January Weather in Sandakan, Malaysia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Sandakan, Malaysia is characterized by warm temperatures, with maximums reaching 34°C (94°F) and averaging around 27°C (80°F). The month sees a comfortable minimum temperature of 22°C (71°F), making it an ideal time for visitors who enjoy tropical climates. However, this warmth is accompanied by significant precipitation, totaling 318 mm (12.5 in) over approximately 25 days, contributing to the high humidity levels of 87%. Those venturing to Sandakan in January should prepare for a mix of sunshine and frequent showers, encapsulating the vibrant essence of this coastal city.

January Temperature in Sandakan

In January, Sandakan, Malaysia, greets the year with warm weather, featuring a minimum temperature of 22°C (71°F), an average of 27°C (80°F), and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). This month sets the stage for the year’s climatic rhythm, maintaining a steady pattern of warmth that persists throughout the following months. Notably, temperatures consistently hover around the mid-20s, with maximums peaking at 34°C (93°F) in February before rising slightly to 35°C (96°F) by March. The trend continues upward into April and May, where maximum temperatures reach a steamy 37°C (99°F), making it the hottest period of the year. Even as the year progresses into the later months, the warm climate remains constant, with averages circling around 27°C (81°F) to 28°C (82°F), ensuring Sandakan’s tropical allure captivates residents and visitors alike.

January Weather in Sandakan: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Sandakan, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Sandakan, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec808081828282818281818181
Data source: Temperature data for Sandakan generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Sandakan

In January, Sandakan, Malaysia, experiences a notable high in precipitation, with 318 mm (12.5 in) of rain falling over 25 days. This sets the stage for a wet transition into the new year, as January's downpours provide a stark contrast to February, where rainfall drops significantly to 194 mm (7.7 in). The trend continues in March and April, with moisture levels slightly increasing to 203 mm (8.0 in) and 182 mm (7.2 in) respectively, yet remaining lower than January. As the months progress towards mid-year, precipitation rises again, peaking in November at 347 mm (13.6 in) and maintaining a similar pattern in December. Overall, the rainfall data highlights January as one of Sandakan's wettest months, kickstarting a generally humid year where moisture levels fluctuate, but consistently keep the lush greenery of this coastal region thriving.

January Precipitation Trends in Sandakan

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sandakan, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Sandakan, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec318194204182268290246264272278347328
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Sandakan

January in Sandakan, Malaysia, welcomes the year with consistently high humidity, averaging 87%, a trend that extends into February. As the months progress, there’s a slight dip, with March witnessing a drop to 86%, and April seeing a more significant decline to 80%. This pattern continues through May and June, where humidity levels hover around the low 80s, before experiencing a gradual increase again in the latter half of the year. By September, humidity rises to 84%, remaining stable around the 81-84% range until the end of the year. Overall, while January sets a humid stage, the subsequent months offer a blend of both peaks and valleys in humidity, reflecting the area's tropical climate.

January Average Humidity in Sandakan

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Sandakan, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Sandakan is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%87%86%80%79%80%81%82%85%81%81%84%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Sandakan

In January, Sandakan, Malaysia, experiences an impressive UV Index of 14, placing it firmly in the extreme exposure category. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, residents and visitors alike should take precautions when outdoors. This intense UV radiation trend is consistent throughout the early months of the year, with February and March peaking even higher at 15 and 16, respectively. As the months progress, the UV Index remains high, although it slightly dips in June and July before regaining strength in August and September. The consistent exposure levels throughout the year highlight the need for vigilance against UV radiation. For detailed information and daily updates, check the Sandakan UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sandakan for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sandakan in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Sandakan typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141516161413131415141312
Data source: Sandakan January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Sandakan

In January, Sandakan, Malaysia, greets visitors with 221 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a bright year ahead. As the months roll on, this golden glow intensifies, peaking at an impressive 305 hours in May and June, creating a sun-soaked paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The warmth continues through the summer, with consistent sunny days in July and August, before gradually tapering to 281 hours in September. By the end of the year, the sunshine remains generous, with November and December delivering 277 and 273 hours, respectively. This trend of increasing sunshine hours fosters an inviting atmosphere, making Sandakan a delightful destination year-round for those seeking a tropical escape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sandakan: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sandakan experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec221h268h303h297h305h294h302h301h281h280h277h273h
Data source: Sandakan January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sandakan During January

