Last updated: August 21, 2025
August in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia brings a warm and humid climate, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (82°F). Visitors can expect maximum daytime temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F), complemented by a minimum of 25°C (77°F) during the cooler nights. This intriguing month sees significant rainfall, accumulating to 221 mm (8.7 in) over approximately 18 wet days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. With humidity levels at a notable 88%, those exploring this tropical paradise should prepare for a steamy yet exhilarating experience amidst breathtaking scenery and cultural richness.
In August, Kota Kinabalu experiences a pleasantly warm climate, typical of its tropical setting. The minimum temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F), while average daily temperatures remain consistent at 28°C (82°F). As the month progresses, maximum temperatures can reach up to 32°C (90°F), mirroring the heat seen in July and September, which suggests a stretch of warm weather influences this coastal city. Overall, August reflects a seamless continuation of the warm trends established earlier in the summer, making it a vibrant time for outdoor activities and exploration in this bustling Malaysian gem.
In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, August marks a pivotal point in the city's tropical climate, with precipitation peaking at 221 mm (8.7 in) over the course of the month. The rain typically falls on 18 days, making it a notable time for greenery and rejuvenation, although it hints at the onset of the wetter season ahead. This level of rainfall aligns closely with the preceding months, particularly July, which recorded 167 mm (6.6 in), but remains slightly elevated, suggesting a transition into even more substantial rainfall in the upcoming months. September continues this trend, with 215 mm (8.5 in) predicted, indicating that while August is significant, the true deluge is just around the corner as the city braces for October, historically the wettest month with 308 mm (12.1 in) expected. Such patterns not only underscore the tropical character of the region but also emphasize the cyclical nature of its weather, making the late summer months both vibrant and potentially challenging for outdoor activities.
In August, Kota Kinabalu experiences a humidity level of 88%, marking a slight increase from the previous months. This uptick aligns with an overall trend of elevated humidity throughout the year, which peaks at 90% in January and September. As the dry season approaches, humidity begins to taper off slightly in the following months, with October and November showing more moderate levels at 86% and 87% respectively. While August may not be the most humid month, it contributes to the tropical climate's signature stickiness that defines life in this vibrant Malaysian city.
In August, Kota Kinabalu experiences a UV Index of 14, classifying it as extreme and maintaining a burn time of just 10 minutes. This month is part of a consistent trend throughout the year, where the UV Index remains alarmingly high, particularly from February to April, peaking at 16 in both March and April. The sun's intensity begins to slightly ease in the latter months, yet September and October still register a high index of 15 and 14, respectively. Given this pattern, it is crucial for residents and visitors to prioritize sun protection year-round, especially during the peak months. For more detailed insights, visit Kota Kinabalu UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
August in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, brings a delightful continuation of summer with an impressive 287 hours of sunshine, perfectly nestled between the lively warmth of July and the transition to cooler months in September. This month maintains the trend of consistent sunshine that characterizes the region, echoing the high luminosity of spring and early summer, which saw peak hours in March at 302 hours. As the year progresses, the sunshine hours gradually decline, yet August stands strong, ensuring that visitors can bask in the vibrant, tropical rays. With the month averaging favorable daylight hours, August is an ideal time to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of this stunning destination.
In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the likelihood of sunny weather in August hovers around 14%, which mirrors the relatively subdued chances seen in the preceding months of July and June. This suggests that while the dry season is approaching, August still faces significant competition from cloudy skies and possible rain. The trend reveals a gradual decline in sunshine starting from the peak of the year, with chances dipping to their lowest by September. If you're planning a visit, be prepared for a mix of weather, but rest assured that the tropical climate still offers its own enchanting allure, even under sporadic clouds.
In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, August enjoys a delightful daylight duration of 12 hours, maintaining a consistent trend established earlier in the year. From March through September, residents and visitors bask in this balance of light, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. As the year progresses, daylight hours fluctuate slightly, beginning with a shorter 11 hours in January and February, before gradually increasing. After reaching its peak in the vibrant summer months, daylight begins to taper off towards the end of the year, returning to 11 hours by October. This predictable rhythm of daylight not only enhances the tropical charm of Kota Kinabalu but also encourages a year-round connection with its stunning natural landscapes.
In August, Kota Kinabalu experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), consistent with the calmer conditions of the preceding months. Following a slower summer, where wind speeds dipped to about 1.9 m/s in both May and June, the wind picks up slightly in July, reaching 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This revitalizing shift hints at the transition towards the more dynamic weather patterns of the upcoming months. As the year progresses into September, the wind speed increases modestly to 2.2 m/s, suggesting a subtle resurgence in atmospheric activity. Overall, August provides a serene yet refreshing ambiance, setting the stage for the slightly stronger breezes of autumn, which are anticipated in the following months.
Weather in Kota Kinabalu varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares August’s weather to other months in Kota Kinabalu, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in August and January, both months exhibit relatively warm temperatures, with January having slightly cooler averages. In August, temperatures range from a minimum of 25°C to a maximum of 32°C, while January sees temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. Both months experience a high level of humidity, with August at 88% and January at 90%. Precipitation is also notable in both months, with August receiving 221 mm over 18 days and January slightly less at 195 mm, also over 18 days. For more detailed information, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in January.
