Climate and weather in Thailand

A Thai beach before the rain

Thailand has tropical climate ruled by monsoons with high  levels of humidity that are accompanied with high temperatures throughout the year. The hottest months are April and May when even locals complain about the unbearable heat. June marks the beginning of the rainy monsoon season (at least according to the agricultural calendar) that lasts till late October. From November to February, temperatures are somewhat lower, as well as humidity levels, so it becomes 'easier to breathe'. This period is also the main tourist season in Thailand, since it is the best time to visit the country weather-wise.

The monsoon activity causes three seasons in Northern, Northeastern, Eastern and Central Thailand. Weather conditions in these parts of the country are more 'normal' and are favored by both the locals and the tourists. Temperatures are 3°C to 5°C lower than in the rest of the country. The weather conditions in this area depend upon the south-west monsoon starting between May and July and ending in November. Dry period that follows lasts until late April. During that dry period, somewhat lower temperatures and humidity levels are experienced until late February. Central Thailand experiences rains during August and September. Floods can occur in October due to the saturation of the ground at its fullest. Bangkok shares the tropical climate with the rest of the country. Temperatures during daytime usually go much higher than 30°C. During the wet season, short showers are a normal occurrence in the afternoon, although it can rain all day. In Southern Thailand, there are two seasons, a wet one and a dry one, with no significant temperature oscillations between them. This part of the country suffers longer and heavier rainfalls caused by the north-east monsoon period from November to January together with the south-west monsoon. Generally, the farther south you go, the dry season is shorter. For example, in Chiang Mai, dry season lasts for six months, but below Surat only two months.

The overall humidity in Thailand (except for the mountains in the north and the Khorat Plateau) ranges between 66% and 82%, depending on the season. The annual rainfall can reach 400cm in the peninsula. Temperatures often rise well above 35°C, however, they can drop below 10°C during the night. An everyday tourist visiting Thailand does not sense the slight differences in the country's temperature or humidity, so do not bring too much clothes and do bear in mind the tropical sun and use a sun lotion and wear a hat. However, if you decide to visit Thailand during the cool season, take some long sleeved pullovers with you