Jakarta Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Indonesia

Climate of Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is situated on the northwestern coast of Java and experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which runs from April to October, is characterized by hot and dry weather with relatively low humidity. Temperatures typically range from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius (77 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit).

Average Weather Year Round in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta’s average temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year, with only slight variations between the dry and rainy seasons. The average temperature in Jakarta ranges from 26 to 28 degrees Celsius (79 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). The hottest months are typically April and October, when temperatures can reach up to 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit). The coolest months are typically January and February, when temperatures can drop to around 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit).

Rainfall in Jakarta is abundant, with an average annual precipitation of around 1,800 millimeters (71 inches). The rainy season, which runs from November to March, is characterized by heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and occasional flooding. The heaviest rainfall typically occurs in December and January, with an average monthly rainfall of over 300 millimeters (12 inches). The driest month is typically July, with an average rainfall of around 60 millimeters (2 inches).

Average Temperature throughout the Year

Jakarta, Indonesia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm and humid temperatures year-round. On average, the city enjoys a mean temperature ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 31°C (88°F). The warmest months typically occur during the dry season, from June to September, when temperatures can soar up to 33°C (91°F) or even higher. However, the humidity levels remain constantly high throughout the year, averaging around 80%.

Seasonal Variations

Jakarta’s climate is influenced by the monsoon season, resulting in distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season extends from October to May, bringing ample precipitation to the city. During this period, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler, with an average of 27°C (81°F). The dry season, on the other hand, runs from June to September, which is when temperatures rise and humidity levels decrease. However, even during the dry season, occasional showers are not uncommon.

Types of Clouds in Jakarta

Jakarta’s tropical climate gives rise to a variety of cloud formations. Cumulus clouds, puffy white clouds resembling cotton balls, are common during the dry season. During the wet season, these clouds often grow into larger, towering cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce thunderstorms. Cirrus clouds, thin and wispy, are composed of ice crystals and can indicate fair weather. Stratus clouds, a gray blanket-like layer, often produce drizzle or light rain.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Cloud cover significantly impacts Jakarta’s weather patterns. During the dry season, skies are typically clear, with cloud cover less than 30%. This allows sunlight to reach the ground, resulting in warm and sunny conditions. In contrast, during the wet season, cloud cover increases to over 60%, blocking sunlight and reducing temperatures. The increased cloud cover also leads to heavier rainfall, with an average of over 200 millimeters per month.

Monthly Precipitation Patterns

Jakarta, Indonesia experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically spans from October to April, bringing heavy rainfall to the city. During these months, average monthly precipitation ranges from 200 to 350 millimeters. The driest months, from May to September, experience significantly less rainfall, with average monthly totals below 100 millimeters.

Causes of Precipitation

The heavy precipitation during the wet season is primarily due to the northwest monsoon, which brings moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean. The presence of the Java Sea to the north further intensifies rainfall, as the warm sea surface temperatures promote the formation of thunderclouds. In contrast, during the dry season, the southeast monsoon prevails, bringing drier air from Australia. The absence of rain-bearing weather systems and the reduced influence of the Java Sea result in minimal precipitation during these months.

Rainfall Patterns

Jakarta, Indonesia, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The city experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season from October to April and a dry season from May to September. During the wet season, heavy rainfall is common, with monthly rainfall often exceeding 300 mm. The dry season is characterized by less frequent rainfall, but sporadic thunderstorms can occur. On average, Jakarta receives around 2,000 mm of rainfall annually, making it one of the wettest cities in Southeast Asia.

Impact of Rainfall

The heavy rainfall in Jakarta has significant implications for the city’s infrastructure and economy. The city’s drainage system often struggles to cope with the volume of water during the wet season, leading to frequent flooding. This can disrupt transportation, damage businesses, and pose health risks to residents. Additionally, the rainfall can cause landslides in surrounding areas, further impacting infrastructure and communities. The variability of rainfall also affects Jakarta’s agricultural sector, as farmers must adapt their practices to the changing weather conditions.

Unusual Occurrence

Snowfall in Jakarta, Indonesia, is an extremely rare phenomenon. The city’s equatorial location near the equator typically experiences tropical temperatures and abundant rainfall. However, on January 16, 2017, Jakarta witnessed a light dusting of snow in the mountainous area of Puncak, located about 80 kilometers south of the city center. This snowfall was the first recorded instance of precipitation in the form of snow within the Jakarta metropolitan area.

