Last updated: January 18, 2025
Rakhine, Myanmar, falls within the Köppen-Geiger climate classification of Am, characterized by a tropical monsoon climate. This region experiences a significant temperature range, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) recorded in January and soaring averages around 27°C (81°F) throughout the year. During the peak of summer in March, temperatures can escalate to a maximum of 39°C (102°F), illustrating the intense heat that defines the area's climate. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for addressing agricultural practices and managing water resources effectively in this vibrant and ecologically diverse region.
Rakhine, Myanmar exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, marked by a gradual increase as the region transitions from winter to summer. January begins with cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), before warming into February, where temperatures climb slightly to a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F). The rise continues sharply in March, peaking with a maximum of 39°C (102°F), signifying the onset of the hot season, which persists through April and May, where highs remain close to 38°C (101°F). Following this heat, June marks the onset of the monsoon, leading to a slight decrease in temperatures, but still retaining warm averages of 28°C (83°F). The late summer months of July and August experience stable temperatures around 25-28°C (77-83°F), before subtly cooling in September and October as the rains taper off. The season transitions back to cooler averages in November and December, completing the cycle with minimums dropping to 14°C (58°F), effectively framing a yearly pattern where temperatures peak in the hot, dry months, followed by a cooler, wetter season.
Sittwe experiences a varied climate, with January temperatures dropping to a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and warming up significantly to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) by March. For more detailed information on the monthly temperatures in Sittwe, visit monthly temperatures in Sittwe.
Rakhine, Myanmar experiences a pronounced pattern of precipitation throughout the year, characterized by a distinct dry season followed by a heavy monsoon phase. January opens the year with minimal rainfall, recording 28 mm (1.1 in) across a mere one day, while February sees virtually no rain. As March and April approach, light showers add 11 mm (0.4 in) and 14 mm (0.6 in), respectively, signaling a transition towards wetter conditions. This culminates in May, when rainfall sharply increases to 131 mm (5.1 in), foreshadowing the onset of the monsoon.
The monsoon months from June to August dominate Rakhine's climate, with June experiencing a dramatic 704 mm (27.7 in) of rain over 30 days, followed by 801 mm (31.5 in) in July and 569 mm (22.4 in) in August. As the rainy season progresses into September and October, precipitation begins to decrease, yet remains significant at 400 mm (15.7 in) and 197 mm (7.8 in), respectively. By November and December, the region transitions back to drier conditions, with rainfall dropping to 32 mm (1.3 in) and 7 mm (0.3 in), allowing for a brief respite before the cycle begins anew.
Rakhine, Myanmar demonstrates a notable pattern of sunshine duration that reflects its seasonal transitions, starting with the winter months. In January, the region enjoys around 260 hours of sunlight, which gradually increases in February to 303 hours. By March, sunshine peaks at 343 hours, marking the climax of the dry season and setting the stage for the warm summer months ahead. Although sunshine remains abundant in April and May with 339 and 353 hours, respectively, the transition into the monsoon period begins to show signs of reduced solar exposure.
As the monsoon takes hold in June, the duration of sunshine drops significantly to 248 hours, followed by a further decline in July to 244 hours, making it one of the least sunny months of the year. However, a gradual recovery occurs as the region moves into August and September, where sunshine hours rise slightly to 258 hours and 273 hours. The autumn months return to more favorable conditions, with October registering 302 hours, November at 307 hours, and December concluding the year with 316 hours. Overall, Rakhine's sunshine trends illustrate a clear seasonal rhythm, highlighting the stark contrast between the sun-drenched dry season and the markedly less sunny monsoon months.
Rakhine, Myanmar experiences a pronounced variability in the UV Index throughout the year, underlining the importance of sun protection during certain months. The year begins with a UV Index of 8 in January, categorized as very high, allowing for a burn time of just 15 minutes. This escalates to 10 in February and further reaches 12 by March, which is classified as extreme, reducing safe sun exposure to only 10 minutes. As the region transitions into the warmer months of April and May, the UV Index remains critically high at 11 and 13, respectively, emphasizing the need for protective measures during outdoor activities.
The intense sunlight continues through the monsoon season, with June and July both recording a peak UV Index of 13 and 14, indicating extremely high risk within a burn time of merely 10 minutes. The trend persists into August and September, where the index slightly drops to 14 and 13, but remains in the extreme category. As October approaches, the UV levels begin to taper to 11, and by November, it decreases to 9, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. December brings a slight respite with a UV Index of 7, categorized as high, and a burn time of 25 minutes. Overall, the data underscores the necessity for vigilant sun safety practices, especially during the peak summer months when the UV Index is at its most extreme.
UV Risk Categories
In Rakhine, Myanmar, the daylight duration undergoes a consistent yet subtle evolution throughout the year, reflecting the seasonal changes characteristic of tropical locales. January and February both feature approximately 11 hours of daylight, providing a stable foundation as the year begins. As March rolls in, daylight extends slightly to 12 hours, a change that persists through April. This increase continues into May, where residents enjoy 13 hours of daylight, coinciding with the advent of the warmer season and promoting various outdoor activities.
As summer progresses into June, July, and August, Rakhine maintains a steady 13 hours of daylight, fostering an environment conducive to both agriculture and tourism. However, as the year transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to wane, dropping back to 12 hours in September and October. By November, daylight decreases further to 11 hours, and ultimately, December closes the year with just 10 hours of daylight. This annual rhythm highlights Rakhine's unique climatic context, emphasizing the interplay between daylight and seasonal changes, which profoundly influence the daily life and activities of its residents.
Sittwe, Myanmar, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Average temperatures range from a cooler 21°C (71°F) in January to a peak of 30°C (86°F) in May, with maximums reaching up to 39°C (102°F) in March. Rainfall is significant from May to October, with July receiving the highest precipitation at 801 mm (31.5 in), while February is the driest month. The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in May with 353 hours. For more detailed information on the weather patterns, refer to Sittwe climate.
In conclusion, Rakhine, Myanmar presents a dynamic climate characterized by its temperature variations, precipitation patterns, abundant sunshine, high UV Index, and shifting daylight duration throughout the year. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct phases of hot, dry conditions transitioning into intense rainfall during the monsoon season. This climatic framework not only affects ecological diversity but also has significant implications for agricultural practices, outdoor activities, and health considerations related to sun exposure. Understanding these seasonal trends is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it fosters better planning and preparation for the diverse weather conditions that define life in this vibrant region of Myanmar.