Last updated: January 18, 2025
Sukhothai, Thailand, experiences a distinct tropical savanna climate classified under the Koppen-Geiger system as Aw. Characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, the region sees a minimum of 11°C (53°F) in December and an average of 29°C (84°F). The pinnacle of heat is reached in April, when temperatures can soar to a maximum of 44°C (112°F), marking it as one of the hottest months of the year. This climate profile not only influences the local ecology but also shapes the lifestyle and agricultural practices of its inhabitants.
In Sukhothai, Thailand, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal variation, with distinct warm and cooler months shaping the climate. The year commences with mild conditions in January, where temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 37°C (100°F), gradually warming as February and March approach. April marks the peak of heat, showcasing an impressive maximum of 44°C (112°F), followed closely by May's slight decrease in temperature of 43°C (110°F). As the wet season begins in June, temperatures stabilize around 30°C (86°F), maintaining relatively consistent readings throughout July and August. The transition into the cooler months begins in September, leading to a gradual decline as October and November see temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 18°C (65°F) during the cooler nights. By December, temperatures drop to a minimum of 11°C (53°F), wrapping up the year with a refreshing chill before the cycle begins anew.
Sukhothai experiences a minimum temperature of 12°C (53°F) in December and reaches a peak of 44°C (111°F) in April, while Si Satchanalai records similar temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) in January and a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in April. For more detailed information, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Sukhothai and the monthly temperatures in Si Satchanalai.
Precipitation in Sukhothai, Thailand, showcases a pronounced seasonal pattern characterized by a marked increase during the monsoon months. The year begins with relatively dry conditions in January, receiving only 25 mm (1.0 in), and progresses further into February and March with even lesser amounts, reaching a mere 8 mm (0.3 in) by the latter month. However, a significant shift occurs in April, heralding the start of the rainy season, when rainfall spikes to 86 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 9 days of precipitation. As the season unfolds, May experiences a dramatic surge, accumulating 172 mm (6.8 in) as rain falls on 16 days.
The peak of the rainy season occurs in August, when Sukhothai receives 300 mm (11.8 in) of rainfall spread over 24 days, highlighting the region's vulnerability to heavy downpours during this time. Following August, September and October also contribute substantial rainfall, with 237 mm (9.3 in) and 168 mm (6.6 in), respectively. The rain gradually tapers off in November to 30 mm (1.2 in) before descending into a drier period in December with only 18 mm (0.7 in). This seasonal rhythm not only influences the local agricultural practices but also plays a crucial role in shaping the overall climate dynamics of Sukhothai.
In Sukhothai, Thailand, sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal trend marked by a steady rise in sunlight hours during the early months of the year. Starting with 251 hours in January, the amount of sunshine increases consistently, peaking in March with 332 hours of bright, sunny days. This trend continues through April and May, where the hours hover around the 320s, showcasing the favorable conditions that characterize the pre-monsoon season. These months, particularly March, highlight some of the sunniest times of the year, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural preparations.
As the monsoon season approaches in June, the trend shifts, with sunlight hours decreasing to 282 hours, continuing to decline through July and August, which record only 265 hours and 244 hours, respectively. This reduction correlates with increased cloud cover and precipitation during the wet months, creating a stark contrast to the previous sunny period. However, sunshine duration begins to rebound in September and October, returning to 272 hours and 282 hours, respectively. The year wraps up with a gradual increase in sunlight, with 302 hours in November and 313 hours in December, signaling a return to more favorable sunshine conditions as the dry season approaches. Overall, this seasonal fluctuation underscores the impact of monsoonal patterns on sunlight availability throughout the year in Sukhothai.
The UV Index in Sukhothai, Thailand, presents a significant annual variation, primarily influenced by the region's tropical climate. Starting the year, January experiences a UV Index of 10, categorized as "very high," indicating that individuals may be at risk for skin damage within 15 minutes of sun exposure. However, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation escalates rapidly as the months progress, reaching an extreme peak of 14 in May, July, August, and September. During these months, critical precautions are necessary, as a burn time of merely 10 minutes underscores the heightened risk of skin damage from prolonged sunlight exposure.
As the rainy season transitions into the drier months, the UV Index begins to decline, with October seeing a decrease to 13 before dropping further to 10 in November and 8 in December, marking the year's end. This seasonal shift in UV Index underscores the importance of sun protection throughout the year, particularly during the peak months when the indexes suggest extreme exposure levels. Overall, the data highlights not only the intensity of sunshine in Sukhothai but also the necessity for individuals to take appropriate sun safety measures to mitigate potential skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
In Sukhothai, Thailand, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, characterized by a consistent pattern that reflects the region's tropical geography. January and February both offer 11 hours of daylight, creating a gentle start to the year. As spring arrives in March, the daylight duration subtly increases to 12 hours and maintains this length through April and May, providing ample time for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits during the dry season.
With the onset of the monsoon in June, daylight extends further to 13 hours, which continues into July, the longest daylight span of the year. Following this peak, daylight begins to gradually decrease from 12 hours in August and September back to 11 hours by October, November, and December. This cyclical fluctuation in daylight hours highlights the relatively mild variation in sunlight throughout the seasons, emphasizing the tropical climate of Sukhothai where daylight duration remains a vital component of daily life.
Si Satchanalai, Thailand experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to August. The temperature ranges from a cool 12°C (53°F) in January to a scorching 43°C (109°F) in April. Rainfall peaks in August, with up to 325 mm (12.8 in) of precipitation, while the dry season from December to February sees minimal rain and abundant sunshine, especially in February with 296 hours. This climate pattern supports lush vegetation and a vibrant ecosystem in the region. For detailed insights, visit Si Satchanalai climate.
Sukhothai, Thailand experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, temperatures rise from a minimum of 14°C to a peak of 41°C in April, with significant sunshine hours peaking in March at 332 hours. The rainy season begins in May, with precipitation reaching its highest in August at 303 mm, while temperatures remain high. Despite the downpours, average temperatures generally range between 29°C to 32°C during this time. For more detailed information, visit Sukhothai climate.
In conclusion, Sukhothai, Thailand, showcases a dynamic interplay of climate factors that significantly influence its environmental and lifestyle patterns. From the extreme temperatures and substantial rainfall during the monsoon season to the notable UV index and stable daylight duration, these elements paint a comprehensive picture of the region's tropical savanna climate. The prolonged sunshine and high UV radiation highlight the importance of sun safety, while the predictable daylight hours support agricultural activities and community life. Understanding these climatic characteristics is essential for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate the diverse seasonal changes that define this vibrant and culturally rich area of Thailand.