Scientific Explanation

The unusual snowfall was attributed to a combination of factors. A rare cold front moved through the region, driving temperatures in the Puncak area below freezing. Simultaneously, a thick cloud cover trapped moisture in the atmosphere, allowing the formation of snowflakes. These conditions combined to create the extraordinary sight of snow falling in an Indonesian city. While the snowfall was not significant, it attracted widespread attention and became a memorable event for the city’s residents. The snowfall serves as a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, the forces of nature can produce remarkable and unexpected phenomena.

Sun’s Position and Intensity

In Jakarta, Indonesia, the sun’s position varies throughout the year due to the city’s proximity to the equator. During the northern hemisphere’s summer (April to September), the sun is higher in the sky, resulting in longer daylight hours. Conversely, during the southern hemisphere’s summer (October to March), the sun is lower in the sky, leading to shorter daylight hours.

The intensity of sunlight in Jakarta is generally high throughout the year, with an average of 7.5 hours of sunshine per day. However, during the rainy season (November to April), cloud cover can reduce sunlight exposure, particularly in the afternoons. The city experiences minimal snowfall or frost, making the sun an almost constant presence.

Impact on Weather and Climate

The sun’s position and intensity play a significant role in Jakarta’s weather and climate. The high sunlight intensity contributes to the city’s warm and humid tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) throughout the year. The sun’s position during the northern hemisphere’s summer results in increased rainfall, as the Intertropical Convergence Zone moves north, bringing moisture to the region. During the southern hemisphere’s summer, the sun’s position shifts south, reducing rainfall in Jakarta.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, offers skygazers the opportunity to witness the moon’s mesmerizing presence nightly. The moon’s daily ascent and descent provide a celestial spectacle that varies subtly throughout the year. While the exact times of moonrise and moonset change according to the lunar cycle, skywatchers can anticipate the moon’s appearance at different hours of the night.

During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible from Earth because it is positioned between the sun and our planet. As the lunar cycle progresses, the moon gradually waxes, rising later each night and illuminating the sky with its crescente form. The full moon, which occurs when the moon is opposite the sun in the sky, rises around sunset and sets around sunrise. During its waning phase, the moon rises later and sets earlier, gradually diminishing in size until it reaches the new moon phase again.

Climate and Seasonality

Jakarta, Indonesia has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by year-round high temperatures and humidity. The city experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season, which lasts from October to May, and the dry season, which runs from June to September. During the wet season, humidity levels often soar to over 90%, while during the dry season, they typically drop to around 70%.

Impact on Health and Comfort

High humidity levels can have a significant impact on human health and comfort. Prolonged exposure to high humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. It can also worsen respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, high humidity can make it difficult to regulate body temperature, causing discomfort and irritability.

Wind Patterns in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia’s sprawling capital city, experiences a tropical climate with two distinct monsoon seasons: the northwest monsoon (October to April) and the southeast monsoon (May to September). The city lies on the northwest coast of Java, and its proximity to the ocean significantly influences its wind patterns. During the northwest monsoon, winds predominantly blow from the northwest, bringing warm and humid air from the Indian Ocean. These winds can also carry tropical cyclones, which can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. During the southeast monsoon, winds typically blow from the southeast, bringing drier and cooler air from the Australian continent.

The wind speed in Jakarta varies throughout the year, with the strongest winds occurring during the northwest monsoon season. The average wind speed during this season ranges from 10 to 20 kilometers per hour (6 to 12 miles per hour). During the southeast monsoon season, the average wind speed is lower, ranging from 5 to 15 kilometers per hour (3 to 9 miles per hour). The wind direction can also vary within the city, with different parts experiencing different prevailing wind patterns. For example, areas closer to the coast tend to experience stronger winds, while inland areas may have more variable wind conditions.

Dry Season (May – September)

The dry season is the ideal time to visit Jakarta, characterized by sunny skies and minimal rainfall. Temperatures hover around a comfortable 30-33°C (86-91°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities. The city’s vibrant street life and cultural attractions come alive during this period, with festivals and events taking place throughout the season. Additionally, flight schedules from international destinations are more frequent, and prices are generally lower compared to the rainy season.

