The climate of Nan
Positioned within
Thailand's northern region, the city of
Nan subscribes to the Köppen climate classification of Aw, a designation reserved for regions experiencing a tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. This classification intimates an array of weather patterns distinctive to Nan, which is subjected to a diversity of climatic conditions interconnected with the varying times of the year.
The temperature range in Nan extends from as low as 14.2°C (57.6°F) in the coldest month to a scorching 37°C (98.6°F) in the heat of the year. Between the winter nadir, when minimum temperatures can stoop to 14.2°C (57.6°F) and the summer zenith, when maximum temperatures can rise to 37°C (98.6°F), the city's residents endure a sweeping swing in atmospheric temperatures.
Rainfall displays a similar degree of variability across the year with the quantity of precipitation subject to substantial monthly fluctuations. The quantity ranges from a mere 4mm (0.16") in the driest month to a deluge of 273mm (10.75") in the wettest month. Concurrently, the number of rainy days fluctuates annually from one day at the bare minimum to 22 days at the apex.
Relative humidity experiences an annual swing of between a low of 65% and a high of 84%, while daylight hours generally remain within the domain of from 11 to 13.3 hours. A discernible coherence exists between these two parameters, with higher amounts of sunlight often associated with lower levels of humidity.
The best time to visit Nan
A prospective visitor’s choice for the best time to visit
Nan relies heavily on individual preferences and weather-related tolerances. Those attracted to higher temperatures might prefer to tour the city from
March to
May when average high temperatures ascend between 35°C (95°F) and 37°C (98.6°F). Nevertheless, the allure of Nan’s sultry heat must be counterbalanced against the potential discomfort instigated by the high rainfall of up to 177mm (6.97") during this period.
The worst time to visit Nan
Conversely, the period encompassing
July to
September presents the most taxing climatic challenge to visitors. This span of time embodies the pinnacle of
Nan's rainy season, with precipitational quantities reaching up to 273mm (10.75"). Simultaneously, the city witnesses the most prolonged decrease in sunshine hours on record, dropping to an average of 5 hours daily.
Spring weather in Nan
The spring months—encompassing
March,
April, and
May—bestow upon
Nan a delightful combination of moderate warmth and abundant rainfall. High temperatures range from 35°C (95°F) to 37°C (98.6°F), while the accompanying rain provides a refreshing counterpoint to the escalating heat. It is crucial to remember, however, that this period also records the year's highest relative humidity at 76%, signifying a potentially humid and oppressive ambiance.
Summer weather in Nan
Summer in
Nan, extending from
June to
August, is characterized by a dramatic rise in rainfall. As temperatures range between a still-warm 32.4°C (90.3°F) and 33.5°C (92.3°F), the city is inundated with rainfall quantities soaring from 133MM to a climax of 273mm (10.75") in August. Coupled with a drop in sunshine hours to an annual low of 5 hours, this period constitutes the wettest and least sunny quarter of the year in Nan.
Autumn weather in Nan
Autumn, which sweeps through
Nan from
September to
November, witnesses a steady decrease in rainfall and a concomitant drop in temperatures. The autumnal months manifest a decrease in precipitation from 204mm (8.03") in September to a meager 18mm (0.71") by November. Accommodating this, average high temperatures also witness a decline, dropping from 32.5°C (90.5°F) in September to 31.2°C (88.2°F) by November.
Winter weather in Nan
Winter unfolds from
December to
February in
Nan, during which the city experiences the coolest and driest weather concurrent with a resurgence of sunlight. High temperatures hover between a chilly 29.6°C (85.3°F) in December and rise to 33.4°C (92.1°F) by February. Alongside this temperature trend, the city witnesses relatively low rainfall levels, spanning from 4mm (0.16") to 12mm (0.47") across the winter months. This cool and dry spell underscores the season's heightened allure to many visitors due to the comforting sunlight and the absence of sweltering heat.
Weather in January
January in
Nan,
Thailand offers a respite from the cooler winter months, with temperatures gradually beginning to climb. The weather remains predominantly dry at this time, making it a preferred period for outdoor pursuits. There's an increase in daylight with about 11.1 hours of sunlight.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February signals a transition period in
Nan's weather conditions as temperatures continue to climb. February days are slightly lengthier, allowing more time for outdoor activities in the warm, sunny weather. This month's climate augments the delight of the ongoing Spring Festival.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March marks a shift in the weather from the mild spring climate to the hot, dry conditions typical in
Thailand in the summer. Increasing daylight hours foster a lively atmosphere in downtown
Nan. People buckling up for the hot summer days further make the most of these dazzling sunny intervals.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April showcases the onset of sweltering summer in
Nan. Bright, sunny days dominate the month, with many people seeking respite in the cool, rolling hills outside the city. With increased daylight, the scorching heat can sometimes seem relentless.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Nan sees a notable shift as the first true signs of the rainy season begin to emerge. Clouds drape the sky more frequently, a welcome relief from the unyielding
April sun. The city's atmosphere takes on a distinct smell of earth, indicative of the incoming rains.
Weather in May » Weather in June
The month of
June is characterized by heavy rainfall that drives away the summer heat in
Nan. Thunderstorms become a frequent feature, adding a sense of drama to the lush landscapes. Surrounding verdant hills take on a glossy sheen, the vibrancy of their foliage intensified.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Continuing the trend from
June,
July in
Nan is characterized by amongst the year's highest rainfall and frequent thunderstorms. On clearer days, the skies highly contrast the bustling street markets below. With this constant precipitation, the city's numerous water bodies brim to their fullest.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August in
Nan continues to experience monsoon rain showers, but a slight decrease in temperature offers a reprieve. The greenery is at its peak, and the scenery is breathtaking with waterfalls cascading down the hillsides. Flooded paddies paint a serene, watercolored landscape enhanced by the relentless rain.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
September rolls in, the weather begins to transition once again in
Nan. The first cues of autumn are subtle, seen in the less crowded streets and cooler evenings. The city morphs sunset after sunset, leaving behind the lush monsoon months.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is the time to embrace autumn's arrival in
Nan, evident in the change in the locals' attire. While October stands at the threshold of the monsoon's end and winter's beginning, the populace eagerly anticipates the season's first chill.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November kicks off the winter season in
Nan, characterized by cooler temperatures and dry conditions. The abundance of foggy mornings and crisp evenings render this month a favorite among locals and tourists alike. As the city trees change hues, a sense of anticipation hangs in the air.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December is the peak of winter in
Nan, with cool weather creating a welcome contrast to the warmth of the holiday festivities. The awareness of winter's peak, combined with the anticipation of the year-end festivities, brings about a unique experience.
Weather in December »