Last updated: January 18, 2025
Ratchaburi, Thailand, is characterized by its Köppen-Geiger climate classification of type Aw, indicative of a tropical savanna environment. The region experiences a temperature range that highlights its distinct seasonal changes, with minimum temperatures dipping to 12°C (54°F) in January and soaring to a sweltering maximum of 41°C (105°F) in May. The average temperature throughout the year is a warm 28°C (82°F), making Ratchaburi a standout location for understanding the dynamics of tropical climates and their effects on local ecosystems and communities.
Ratchaburi, Thailand, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, beginning with the cool dry month of January, where minimums drop to 12°C (54°F) and average temperatures hover around 26°C (79°F). As February transitions in, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in April and May with maximums reaching 40°C (104°F) and 41°C (105°F), while average temperatures remain consistently warm at 29°C (85°F). The onset of the rainy season in June signals a slight cooling, with maximum temperatures decreasing to around 38°C (101°F), continuing through the summer months. By October, temperatures drop further, marking the return of cooler weather with monthly averages around 27°C (82°F) and minimums that linger in the low 20s°C (70s°F). The year concludes with December, where temperatures once again dip, reinforcing the notable seasonal fluctuations that define Ratchaburi's climate.
Suan Phueng experiences a temperature range from a chilly 12°C (54°F) in January to a sweltering 37°C (98°F) in April, making it one of the cooler areas in the region. In contrast, Damnoen Saduak sees its minimum temperature rise to 16°C (61°F) in December and peaks at a scorching 40°C (103°F) in May, while Ratchaburi shares a similar minimum of 16°C (61°F) in January but reaches an even higher maximum of 40°C (105°F) in May. For more details, you can explore the links: monthly temperatures in Suan Phueng, monthly temperatures in Damnoen Saduak, and monthly temperatures in Ratchaburi.
Ratchaburi, Thailand, experiences a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, with the annual cycle characterized by marked wet and dry periods. January and February are the driest months, receiving only 25 mm (1.0 in) and 15 mm (0.6 in) of rainfall, respectively, with just a couple of rainy days. As the dry season gives way to the pre-monsoon period in March, rainfall begins to increase to 35 mm (1.4 in), paving the way for a significant uptick in precipitation in April, where totals surge to 109 mm (4.3 in). This trend accelerates into the monsoon season from May to October, experiencing peak rainfall in September at 233 mm (9.2 in) and consistent rainfall ranging between 140 mm (5.5 in) to 226 mm (8.9 in) during the intervening months.
As the year progresses towards the dry season, rainfall diminishes dramatically. An analysis of rainy days reveals that the wettest months not only have the highest precipitation but also the most rainy days, with August averaging 25 days of rain, contributing significantly to the region's overall annual total. In contrast, November and December mark the decline in rain, with 86 mm (3.4 in) and 19 mm (0.7 in), respectively, hinting at the transition towards a drier climate. This seasonal distribution underscores the importance of water management in Ratchaburi, given its reliance on consistent monsoon rains for agriculture and freshwater supply.
Ratchaburi, Thailand, exhibits a distinct seasonal trend in sunshine duration, characterized by a steady increase in sunlight hours from the cooler winter months to the warmer summer period. Beginning in January with 251 hours of sunshine, the region enjoys increasing daylight, peaking in March at 334 hours. This upward trajectory is particularly notable as the dry month of February follows closely with 299 hours, indicating a transition into a more luminous season. Although April and May show slight declines to 319 hours and 317 hours, respectively, these months still provide ample sunshine, making them ideal for outdoor activities before the onset of the rainy season.
As the monsoon begins in June, sunshine hours decrease, with 299 hours recorded, reflecting the impact of increasing cloud cover and precipitation. This trend continues through the summer months, where July sees 280 hours and August drops further to 267 hours. September marks the lowest at 261 hours, coinciding with the peak of rainfall in the region. However, as the rainy season recedes into October, sunshine duration rebounds to 283 hours, and November follows closely with 293 hours. By December, sunshine returns robustly with 315 hours, rounding out the year on a brighter note. These fluctuations not only emphasize the tropical climate of Ratchaburi but also highlight the importance of sunshine duration for agricultural planning and tourism opportunities throughout the year.
Ratchaburi, Thailand, experiences a consistently high UV Index throughout the year, reflecting its geographical location and tropical climate. The UV Index peaks between January and October, with values ranging from 11 to 15, indicating an extreme exposure category. Notably, the highest UV Index of 15 is recorded in July, substantiating the necessity for sun protection during this peak summer month, when the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes. This extended period of elevated UV exposure not only emphasizes the importance of sunscreen use but also highlights the need for protective clothing and shade to safeguard against harmful solar radiation.
As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index drops slightly to 10, shifting to a very high exposure category with recommended burn times extending to 15 minutes. This reduction, while notable, still requires vigilance, as the risk of skin damage remains significant. The persistence of high UV levels year-round underscores the importance of public awareness regarding sun safety in Ratchaburi, particularly for outdoor activities and for individuals with sensitive skin. Understanding the UV Index can greatly aid residents and visitors alike in taking appropriate precautions against UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
In Ratchaburi, Thailand, daylight duration remains fairly consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical location near the equator. The year kicks off with 11 hours of daylight in January and February, providing a stable foundation for the first quarter. As spring arrives in March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that persists through the warmer months of April, May, June, July, August, and September. This steady 12-hour daylight duration during the peak of summer fosters an environment conducive to outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the year transitions into autumn and winter, daylight begins to taper off again, returning to 11 hours in October and carrying through to December. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the minimal variance in daylight across seasons, making Ratchaburi an ideal location for those who appreciate consistent light hours year-round. The stability in daylight duration supports various economic activities, ensuring that residents can make optimal use of natural light for both work and leisure, regardless of the season.
Damnoen Saduak experiences a tropical climate with distinct warm temperatures year-round. January and December are the coolest months, with average temperatures around 26-27°C (79-80°F) and minimums as low as 16°C (61°F). The hottest months, April and May, see maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). Rainfall peaks from May to October, with September being the wettest month at 221 mm (8.7 in). For more detailed information, visit the Damnoen Saduak climate.
Ratchaburi, Thailand experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. The warmest months are April and May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F), while January and December offer cooler temperatures, dropping to a minimum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation peaks between May and September, with August being the wettest month, receiving about 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain. Despite the rain, Ratchaburi enjoys substantial sunshine hours, especially in February and March, with over 299 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Ratchaburi climate.
Suan Phueng, Thailand experiences a tropical climate with distinct temperature variations throughout the year. January sees cool temperatures, ranging from 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 32°C (91°F), while April and May experience the highest heat, reaching up to 37°C (98°F). The region receives substantial rainfall from May to September, peaking in September with 287 mm (11.3 in) of precipitation. Despite the wet season, sunshine is plentiful, particularly in February and March, which boast up to 328 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Suan Phueng climate.
In conclusion, Ratchaburi, Thailand, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by high temperatures, substantial rainfall during the monsoon season, and a consistent pattern of sunshine and daylight duration throughout the year. With a pronounced UV Index that necessitates protective measures, the region's tropical climate underscores the importance of understanding environmental factors for both public health and safety. This stability in climate—including extremes in temperature, notable seasonal variations in precipitation, and reliable daylight hours—shapes the lifestyle, agricultural practices, and economic activities of the local population. Ultimately, Ratchaburi serves as a prime example of how climatic conditions can influence daily life and community resilience in a tropical setting.