Phuket Weather: General Information
Very often we are asked the question: “We are going to Phuket, what will the weather be like?”
To our great regret, it is impossible to predict the weather in the tropics. Even forecasters with a huge amount of expensive equipment make mistakes when making forecasts, and weather reports change almost every hour. Therefore, in this article we will only provide average statistical data on the weather in Phuket, and you will see a more accurate forecast from the window of your hotel or villa after the fact. The statistical data is taken from climate observations over several years, but we all know that global warming causes shifts in seasons and weather surprises are now not at all uncommon.
Climate of Phuket Island
Phuket has become an increasingly popular holiday destination for people from different countries in recent years. This island is called the pearl of Thailand. Tourists are attracted by beautiful beaches, clean warm water and the opportunity to relax all year round.
Phuket has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it is humid. There are usually two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season lasts in Phuket from about mid-May to mid-October. During this period, there is more rainfall than in the dry season. However, most often it rains in the evening or at night and they are local, which means that in one area there may be a thunderstorm, while in another they have not heard anything about it and are enjoying the scorching sun. There are also periods of monsoon rains, then precipitation can be around the clock and for several days. This happens quite rarely, but it is impossible to predict them in the long term. Perhaps the only predictable thing in this season is the waves on the west coast of the island. In the dry season, there is practically no rain on the island of Phuket, and if you are overtaken by a downpour in January, you will really be happy about it. In the dry season, there are no waves on all beaches or they are so small that they do not interfere with a beach holiday.
Regardless of the season, the average daytime air temperature is +27/+32 °C, at night it can be a little cooler +25/+30 °C. The highest daytime air temperature is from February to April, and the lowest usually occurs in the summer.
The rainiest month of the year is September, with about 400 mm of precipitation. In total, about 2200 mm of precipitation falls per year. But this does not mean that a holiday in September is impossible. In September 2023, nature pleased us with a large number of sunny days. And in October 2022, a flood occurred, despite the calendar start of the dry season.
The sea water temperature in the Phuket area is around 29°C throughout the year.
Which month is best for a holiday in Phuket?
Much depends on your preferences and expectations from the holiday. Most people prefer to visit the island during the dry season. During this period, the beach holiday is the best and all the islands and national parks are open to visitors, including the Similan and Surin Islands.
However, some people like to vacation during the rainy season, as there are fewer people and it is not so hot. We agree with both categories of vacationers - you can have a wonderful vacation in Phuket at any time of the year.
Is it possible to vacation in Phuket in summer?
Yes, of course you can. But with the right preparation and without strong hopes for stable weather. Sunny days at the beginning of summer are not at all uncommon. Therefore, do not forget to use sunscreen. And in cloudy weather it is possible to sunbathe and even get burned. In Phuket, the sun is very active all year round due to its proximity to the equator, ultraviolet and clouds do not interfere. Closer to autumn, cloudy days become more and more. Summer is the fruit season, so you will definitely be able to enjoy them at the lowest prices. Also, in summer there are much fewer tourists.
Waves come to the entire western coast of Phuket already at the end of May. It is necessary to be guided by the beach markings made by lifeguards.
- Red flag - swimming in this area is strictly prohibited. Even if you do not see big waves, swimming is life-threatening. These may be dangerous rip currents or jellyfish washed up on the shore. Lifeguards make sure that your vacation is safe and you should not ignore their warnings.
- Red and yellow flag (usually in pairs) - swimming is allowed in the area between these flags. Lifeguards are usually on duty in this area and keep an eye on vacationers.
There are also beaches in Phuket where there are no waves even in summer. Read about this in the article "Beaches without waves in Phuket".
Excursions in Phuket in winter and summer
Excursion programs are held all year round, but in summer there are fewer of them. Due to weather conditions, the Similan Islands National Park is closed, and it is also impossible to get to the Surin Islands. In case of storms, sea excursions are cancelled. Bus programs and entertainment on the island itself are available all year round.
For consultations and excursion bookings, simply contact us. Consultations for our company's clients are free. Payment for excursions is possible by bank transfer or in cash upon delivery of the ticket to the hotel.
