Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Chanthaburi, Thailand is characterized primarily by its tropical monsoon classification, falling under the Köppen-Geiger climate classes of Am and Aw. With a minimum temperature dipping to 14°C (57°F) in January, the region experiences an average temperature of 27°C (81°F), culminating in a soaring maximum of 38°C (100°F) during March. This diverse temperature range greatly influences the local ecosystems and agricultural practices, highlighting Chanthaburi's unique climatic profile within Southeast Asia.
Chanthaburi, Thailand exhibits distinct temperature patterns throughout the year, characterized by a warm tropical climate. From January to March, temperatures gradually rise, beginning with cooler conditions in January, where the minimum can drop to 14°C (57°F), and culminating in the peak heat of March, which sees maximum temperatures reaching 38°C (100°F). As the transition to the rainy season occurs in April and May, the minimum temperatures slightly increase while the maximums remain high, averaging around 36-37°C (97-99°F). The summer months of June through September maintain relatively stable temperatures, with average daily highs around 34°C (93°F), while the minimums hover between 22°C (72°F) and 23°C (73°F). Finally, the year concludes with a return to cooler conditions in December, where temperatures dip back to a minimum of 14°C (58°F), thereby creating a cyclical pattern of seasonal warmth and cooler interludes.
Khao Khitchakut experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in January to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in December, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Khao Khitchakut. In comparison, Chanthaburi has slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in January and a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in April, which can be explored further at monthly temperatures in Chanthaburi.
Chanthaburi, Thailand experiences a pronounced wet season, particularly from May to September, when precipitation levels peak along with the number of rainy days. The precipitation begins to rise notably in March, with 89 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days, but it is in April that significant rainfall starts, recording 131 mm (5.2 in) across 21 days. The region then enters its rainiest months, with June and July accumulating 310 mm (12.2 in) and 352 mm (13.9 in), respectively, characterized by nearly daily rainfall. September follows closely with 376 mm (14.8 in) of rain, underscoring the intensity of the monsoon season.
As the rainy season draws to a close in October, precipitation decreases to 274 mm (10.8 in) over 24 days, while November and December witness a sharp decline, with only 55 mm (2.1 in) and 27 mm (1.1 in) recorded over 10 and 4 days, respectively. The drier months of January and February see markedly lower rainfall, with January receiving just 32 mm (1.3 in) across 5 days and February recording 27 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days. This seasonal transition from heavy rains to drier conditions significantly influences the area's agricultural cycles and natural ecosystems.
Chanthaburi, Thailand, witnesses a clear annual rhythm in sunshine duration, with notable peaks occurring in the months leading up to the monsoon season. January marks the beginning of the year with 255 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 295 hours in February and reaching a high of 324 hours in March. This consistent rise culminates in April, where sunny days remain plentiful, clocking in at 307 hours. The onset of the rainy season in May sees a slight dip to 294 hours, yet the overall trend remains robust, maintaining a favorable amount of sunshine throughout the early months of the wet season.
As summer progresses into the months of June, July, and August, sunshine duration continues to decline, with hours recorded at 277, 268, and 261, respectively. Notably, September experiences the least amount of sunshine, with only 249 hours, indicative of the peak monsoon period in the region. However, as the year transitions into the last quarter, sunshine begins to recover, with October offering 270 hours and November increasing to 298 hours. By December, the duration again rises to 314 hours, closing the year on a bright note. This cyclical pattern highlights Chanthaburi's dynamic climate, where sunshine is abundant before and after the heavy rains but tends to diminish during the peak of the wet season.
Chanthaburi, Thailand, experiences consistently high ultraviolet (UV) index levels throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of sun protection. The UV Index peaks from January to March, reaching extraordinary values of 11, 13, and 15, respectively, all falling under the "extreme" exposure category. Even in April and May, the index remains elevated at 14, maintaining the extreme classification, with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. This intense UV radiation underscores the necessity for residents and visitors to adopt protective measures, especially during these peak months.
As the rainy season approaches, the UV Index stabilizes around 13 to 14 from June to September, but the exposure remains critically high. October also reflects a UV Index of 13, ensuring that the sun's harmful rays are still a concern. The year winds down with a gradual decrease, as November shows a lower index of 11 and December a very high index of 10, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. These patterns highlight the consistent threat posed by UV radiation in Chanthaburi, reminding all to remain vigilant about sun safety year-round.
UV Risk Categories
In Chanthaburi, Thailand, daylight duration remains relatively consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical climate. Both January and February offer approximately 11 hours of daylight, creating a balance in the early months of the year. As the days lengthen, March brings an increase to 12 hours, a trend that persists through April, May, and the subsequent months of June, July, August, and September, where daylight duration stabilizes at this peak of 12 hours. This steady exposure plays a crucial role in the local ecosystems and influences daily activities in the region.
As the year progresses into October, daylight once again decreases to 11 hours, paralleling the patterns observed at the year's start. This reduction continues into November and December, with daylight duration remaining at 11 hours in these final months. Such seasonal variations in daylight duration illustrate the subtropical characteristics of Chanthaburi, providing an engaging backdrop for exploring the area's rich biodiversity and cultural practices. Despite the minor fluctuations, the relatively uniform daylight hours contribute to a steady rhythm in both nature and daily life.
Chanthaburi, Thailand, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Monthly average temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) in January and December to a peak of 29°C (84°F) from April to May. Precipitation varies significantly, with the wettest months from May to September, where rainfall exceeds 270 mm (10.7 in) per month. Despite the rain, the region enjoys a good amount of sunshine, peaking at 329 hours in March. For more detailed information, visit Chanthaburi climate.
Khao Khitchakut, Thailand, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in January and December to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) during the warmer months. Precipitation is notably high from May to September, with July and August receiving over 380 mm (15 inches) each, contributing to the region's lush greenery. Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking in March with 323 hours, making it a bright and inviting destination. For more detailed information, visit Khao Khitchakut climate.
In conclusion, Chanthaburi, Thailand, exemplifies a unique tropical climate characterized by high temperatures, significant precipitation during the monsoon season, and consistent UV exposure. The region enjoys ample sunlight throughout the year, particularly from January to September, while daylight duration remains fairly stable at around 11 to 12 hours. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it informs practices related to agriculture, outdoor activities, and health precautions against extreme UV radiation. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns globally, ongoing analysis of Chanthaburi’s climate will be crucial for sustainable development and environmental conservation efforts in this vibrant region.