Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Philippines, is characterized by a tropical climate classified under Koppen-Geiger as Af, Aw, and Am. With a minimum temperature dropping to 15°C (59°F) in February, the region experiences an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) throughout the year. The maximum temperature can soar to 39°C (103°F) in April, showcasing the climatic variability and emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies in the face of climatic extremes. This dynamic interplay of temperatures influences local ecosystems and livelihoods, highlighting the importance of understanding ARMM's unique climate patterns.
The temperature patterns in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao exhibit distinctive seasonal trends throughout the year. January and February mark the cooler months, with minimum temperatures around 15-16°C (59-61°F) and maximums reaching 37-38°C (100-101°F). As the region transitions into March and April, temperatures begin to warm up, with April recording the highest maximum of 39°C (103°F), reflecting the onset of the hotter season. May through August maintains relatively stable temperatures, with consistent averages of 27°C (81°F) and maximums often hovering around 39°C (102°F) early in May before cooling slightly into the following months. The temperature begins to dip slightly again from September to December, as the region returns to the cooler conditions established earlier in the year, reaffirming a cyclical climatic pattern marked by minor fluctuations but persistent warmth overall.
Bongao and Sapa both experience mild temperatures, with minimums of 25°C (77°F) in February and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F) in May, as detailed in their respective climate links: monthly temperatures in Bongao and monthly temperatures in Sapa. In contrast, Marawi City has a broader temperature range, with a cooler minimum of 17°C (64°F) in February and warmer maximums peaking at 32°C (89°F) in July, as indicated in the link: monthly temperatures in Marawi City.
Precipitation in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao showcases a distinct seasonal pattern, largely influenced by the tropical climate. The year begins with relatively high rainfall in January at 179 mm (7.1 in), tapering off to 122 mm (4.8 in) in February. As March approaches, precipitation increases again, with 158 mm (6.2 in) recorded. The onset of the wet season begins in May, marking the peak of rainfall, where 265 mm (10.4 in) is observed, followed by similarly high totals in June (264 mm) and July (261 mm), creating a trend of elevated precipitation during the mid-year months.
The latter half of the year continues to exhibit substantial rainfall, peaking in October with 285 mm (11.2 in), before gradually decreasing as the year closes. Average rainfall remains significant throughout November (212 mm) and December (194 mm), although the precipitation tends to be less intense compared to May through October. Interestingly, the number of rainfall days peaks during the wet season, with 25 days of rain in both June and July, suggesting that even during drier months, brief but intense downpours contribute substantially to the region's overall precipitation profile.
Sunshine duration in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao reveals a clear seasonal trend, characterized by an increase in sunlight hours from the cooler months into the warmer season. Beginning in January with 228 hours of sunshine, the region experiences a steady rise through February with 273 hours, leading to March, which sees the most sunshine of the entire year at 304 hours. This peak in March transitions smoothly into April and May, where sunshine duration remains impressive at 300 hours, indicating that these months provide consistent exposure to sunlight, favoring agricultural activities and outdoor pursuits.
As the region moves into the latter half of the year, there is a subtle decline in sunshine hours, with June through October witnessing slightly lower totals in the range of 273-288 hours. Month by month, the region continues to receive ample sunlight, but the slight reduction signals the onset of the wet season, which often brings increased cloud cover. Notably, November and December show a modest increase in sunshine hours again, suggesting a gradual return to clearer skies. Overall, the sunshine patterns underscore the balance between daylight abundance and the region's distinct wet and dry seasons, providing vital insights for those engaged in agriculture and tourism planning in the area.
The Ultraviolet (UV) Index in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao demonstrates extreme values throughout the year, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting in January with a UV Index of 14, it rises sharply in February to 15, reaching its peak of 17 in both March and April. This high level of UV radiation underscores the necessity for individuals to take protective measures, as even a brief exposure of just 10 minutes can lead to skin damage. The extreme category remains consistent, reinforcing the idea that residents and visitors should remain vigilant in their sun safety practices, especially during these sun-soaked months.
As the year progresses into the second half, the UV Index remains notably high but begins to taper slightly, reflecting values of 14 in June and July, before stabilizing at 15 in August and September. Despite these figures being marginally lower, the burn time remains critically short at 10 minutes, necessitating ongoing sun protection strategies. By November and December, the UV Index gradually decreases to 13 and 12, respectively, still categorized as extreme. This persistence throughout the year reveals the region's consistent exposure to intense UV radiation, emphasizing the importance of habitual sun safety measures for the health and well-being of its inhabitants and visitors.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao exhibits a remarkably stable pattern throughout the year, with slight variations that align with the changing seasons. The year begins in January and February with consistent daylight lasting for 11 hours, providing ample light for daily activities. As March arrives, daylight increases to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April, May, and the summer months of June, July, and August. This period of extended daylight reflects the region's proximity to the equator, facilitating longer days that can positively impact agricultural cycles and outdoor engagement.
As the year progresses into September, daylight remains steady at 12 hours before gradually tapering back to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This pattern highlights a definitive transition to shorter daylight hours during the latter part of the year, aligning with seasonal adjustments. Despite these fluctuations, the overall daylight duration remains relatively consistent, offering an uninterrupted rhythm for both the people and the ecosystems of the region. This consistency in daylight duration plays a crucial role in shaping lifestyle practices and agricultural planting schedules within the Autonomous Region.
Bongao, Philippines experiences a tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, ranging from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). The wettest months are June and May, receiving up to 207 mm (8.1 in) of rainfall, while February is the driest month with 95 mm (3.7 in). The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in March and May, with over 300 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Bongao climate.
Marawi City, Philippines experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 25°C (77°F), with highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F) in July. The city receives its highest rainfall in May (429 mm) and June (444 mm), while January typically sees the least precipitation (294 mm). Sunshine hours peak in March and April, each offering around 295 hours of sunlight. For more information, visit Marawi City climate.
Sapa, Philippines experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) in the cooler months to around 28°C (82°F) during the warmer months, with maximum temperatures peaking at 30°C (86°F) in May. Precipitation is highest from June to October, with July receiving up to 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain. Despite the rainfall, Sapa enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from March to May, when it can receive over 300 hours of sun. For more details on the climate, visit Sapa climate.
In conclusion, the climatic characteristics of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao manifest through its temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight patterns, creating a unique environmental tapestry that influences daily life and livelihoods. The region's tropical climate features consistent warmth throughout the year, coupled with significant seasonal rainfall that peaks during the wet months. Simultaneously, abundant sunshine and extreme UV Index levels necessitate proactive sun safety measures for inhabitants and visitors alike. The stable daylight duration provides a foundational rhythm for agricultural activities and community life, underscoring the need for effective adaptation strategies. Collectively, understanding these climatic dynamics is essential for promoting sustainable practices and enhancing the resilience of the region's ecosystems and communities in the face of ongoing climate variability.