Comparing the weather in August and February reveals some interesting similarities and differences. August tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F) and maximums of up to 32°C (90°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are a bit cooler, averaging 27°C (80°F) with maximums around 30°C (86°F). Additionally, August experiences significantly more rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days, compared to February’s 108 mm (4.2 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels remain relatively comparable, with August at 88% and February at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in February.
In comparing the weather between August and March, both months experience warm temperatures, with August slightly hotter, ranging from a minimum of 25°C to a maximum of 32°C, while March sees temperatures from 24°C to 30°C. August also has significantly higher precipitation, recording 221 mm over 18 days compared to March's 97 mm over 20 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with August at 88% and March at 87%. For more detailed information about the weather conditions in March, you can visit Kota Kinabalu weather in March.
When comparing the weather in August and April, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, sitting at around 28°C (82°F). However, August tends to feel more humid, with an average humidity of 88% compared to April's 82%. In terms of precipitation, August receives significantly more rainfall, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days, while April sees 109 mm (4.3 in) across 21 days. This makes April a slightly drier month overall, despite the similar temperature range. For specific details on April's climate, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in April.
In comparing the weather of August and May, both months feature similar temperature ranges, with August experiencing slightly higher maximum temperatures at 32°C (90°F) compared to May's peak of 31°C (89°F). However, May sees a slightly lower average temperature and humidity, with levels of 28°C (83°F) and 85% humidity, respectively. While August receives more precipitation overall at 221 mm (8.7 in) across 18 rainy days, May has its share of rain with 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days, indicating a slightly wetter month. For more detailed insights, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in May.
In comparing the weather between June and August, both months feature similar average temperatures, with a minimum of 24-25°C (76-77°F), an average of around 28°C (82-83°F), and a maximum that peaks at 32°C (90°F). August, however, experiences slightly less precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days compared to June's 229 mm (9.0 in) over 20 days. The humidity is also marginally higher in August at 88%, compared to June's 87%. For more details on June weather conditions, you can check out Kota Kinabalu weather in June.
In comparing the weather of August and July, both months experienced similar temperature ranges, with minimum temperatures consistently around 25°C (77°F) and average highs reaching up to 32°C (90°F) in August and 32°C (89°F) in July. However, August saw a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 rainy days, compared to July's 167 mm (6.6 in) across 20 days. Humidity levels were also slightly higher in August at 88%, while July maintained a humidity level of 86%. Overall, August was characterized by more rainfall and slightly higher humidity, making it feel more humid than July. For more details, check Kota Kinabalu weather in July.
August and September share similar temperature ranges in Kota Kinabalu, with minimums around 25°C (77°F), averages at 28°C (82°F), and maximums peaking at 32°C (90°F). However, while August experiences slightly higher precipitation at 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days, September sees a marginal decrease to 215 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days, indicating that rainfall may be more frequent but slightly less intense. Humidity levels also rise in September, reaching 90% compared to August's 88%. For more detailed information about September weather, you can visit Kota Kinabalu weather in September.
In comparing the weather between August and October, both months feature warm temperatures with minimal fluctuations. August typically sees a minimum temperature of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), while October mirrors this with a similar minimum but a slightly lower average of 27°C (81°F). However, October experiences slightly cooler maximum temperatures at 31°C (88°F) compared to August's peak of 32°C (90°F). Additionally, October is characterized by increased precipitation, receiving 308 mm (12.1 in) over 27 days, compared to August's 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days. Despite the similarity in humidity levels, with October marginally less humid at 86%, it’s clear that October is a wetter month. For a closer look at the specifics, you can check out the Kota Kinabalu weather in October.
In comparison, August and November both experience warm temperatures, with August having an average of 28°C (82°F) and November slightly cooler at 27°C (81°F). While August showcases a maximum temperature of 32°C (90°F), November's peak reaches 30°C (87°F). In terms of precipitation, November sees an increase, with 264 mm (10.4 in) over 27 days, compared to August's 221 mm (8.7 in) across 18 days. Additionally, both months are characterized by high humidity levels, with August at 88% and November slightly lower at 87%. For a detailed look at November weather in Kota Kinabalu, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in November.
In August, the weather features warm temperatures with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and averages around 28°C (82°F), reaching a maximum of 32°C (90°F). However, this month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, December offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Although the average temperature is lower, December experiences even more rainfall, with 272 mm (10.7 in) over 28 days and a humidity of 89%. This makes December a wetter month overall. For more details, you can refer to Kota Kinabalu weather in December.
In August, Kota Kinabalu experiences a warm and humid climate, characterized by an average temperature that hovers around a comfortable level, making it feel particularly tropical. While the city sees plenty of sunshine, the month also brings significant rainfall, with about 18 days of precipitation adding to the high humidity levels typical of this time. Compared to other months, August tends to be wetter, which can create a lush, vibrant landscape but also necessitates carrying an umbrella for those afternoon showers. For a deeper dive into the overall climate and what to expect year-round, check out Kota Kinabalu Climate.