Kampong Trach Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Cambodia

Temperature and Humidity

Kampong Trach experiences tropical weather year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F). The warmest months are March and April, while December and January are the coolest. Humidity is generally high, reaching an average of 80% throughout the year. The low humidity levels in February and March provide a respite from the year-round humidity.

Rainfall and Sunshine

Kampong Trach has a pronounced wet season from May to October, when rainfall is abundant. The heaviest rainfall occurs in September and October, with an average of over 200mm (8 inches) per month. The dry season from November to April is less rainy, with average rainfall below 100mm (4 inches) per month. Kampong Trach receives an average of over 2,000mm (80 inches) of rainfall annually. Despite the high rainfall, the area enjoys ample sunshine, with an average of 6-7 hours per day throughout the year.

Annual Temperature Trends

Kampong Trach, Cambodia, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The average annual temperature hovers around 27°C (81°F), with minimal fluctuations between seasons. January typically marks the coolest month, averaging 25°C (77°F), while April and May are the warmest, with average temperatures reaching 29°C (84°F). The consistent warmth creates a comfortable and tropical atmosphere for the majority of the year.

Seasonal Variations

Although the annual temperature remains relatively stable, Kampong Trach does experience seasonal variations. The wet season, which spans from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and slightly elevated temperatures. During this period, average temperatures range from 28°C (82°F) to 30°C (86°F). The dry season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by less precipitation and slightly cooler temperatures. Average temperatures during this season typically fall between 24°C (75°F) and 27°C (81°F). The dry season offers a reprieve from the humidity and heat of the wet season, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.

Cloud Formations and Their Impact

Clouds in Kampong Trach, Cambodia, are as diverse and dynamic as the landscape itself. The most common cloud type during the dry season is the cirrus cloud, characterized by its wispy, hair-like appearance. These clouds form high in the atmosphere, composed of ice crystals that refract sunlight, creating a breathtaking spectacle at sunrise and sunset. During the wet season, towering cumulonimbus clouds take center stage, their anvil-shaped tops reaching up to the tropopause. These clouds bring abundant rainfall, essential for sustaining the region’s lush vegetation and agriculture.

Significance for Local Communities

Clouds play a crucial role in the lives of the local communities in Kampong Trach. Their presence indicates the arrival of the rainy season, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat and providing water for crops and livestock. The patterns and movements of clouds are closely observed by farmers, fishermen, and weather forecasters to predict upcoming weather conditions and plan their activities accordingly. Clouds also contribute to the region’s stunning landscapes, providing a picturesque backdrop for temples, rice paddies, and the vast Mekong River. Their ever-changing formations add a touch of magic to the already enchanting surroundings, inspiring poets, artists, and photographers alike.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Kampong Trach, located in southwestern Cambodia, experiences a pronounced wet and dry season. The wet season typically extends from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in August and September. Monthly precipitation during this period can exceed 200 mm, contributing to a significant portion of the annual rainfall. Conversely, the dry season, from November to April, brings minimal rainfall, with monthly totals often below 50 mm. This variation in precipitation is driven by the region’s monsoon system, which brings moisture-laden winds during the wet season.

Annual Variability and Extreme Events

Annual precipitation in Kampong Trach is characterized by its variability. While the average annual rainfall is approximately 1,200 mm, deviations from the mean are common. During particularly dry years, precipitation can fall below 1,000 mm, while in extremely wet years, it can surpass 1,500 mm. Extreme rainfall events, such as tropical cyclones and heavy storms, can occasionally contribute to substantial rainfall within a short period. These events can lead to flooding and other water-related hazards, impacting the local population and infrastructure.

Annual Rainfall Pattern

Kampong Trach, a coastal town in Cambodia, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The annual rainfall pattern is heavily influenced by the Southwest Monsoon, which brings abundant precipitation during the months from May to October. During these wet months, the town receives the majority of its annual rainfall, with July and August typically recording the highest amounts. The average annual rainfall in Kampong Trach is around 2,500 millimeters (98 inches), making it a relatively wet region.

