Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Manatuto, Timor-Leste, is categorized under the Köppen-Geiger climate classification as Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate. Characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, Manatuto experiences a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in September, an average of 26°C (79°F), and peaks at a sweltering 35°C (96°F) in November. This climate profile reveals a region where warm weather predominates, shaping the local ecology and influencing agricultural practices.
In Manatuto, Timor-Leste, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal fluctuation throughout the year. The warmest months are October and November, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F - 96°F), while January and December see slightly cooler maxima around 31°C (87°F - 94°F), complemented by higher minimums of 24°C (75°F). The transition into the cooler months from May to August is marked by a gradual decrease in minimum temperatures to around 19°C (66°F), accompanied by stable average temperatures near 25-26°C (77-79°F). Notably, September experiences a slight uptick in maximum temperatures, peaking at 33°C (91°F), before the cooler months set in. Overall, the region maintains a warm tropical climate, with subtle variations that reflect the onset of seasonal shifts.
In Manatutu, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in September to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in November, highlighting the region's warm climate during this period. For more detailed information, refer to the monthly temperatures in Manatutu here.
Precipitation patterns in Manatuto, Timor-Leste, are characterized by significant variability throughout the year, dominated by a pronounced wet season from January to March. January and February receive 208 mm (8.2 in) and 235 mm (9.3 in) respectively, but it is March that sees the highest rainfall, accumulating 314 mm (12.4 in) across 28 days. Following this peak, precipitation sharply declines in April, which experiences 127 mm (5.0 in) of rain, and continues to decrease significantly through the dry months of June and July, recording just 19 mm (0.8 in) and 11 mm (0.4 in), respectively.
As the dry season progresses, precipitation becomes sporadic, with May registering only 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain over 8 days and August virtually dry at just 2 mm (0.1 in). The transition back into the wetter months starts in October, with 32 mm (1.3 in) of rainfall, increasing again in November with 138 mm (5.4 in), followed by 240 mm (9.4 in) in December, returning to significant precipitation levels. This seasonal shift highlights the stark contrast between the wet and dry periods, crucial for agriculture and water resource management in the region.
In Manatuto, Timor-Leste, sunshine duration showcases a clear upward trend as the year progresses, with the most radiant months occurring during the late spring and summer. Starting from January with 222 hours of sunshine, the region experiences a gradual increase, reaching 291 hours by April. This upward trajectory continues into May, where the hours peak at 301, and June carries forward this trend. However, it is during the heart of summer that Manatuto truly basks in sunlight, with July and August recording 305 and 315 hours respectively, making them the sunniest months of the year.
As the year transitions from summer to fall, sunshine hours remain impressively high, with September and October witnessing 313 and 329 hours. October stands out as the pinnacle of sunshine, offering more than 329 hours of bright days. Although the sun gradually retreats in November and December, maintaining a robust 308 and 292 hours respectively, it is evident that the region thrives under a generous sun for the majority of the year. This abundance of sunshine not only supports agricultural practices but also enhances the unique landscapes of Manatuto, making it a vibrant destination throughout the seasons.
The UV Index in Manatuto, Timor-Leste, consistently indicates extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, posing a significant risk for outdoor activities. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 15, the region experiences its highest readings in February and March, both reaching 16, emphasizing the need for robust sun protection measures during these months. Even as the calendar shifts toward the warmer months, the UV Index remains perilously high, with values observing a slight decline to 14 in April and 12 in May, yet still classified under the extreme exposure category with a burn time of only 10 minutes.
As the year progresses, the UV Index reflects a seasonal pattern wherein summer months like July through October maintain extremely high levels. Notably, September and October mirror the peak readings of 16, further highlighting the importance of protective measures against harmful UV rays during these sunny periods. Even later in the year, November and December still uphold a high UV Index of 15 and 14, respectively, ensuring that vigilance against sun exposure remains crucial year-round. This persistent threat underscores the necessity for sun safety awareness in Manatuto, particularly for residents and visitors alike.
UV Risk Categories
In Manatuto, Timor-Leste, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with most months providing approximately 12 hours of sunlight each day. From January through March, the consistent 12 hours of daylight fosters a bright and inviting environment, ideal for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits. This uniformity reflects the region's equatorial positioning, which leads to minimal variation in day length across the calendar.
As the year progresses into April through August, daylight reduces slightly to about 11 hours per day. This decrease is marginal but noticeable compared to the earlier months. However, starting in September, daylight duration returns to 12 hours, lasting through November, before consistently maintaining this average into December as well. Such a predictable daylight pattern not only enriches the daily lives of Manatuto's inhabitants but also supports various ecological processes, highlighting the region's favorable climate for both residents and the natural environment.
Manatutu, Timor-Leste, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in September to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in October, with little variation throughout the year. The rainy season predominantly occurs from January to March, with March receiving the highest rainfall at 314 mm (12.4 in). Conversely, the dry months from June to August see significantly lower precipitation, dropping to just 2 mm (0.1 in) in August. For more detailed information, visit Manatutu climate.
In conclusion, Manatuto, Timor-Leste, is characterized by a dynamic climate that encompasses significant temperature variations, abundant sunshine, extreme UV exposure, and a stable daylight duration. The regional weather patterns demonstrate a tropical savanna climate with warm temperatures year-round, punctuated by pronounced wet and dry seasons that greatly influence its ecology and agriculture. The high levels of sunshine and consistently extreme UV Index underscore the importance of sun protection and awareness, while the stable daylight duration promotes a vibrant lifestyle. Together, these climatic features not only enhance the natural beauty of Manatuto but also shape the daily experiences and activities of its residents, making it a remarkable region within the tropical landscape.