In
March, the mercury in the thermometers make a noticeable shift upwards in
Phnom Penh. An increase in the monthly average rainfall to 58mm (2.28") makes it evident that the city is gradually moving towards the wetter months of the year. With the UV index sitting at a firm 12, exerting caution while stepping out in the sun is advisable. The humidity level holds steady at 71% providing a palpable tropical experience. Despite the increase in precipitation, it is generally a manageable occurrence, permitting an unrestricted exploration of Phnom Penh's treasures.
Temperature
During March and
April, Phnom Penh experiences its highest average temperatures, peaking at 34.9°C (94.8°F).
Heat index
In March, the heat index is evaluated at a life-threatening hot 51°C (123.8°F).
Mind: Heat cramps along with heat exhaustion are anticipated. Heatstroke can develop with continued physical activity.
Realize that the values for the heat index are set for shaded places and light winds. When exposed to the direct sun, the heat index may augment by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the human-perceived temperature equivalent. The influence of weather is personal, differing among individuals based on variations in body mass, stature, and the degree of physical exertion. Taking into account that direct sunlight can boost the heat effect, the heat index may rise by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for children. Young children are generally more endangered than adults, as they usually less sweat. And also, due to larger skin surface relative to their small bodies and higher heat production as a result of their activity.
Sweat evaporation, driven by perspiration, is the method the human body uses to rid itself of excessive warmth. Excessive relative humidity disturbs the body's typical cooling process by reducing evaporation, leading to a decrease in body cooling rate and an increase in the sensation of warmth. Elevated heat gain compared to the body's release capability poses risks of dehydration and potential overheating.
Humidity
February and March, with an average relative humidity of 71%, are the least humid months in Phnom Penh.
Rainfall
In Phnom Penh, in March, it is raining for 5.2 days, with typically 58mm (2.28") of accumulated precipitation. Throughout the year, there are 153.4 rainfall days, and 1636mm (64.41") of precipitation is accumulated.
Daylight
The average length of the day in March is 12h and 4min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:15 and sunset at 18:10. On the last day of March, in Phnom Penh,
Cambodia, sunrise is at 05:57 and sunset at 18:11 +07.
Sunshine
The month with the most sunshine in Phnom Penh is March, with an average of 8.6h of sunshine.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, are February through
October, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an excessive health risk from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: A maximum high UV index of 12 in March translates into the following recommendations:
Implement every essential safety step. Individuals with fair skin might receive burns in less than 5 minutes. The Sun's UV radiation is most powerful between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To the extent possible, limit exposure to the direct sun during these hours. By wearing a generously brimmed hat, you can cut UV radiation exposure significantly. Applying and reapplying liberally a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ every two hours, and straight after a swim or outdoor activity is recommended.