The weather in Bangkok is relentlessly hot. Daytime temperatures hover above 86°F (30°C) throughout the year. The hot, humid monsoon sweeps through from May to October, and the November to February period heralds drier, slightly cooler conditions that make this the prime time for expats to explore. March through May bring the city’s most punishing heat, with April temperatures reaching as high as 99°F (37°C) amid stifling humidity.

During the wet season, downpours hit in intense afternoon downpours rather than drizzling all day. When a cloud bursts, you’ll want a sturdy umbrella. Bangkok’s drainage is designed to handle up to 3.15 inches (80mm) in three hours, but flooding is a real challenge. The low-lying districts outside the main flood barriers – Bang Phlat, Bangkok Noi, and riverside zones – are especially vulnerable to flooding when the heavy rain meets high tide. Check official warnings during monsoon months and steer clear of vulnerable areas when the alerts go out.

Air quality depends heavily on the seasons. The haze season from December to February is accompanied by PM2.5 pollution that can spike Bangkok into the rankings of the world’s most polluted cities. The stagnant non-monsoon weather means that smoke from agricultural burning in nearby provinces, combined with Bangkok’s vehicle emissions, has nowhere to go. Expats with respiratory conditions should monitor daily air quality and consider running home air purifiers when pollution levels are high.

 

What do expats say about the climate in Bangkok?

"I enjoyed the weather. It was hot, but I loved it."

Learn more in our expat interview about living in Bangkok with American expat Mariposa.

"Beyond friends and family, I miss autumn the most. You don’t get the cold cheeks, crunching leaves, and hot chocolate here. There are certainly negatives to Bangkok. The heat can get oppressive and inescapable during summer."

Read our expat interview on living in Bangkok with Canadian expat Greg to learn more about his experience. 

Further reading

►For information on how to navigate the city, have a look at our Getting Around in Bangkok page

Are you an expat living in Bangkok?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Bangkok. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.