In January, the likelihood of sunny weather in Sandakan, Malaysia is quite low, with only a 9% chance of sunshine. This marks the beginning of the year with some of the least favorable weather conditions, as the region transitions from the wetter months of the previous year. Interestingly, the sun begins to make more frequent appearances in February, rising to a 22% likelihood, followed by March and April, where the chances hover around 19% and 20%, respectively. However, as the year progresses, the probability of sunny days fluctuates, dipping again in mid-year with a 13% chance in May. Ultimately, while January may not provide the brightest outlook, the months that follow bring increased chances of sunshine, suggesting a promising shift as the dry season approaches.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Sandakan

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sandakan throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Sandakan experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9%22%19%20%13%18%15%16%10%10%12%5%
Data source: Sandakan January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sandakan in January

In January, Sandakan experiences 11 hours of daylight, setting a consistent tone that continues into February. As the year progresses into March, daylight increases to 12 hours, a duration that remains steady through to September, allowing for long, sunlit days during the tropical months. The gradual transition back to 11 hours occurs in October, maintaining this shorter daylight pattern through to December. This rhythm of daylight duration not only enhances the tropical ambiance but also creates an inviting backdrop for outdoor activities year-round in this vibrant Malaysian locale.

Average Daylight Hours in Sandakan for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sandakan throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 48m11h 55m12h 4m12h 14m12h 22m12h 26m12h 24m12h 17m12h 7m11h 58m11h 50m11h 46m
Data source: Sandakan daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Sandakan

In January, Sandakan, Malaysia greets visitors with a gentle breeze, as the average wind speed hovers around 1.6 m/s (4 mph). This moderate start to the year is complemented by an uptick in February, where the winds pick up slightly to 2.3 m/s (5 mph), bringing a refreshing feel to the warm tropical climate. March sees a mild decline back to 1.7 m/s, followed by a gradual easing into the quieter winds of April and May, which see speeds drop to 1.5 m/s (3 mph) and 1.3 m/s (3 mph) respectively. As the months progress into mid-year, wind speeds stabilize, fluctuating between 1.4 m/s and 1.6 m/s from June through November, showcasing a consistent yet calming breeze that characterizes the region. December concludes the year with a slight increase again to 1.8 m/s (4 mph), hinting at the seasonal shifts to come. Overall, January's gentle winds set a tranquil tone, gradually shifting to a more dynamic experience as the year unfolds.

Average January Wind Speed in Sandakan

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sandakan, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.6 m/s2.31.71.51.31.51.61.51.41.41.41.8
Data source: Sandakan January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Sandakan Compares to Other Months

Weather in Sandakan varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Sandakan, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In January, the weather is characterized by warm temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (71°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), with an average of 27°C (80°F). However, it also sees significant rainfall, with 318 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation across 25 days, maintaining a high humidity level of 87%. In comparison, February offers a similar temperature range, with minimums still at 22°C (72°F) and maximums at 34°C (93°F), but it experiences notably less precipitation at 194 mm (7.7 in) over 23 days. The humidity remains consistent at 87%, indicating that while temperatures stay stable, February tends to be slightly drier than January. For more details on February weather, visit Sandakan weather in February.

In January, the weather experiences warmer temperatures with a minimum of 22°C (71°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (94°F), while March offers slightly cooler nights with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and a higher maximum of 35°C (96°F). Both months share an average temperature of around 27°C (81°F), but January is significantly wetter, receiving 318 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation over 25 days compared to March's 203 mm (8.0 in) across 26 days. The humidity remains high in both months, hovering around 87% in January and slightly lower at 86% in March. For more detailed information, you can check out Sandakan weather in March.

