January weather forecast
Kuching, Malaysia

January in Kuching, Malaysia, experiences a gradual transition from the previous year's moist and cold December. The month is frequently draped in clouds, contributing to the serenity exuded by the environment. With the sea temperature recorded at 28°C (82.4°F), outdoor activities in coastal areas become more attractive. The humid conditions, punctuated with rainfall averaging 175mm (6.89") over approximately 23 days, guarantees the lush greenery characteristic of this tropical paradise. It also prepares the stage for the relative lull in rainfall expected in the subsequent month.

Temperature

During January and February, Kuching registers its lowest temperatures, averaging a high of 29.3°C (84.7°F).

Heat index

The heat index in January is estimated at a sweltering 37°C (98.6°F). Take extra safety measures to prevent heat exhaustion and heat cramps. Heatstroke could follow lengthy activity.
Thinking about the heat index, one should account for its values in shaded areas with gentle breezes. Exposure to the sun directly might heighten the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'felt air temperature', evaluates the perceived heat by adding the effect of moisture in the air. Factors such as metabolic variations, being pregnant, and physical activity can impact an individual's weather perception. Take note that direct exposure to the sun can increase the felt temperature, possibly adding 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Young people are generally more susceptible than adults because they perspire less. Furthermore, their proportionally larger skin surface to their petite bodies and the increased heat output from their actions add to the risk.
Normally, the human body cools itself through perspiration, which removes excessive heat by evaporating sweat. Under conditions of increased relative humidity, the evaporation rate lessens, causing the body to retain more heat than under less humid conditions. When body heat isn't effectively managed, risks of dehydration and overheating amplify.

Humidity

The months with the highest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 87%.

Rainfall

January is the month with the most rainfall in Kuching. Rain falls for 22.8 days and accumulates 175mm (6.89") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

The months with the coldest seawater are January and February, with an average sea temperature of 28°C (82.4°F).
Note: Swimming, diving, and other water-related activities in temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are considered highly enjoyable and satisfying for longer durations without uneasiness.

Daylight

The average length of the day in January in Kuching is 12h and 2min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 6:40 am and sunset at 6:42 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 6:50 am and sunset at 6:53 pm +08.

Sunshine

January has the least sunshine of the year in Kuching, with an average of 6.2h of sunshine.

UV index

With an average maximum UV index of 6, January is the month with the lowest UV index in Kuching. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: A daily high UV index of 6 in January leads to these guidelines:
Use protective steps and abide by sun safety guidelines. Safeguarding against skin and eye harm is necessary. Seek shade and limit direct Sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak, but be aware that not all shade structures provide complete sun protection. Counter UV radiation's ill effects with clothing designed for sun safety and UV-resistant eyewear. Be careful! The Sun's UV radiation is accentuated by reflecting off sand and water.