noticeable increase from winter to summer. January starts the year with 248 hours of sunshine, gradually escalating through February to 294 hours and reaching its peak in May with 343 hours. This upward trend highlights the transition from the cooler months toward the warmer, sunnier conditions typical of late spring. The spring months of March and April also contribute significantly, featuring 334 hours and 327 hours, respectively, ensuring ample sunlight for growth and agricultural activities during this vibrant season.
As Kachin enters the summer monsoon period, sunshine hours take a dip, with June providing only 239 hours. The decline continues into July, which sees the lowest sunshine duration of the year at just 204 hours. Although August shows a slight recovery to 237 hours, the overall pattern indicates that the heavy rainfall of the monsoon season significantly limits sunshine. Following this sun-deprived period, September marks a gradual increase to 258 hours, with October and November rebounding to 298 hours and 300 hours, respectively. By December, the region enjoys 304 hours of sunshine, reflecting a return to clearer skies as the year draws to a close. This cyclical fluctuation underscores the importance of the sun's presence in supporting the region's ecosystems and agricultural practices throughout the distinct seasons.
The UV Index in Kachin, Myanmar, reveals significant variation throughout the year, with particularly high levels during the late spring and summer months. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 6, labeled as "high," individuals are cautioned to limit their sun exposure to avoid harmful effects, with a recommended burn time of 25 minutes. However, this index escalates rapidly as the year progresses; by February, the UV Index reaches 8 (very high), and it intensifies further in March and April, peaking at 10. The month of May marks the onset of extreme UV conditions, soaring to 13, prompting a shortening of safe exposure times to just 10 minutes.
During the summer, especially in July, the UV Index climbs to its highest recorded level at 14, remaining in the "extreme" category through August and tapering only slightly in September and October. This extreme UV exposure necessitates protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing to prevent skin damage. By November, the UV Index declines to 8 (very high) and drops further to 7 in December, providing a respite from intense sun exposure. Overall, understanding these UV trends is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as they highlight seasonal risks and necessary precautions to preserve skin health throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Kachin, Myanmar, daylight duration exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, beginning with shorter days in winter months and gradually extending as the year progresses. In January, the region experiences about 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 11 hours in February. This upward trend continues through March, where day length reaches 12 hours, before plateauing in April and May. During these months, with 12 to 13 hours of daylight, residents enjoy extended hours of sunlight, conducive to agricultural practices and outdoor activities.
As the transition into the monsoon season occurs in June, daylight duration stabilizes at a consistent 13 hours, reflecting the longest days of the year. Following this peak, daylight begins to decrease slightly in August and September, remaining around 12 hours. The decline continues through October, returning to 11 hours in November, before stabilizing at 10 hours once again in December. This cyclical fluctuation illuminates the seasonal rhythms of Kachin, influencing not only daily life but also the region's ecological dynamics and agricultural cycles throughout the year.
Bhamo, Myanmar experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon months from June to August. Average temperatures range from a mild 9°C (48°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in May, with a general increase as the year progresses. Rainfall peaks in July at 375 mm (14.8 in), contributing to a humid environment, while January and February are notably drier with minimal precipitation. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with the sunniest months being March to May, offering up to 343 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Bhamo climate.
Myitkyina, Myanmar, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season from June to September. The temperature ranges from a cool 7°C (46°F) in January to a sweltering 41°C (106°F) in May. Rainfall peaks in July and August, accumulating over 471 mm (18.5 in), while the dry months like January feature only about 15 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation. Despite the heavy rains in summer, Myitkyina enjoys ample sunshine, especially in March and May, boasting up to 343 hours of sunlight. For more information, visit Myitkyina climate.
In summary, the climatic and environmental patterns of Kachin, Myanmar, reveal a region characterized by distinct seasonal changes that impact temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight duration. From the warm, sunny months rich in agricultural potential to the cooling rains of the monsoon season, each aspect of Kachin's climate plays a vital role in shaping the local ecosystem and the daily lives of its residents. Understanding these trends is essential for effective planning in agriculture, health precautions against UV exposure, and adaptive strategies for water resource management. As such, a comprehensive awareness of Kachin’s climatic conditions and their seasonal variability can better equip individuals and communities to thrive in this vibrant region.