In January, the weather is characterized by warmer average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 22°C (71°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), coupled with high humidity at 87%. This month also experiences substantial precipitation, with 318 mm (12.5 in) spread over 25 days, making it one of the wetter months. In contrast, April sees a slight increase in average temperature, peaking at 37°C (99°F), while still maintaining a minimum of 22°C (71°F). Although the overall precipitation decreases to 182 mm (7.2 in) over 23 days, the humidity also drops to 80%, creating a slightly less muggy atmosphere. For more insights on the weather during this time, you can check Sandakan weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by warmer temperatures, with averages around 27°C (80°F) and maximums reaching 34°C (94°F), combined with high humidity at 87%. The month experiences significant rainfall with 318 mm (12.5 in) over 25 days, making it a particularly wet time of year. In contrast, May brings slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 23°C (73°F) and average highs peaking at 37°C (98°F). Although May has less total precipitation at 268 mm (10.6 in), it still sees rain on 28 days and lower humidity levels at 79%. This makes May feel hotter and more humid despite the reduced rainfall. For more detailed insights, you can visit Sandakan weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by a warm climate with minimum temperatures around 22°C (71°F) and average highs reaching 34°C (94°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, with 318 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation over 25 days and a high humidity level at 87%. In contrast, June offers slightly higher minimum temperatures of 23°C (73°F) and average highs of 35°C (96°F), but with a bit less rainfall at 290 mm (11.4 in) over 28 days. The humidity in June is lower at 80%, making it feel less oppressive despite the warm temperatures. For more details on weather specifics, you can visit Sandakan weather in June.

In January, the weather is characterized by warmer temperatures, with minimums around 22°C (71°F) and maximums reaching up to 34°C (94°F). The month sees higher precipitation levels, averaging 318 mm (12.5 in) over 25 days, and a high humidity of 87%. In contrast, July offers slightly warmer maximum temperatures, peaking at 35°C (96°F), while the overall average remains the same at 27°C (82°F). Precipitation is reduced to 246 mm (9.7 in) across 26 days, and humidity is somewhat lower at 81%. For more details, check out Sandakan weather in July.

January and August in Sandakan exhibit distinct weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (71°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), with an average of 27°C (80°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 87% and significant rainfall, totaling 318 mm (12.5 in) across 25 days. In contrast, August sees slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from 22°C (73°F) to 35°C (96°F), and an average of 28°C (82°F). Although August is also humid at 82%, it experiences less precipitation, totaling 264 mm (10.4 in) over 27 days. For more details on the weather in August, check out Sandakan weather in August.

In January, the weather in Sandakan features a warm climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (71°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), while the average temperature hovers around 27°C (80°F). During this month, the region experiences significant rainfall, with 318 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation over 25 days and a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, September sees slightly higher maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) and a similar average of 27°C (82°F), while the minimum remains at 22°C (72°F). Precipitation decreases to 272 mm (10.7 in) spread over 27 days, with humidity slightly lower at 84%. For more information on weather conditions, visit Sandakan weather in September.

In January, the weather is characterized by a minimum temperature of 22°C (71°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F), peaking at a maximum of 34°C (94°F). This month sees significant rainfall, with 318 mm (12.5 in) spread across 25 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, October offers a slightly warmer minimum temperature of 23°C (73°F) and a similar average of 27°C (82°F), while the maximum reaches 35°C (95°F). Although October experiences a slightly lower total precipitation of 278 mm (10.9 in) over 28 days, the humidity is less intense, at 81%. For more detailed insights into October's weather, you can check Sandakan weather in October.

In January, the weather is characterized by slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 27°C (80°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 318 mm (12.5 in) across 25 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, November boasts a similar average temperature of 27°C (81°F) but slightly higher maximums at 35°C (96°F). This month also sees increased precipitation at 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, with a lower humidity level of 81%. Overall, while both months share warm temperatures, November tends to be wetter than January. For more detailed information, refer to Sandakan weather in November.

In December, the weather in Sandakan features a slightly higher minimum temperature of 23°C (73°F) compared to January's 22°C (71°F), while the average temperature remains the same at 27°C (81°F). However, the maximum temperature in December reaches up to 35°C (96°F) compared to January's 34°C (94°F). Both months experience significant rainfall, with December receiving 328 mm (12.9 in) over 29 days, slightly more than January's 318 mm (12.5 in) over 25 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 84% and January slightly higher at 87%. For more details about December's weather, check Sandakan weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Sandakan

January in Sandakan boasts warm temperatures that create a cozy atmosphere, with averages around 27°C (80°F), making it distinctly warmer than the cooler months preceding it. However, this warmth comes with an increased likelihood of rainfall, as January experiences significant precipitation over a substantial number of days—much more than what is typically seen in the drier months. The high humidity level at 87% adds to the tropical feel, offering a contrast to the drier months that follow. For those planning a visit, it’s essential to be prepared for the lush, vibrant landscapes that the rainfall nurtures. For a detailed understanding of the overall climate patterns, check out Sandakan Climate.