Rainy Season (October – April)

The rainy season in Jakarta can be unpredictable, with heavy downpours occurring at any time. However, it offers a different perspective on the city, showcasing its lush green parks and vibrant street markets under a different light. Temperatures remain high, averaging around 28-32°C (82-90°F), but humidity levels can rise significantly. Despite the occasional rainfall, the city remains active, with many indoor attractions, such as museums and shopping malls, providing ample entertainment options. Flights from certain destinations may be less frequent during this season, and prices might be slightly higher.

Solar Potential in Jakarta:

Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, exhibits immense solar potential, owing to its equatorial location and year-round abundance of sunshine. The city receives an average of 5.5 peak sun hours per day, making it a prime candidate for solar energy utilization. This translates into an estimated solar energy potential of over 3,000 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually, which is equivalent to generating electricity for approximately 1.5 million households. With its rapidly growing energy demand, Jakarta can significantly benefit from tapping into this abundant renewable resource.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Harnessing solar energy in Jakarta comes with both challenges and opportunities. While the city enjoys ample solar irradiation, its dense urban environment poses challenges for rooftop solar installations. Space constraints and a lack of suitable rooftops can hinder the widespread adoption of solar panels. Additionally, Jakarta experiences occasional periods of heavy rainfall, which can impact solar power generation. However, these challenges are offset by the rising costs of conventional energy sources, increasing energy consumption in the city, and the government’s supportive policies. Jakarta has adopted a solar rooftop program and provides incentives for solar installations, making it an attractive investment for both residential and commercial consumers.

Flat Lowlands and Coastal Plains

Jakarta is situated on the northwestern coast of Java, the most populous island in Indonesia. The city’s topography is predominantly characterized by flat lowlands and coastal plains. These areas are formed by the deposition of sediment from the Ciliwung River and other nearby rivers over centuries. The land is generally flat and low-lying, with an average elevation of just a few meters above sea level. This flat topography makes Jakarta vulnerable to flooding, which is a major concern for the city’s residents.

Upland Areas and Hills

The northern part of Jakarta is characterized by upland areas and hills. These areas are formed by the remnants of the ancient volcanic activity that shaped the landscape of Java. The hills are generally steep and rocky, with elevations ranging from a few tens of meters to over 100 meters. The highest point in Jakarta is Mount Gede, which is located in the southern part of the city and has an elevation of over 1,500 meters. The upland areas and hills provide a scenic backdrop to the city and offer opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK)

Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK) is Jakarta’s main international airport, located approximately 20 kilometers northwest of the city center. It is the busiest airport in Indonesia, handling over 60 million passengers annually. CGK has three terminals: Terminal 1 serves domestic flights, Terminal 2 serves international flights, and Terminal 3 is a budget terminal. The airport offers a wide range of amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and currency exchange counters. It is well-connected to the city center via rail, bus, and taxi services.

Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (HLP)

Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (HLP) is a smaller airport located in East Jakarta, approximately 8 kilometers from the city center. It primarily serves domestic flights, but it also has a limited number of international flights to destinations in Southeast Asia. HLP has two terminals: Terminal 1 serves domestic flights, and Terminal 2 serves international flights. The airport offers basic amenities such as a few restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. It is less crowded than CGK but has limited transportation options to the city center.

History of Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, has a storied history that spans centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 4th century when it was a small fishing village known as Sunda Kelapa. Over time, the village grew in importance as a trading port, attracting merchants from across the region. In the 16th century, the Portuguese established a trading post in Sunda Kelapa, marking the beginning of European influence in the area. The Dutch East India Company later took control of the port in the 17th century and renamed it Batavia. Under Dutch rule, Batavia flourished as a major center of commerce and administration. It became the capital of the Dutch East Indies, a vast colony that encompassed most of present-day Indonesia.

After World War II, Indonesia gained independence from the Dutch and Batavia was renamed Jakarta. The city became the capital of the newly independent nation and has since grown into a vibrant metropolis. Jakarta is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from its indigenous population, the Dutch, and other Asian countries. It is a major center of commerce, finance, and industry, and is home to a diverse population of over 10 million people.