About
Climate
Singapore has an equatorial climate characterised by little variation in temperature throughout the year, high humidity and plenty of rain. Average daily temperatures vary between highs of 31-32°C and lows of 23-24°C, although it can get as hot as 36°C and as cool as 19°C. The mean relative humidity is 84%, though during heavy rain it frequently sits at 100%. The average annual rainfall is 2,300mm. Due to a rain shadow effect, the eastern side of the island is much dryer and slightly hotter than the western side.
There are two monsoon seasons. The north-east monsoon, known as the wet season, lasts from December to early March. It brings squally conditions with winds up to 20km/h and frequent heavy showers occurring mostly in the afternoons – though at times they can last for days at a stretch. The south-west monsoon from June to September is milder, usually bringing scattered showers at midday. Maximum rainfall occurs in December and April while February and July are the driest months.
Due to the high temperatures, raincoats are seldom worn but everyone keeps an umbrella or two handy (they’re good for protecting you against the sun on hot, sunny days too). Many buildings provide plastic bags to sheath your wet umbrella on entering. Rainfall can be so heavy it severely limits visibility for motorists; driving with the headlights on is highly recommended.
There are two monsoon seasons. The north-east monsoon, known as the wet season, lasts from December to early March. It brings squally conditions with winds up to 20km/h and frequent heavy showers occurring mostly in the afternoons – though at times they can last for days at a stretch. The south-west monsoon from June to September is milder, usually bringing scattered showers at midday. Maximum rainfall occurs in December and April while February and July are the driest months.
Due to the high temperatures, raincoats are seldom worn but everyone keeps an umbrella or two handy (they’re good for protecting you against the sun on hot, sunny days too). Many buildings provide plastic bags to sheath your wet umbrella on entering. Rainfall can be so heavy it severely limits visibility for motorists; driving with the headlights on is highly recommended.
