Question 1

How much rain does Bangkok get during the rainy season?

Accepted Answer

Bangkok receives approximately 1,478mm (58.2 inches) of rainfall during the rainy season, which runs from May through October. This accounts for nearly 92% of the city's total annual precipitation of 1,609mm (63.4 inches), making the monsoon season the defining weather feature of Thailand's capital.

In 2024, May was the wettest month in Bangkok with 299.5mm (11.8 inches) of rainfall, closely followed by July at 293.0mm (11.5 inches). The rainy season months averaged 246mm (9.7 inches) of precipitation each, with consistent heavy rainfall throughout the period. September recorded 256.2mm (10.1 inches), while August saw 240.4mm (9.5 inches).

Humidity levels during Bangkok's rainy season averaged 80.9%, peaking at 83.7% in July. Despite the wet conditions, temperatures remained warm at an average of 28.4°C (83.1°F), making the air feel particularly muggy. By contrast, the dry season from November to April recorded only 131mm (5.2 inches) total.

For visitors planning travel to Bangkok, expect afternoon thunderstorms during the monsoon months, though mornings are often clear. The heavy rainfall means indoor attractions and covered markets become practical choices, and waterproof footwear is essential for navigating flooded streets during peak downpours.

Question 2

What was the hottest month in Bangkok in 2024?

Accepted Answer

April was the hottest month in Bangkok in 2024, with an average temperature of 31.7°C (89.1°F). This made April significantly warmer than the annual average of 28.5°C (83.3°F), sitting 3.2°C (5.7°F) above the yearly mean.

During April 2024, Bangkok experienced peak temperatures reaching 39.6°C (103.3°F), the highest recorded maximum of the entire year. Nighttime temperatures remained warm as well, with lows averaging 25.3°C (77.5°F). Despite the intense heat, humidity stayed moderate at 69.2%, making conditions somewhat more bearable than the wet season months.

May followed as the second hottest month with an average of 30.0°C (86.0°F) and maximum temperatures up to 39.1°C (102.4°F). This period from April to May represents Bangkok's hot season before the monsoon arrives.

For visitors planning travel to Bangkok, April's extreme heat means outdoor activities are best scheduled for early morning or evening hours. Air-conditioned spaces and staying hydrated become essential during this peak heat period. Those sensitive to high temperatures may prefer visiting during the cooler months of December or January, when average temperatures drop to around 27.1°C (80.8°F).

Question 3

What is the sunniest time of year in Bangkok?

Accepted Answer

Bangkok enjoys the most sunshine during the hot season from March to May, with April being the sunniest month in 2024 at 339.2 hours of sunshine.

During the hot season, Bangkok averaged 320.2 hours of sunshine per month, translating to approximately 10.4 hours of daily sunshine. April 2024 stood out with an impressive 11.3 hours of sunshine per day on average, coinciding with warm temperatures of 31.7°C (89.1°F). March and May followed closely with 306.9 and 314.6 hours respectively.

In contrast, the rainy season from June to October sees significantly less sunshine, averaging only 251.6 hours per month. July 2024 recorded the lowest sunshine at just 180.7 hours due to heavy monsoon cloud cover.

Bangkok's dry season from November to February also offers excellent sunshine conditions, averaging 296.7 hours per month with cooler, more comfortable temperatures. Throughout 2024, the city received a total of 3,405.2 hours of sunshine.

For visitors seeking the brightest weather in Bangkok, the March to May period offers the most sunshine hours, though be prepared for the hottest temperatures of the year. Those preferring a balance of sunshine and comfortable temperatures may find the dry season months of December through February more pleasant.

Question 4

What is the annual temperature range in Bangkok?

Accepted Answer

Bangkok experiences an annual temperature range of approximately 21.8°C (39.2°F), spanning from lows of 17.8°C (64.0°F) in December to highs of 39.6°C (103.3°F) in April based on 2024 weather data.

Despite being a tropical city, Bangkok shows notable temperature variation throughout the year. The annual average temperature sits at 28.5°C (83.3°F), but monthly averages range from 27.1°C (80.8°F) in January and December to 31.7°C (89.1°F) in April. This represents a 4.6°C (8.3°F) difference between the warmest and coolest months.

Bangkok's climate divides into distinct seasons that affect daily temperatures:

- **Hot season (March–May):** Average 30.4°C (86.7°F) with April reaching the year's peak temperatures
- **Cool season (November–February):** Average 27.6°C (81.8°F) with December recording the lowest minimums

Daily temperature swings in Bangkok average 13.1°C (23.7°F), meaning mornings and evenings can feel significantly cooler than midday. This is especially noticeable during the cool season when nighttime temperatures drop to around 18–20°C (64–68°F) while daytime highs still reach 34–36°C (93–97°F).

For visitors planning a trip to Bangkok, understanding this temperature range helps with packing. Light layers are useful year-round, particularly for air-conditioned spaces, while the hot season demands breathable fabrics and sun protection.

Question 5

What is the best time for outdoor activities in Bangkok?

Accepted Answer

The best time for outdoor activities in Bangkok is during the dry season from November to February, when rainfall is minimal and humidity is at its lowest. Based on 2024 weather data, these months offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring the city.

December stands out as the ideal month, with only 5.5mm of rainfall and the lowest humidity of the year at 60.4%. Average temperatures in December reached 27.1°C (80.8°F), with pleasant mornings around 17.8°C (64.0°F) and warm afternoons up to 35.0°C (95.0°F). The month also delivered 301 hours of sunshine, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor excursions.

January and February offer similarly favorable conditions, with precipitation of just 13.9mm and 7.0mm respectively. The dry season as a whole averaged 27.6°C (81.8°F) with humidity around 68%, significantly more comfortable than the rainy season average of 80.9% humidity.

In contrast, the monsoon season from May to October brings 1,478mm of rainfall—over 90% of Bangkok's annual total. July recorded 293mm of rain and 83.7% humidity in 2024, making outdoor activities more challenging.

For visitors planning outdoor activities in Bangkok, the November-February window provides the optimal combination of dry weather, moderate temperatures, and abundant sunshine hours.

Bang Khen

Bangkok

Wind

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FAQ

How much rain does Bangkok get during the rainy season?

What was the hottest month in Bangkok in 2024?

What is the sunniest time of year in Bangkok?

What is the annual temperature range in Bangkok?

What is the best time for outdoor activities in Bangkok?