Seasonal Variability and Impact on Agriculture

The seasonal variability in rainfall has a significant impact on agricultural practices in Kampong Trach. The wet season provides ample water for rice cultivation, the main agricultural activity in the region. During this time, farmers plant and tend to their rice fields, utilizing the natural rainfall to water their crops. However, the heavy rainfall during the monsoon season can also cause flooding, damaging crops and infrastructure. Conversely, during the dry season (November to April), rainfall becomes scarce, requiring farmers to rely on irrigation systems to supplement water for their crops. The availability of water during the dry season is crucial for maintaining agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in the region.

Snowfall in Kampong Trach, Cambodia: A Historical Anomaly

The remote village of Kampong Trach, nestled within Cambodia’s verdant forests, witnessed an unprecedented phenomenon on January 29, 2023: snowfall. This extraordinary event marked the first recorded snowfall in Cambodia’s history. The picturesque sight of white flakes descending from the sky astonished and delighted villagers. However, the snowfall was short-lived, melting away within a few hours as the sun rose, leaving behind only a memory of this improbable winter wonder.

The snowfall in Kampong Trach was attributed to an unusual weather pattern that brought cold air from the north and met with rising warm air from the Gulf of Thailand. This resulted in the formation of clouds that released hail, which then crystallized into snow as it fell through the cold air. The snowfall was a testament to the whimsical nature of weather and its ability to produce unexpected occurrences, even in the most unlikely of places. While the snow may have been fleeting, its impact on Kampong Trach will likely be lasting, etched into the collective memory of its inhabitants as a day when winter’s magic briefly graced their tropical home.

Climate Summary

Kampong Trach, Cambodia, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season runs from May to October and is influenced by the southwest monsoon, bringing abundant rainfall to the region. During this time, the average rainfall can exceed 200 millimeters per month. In contrast, the dry season spans from November to April, with minimal rainfall and relatively dry conditions. Temperatures remain consistently high throughout the year, with average daily temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. The hottest months are typically March and April, preceding the onset of the wet season.

Sunlight Hours and UV Index

Kampong Trach enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 7-8 hours of sunlight per day. During the dry season, sunlight hours can reach 9-10 hours per day, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities. The UV index, which measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, is generally high in Kampong Trach, particularly during the midday hours. It is advisable to take necessary precautions when exposed to direct sunlight, such as wearing sunscreens, hats, and sunglasses to protect against harmful UV rays.

Humidity Levels

Kampong Trach experiences high humidity levels throughout the year, with average annual humidity ranging from 75% to 85%. This high humidity is primarily influenced by the tropical monsoon climate prevalent in Cambodia, which brings moisture-laden winds from the Gulf of Thailand. The humidity levels fluctuate seasonally, with the highest humidity occurring during the rainy season from May to October. During this period, the humidity can reach up to 95%, creating a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere.

Impact of Humidity on Health and Comfort

High humidity can significantly impact human health and comfort. It can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, as the body struggles to cool down through evaporation. Additionally, high humidity can exacerbate respiratory problems, such as asthma and allergies, by causing congestion and difficulty breathing. Moreover, the muggy atmosphere can promote the growth of mold and mildew, leading to health issues and indoor air quality concerns.

Wind Season in Kampong Trach, Cambodia

Kampong Trach, Cambodia, experiences two distinct wind seasons: the southwest monsoon and the northeast monsoon. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to October and brings strong winds from the southwest. These winds are often accompanied by heavy rainfall and can cause flooding in the region. The northeast monsoon occurs from November to April and brings drier, cooler winds from the northeast. These winds are often weaker than those of the southwest monsoon.

During the southwest monsoon, the average wind speed in Kampong Trach is about 20 kilometers per hour (12 miles per hour). However, wind speeds can exceed 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour) during storms. The northeast monsoon winds are typically weaker, with average speeds of about 10 kilometers per hour (6 miles per hour). During the dry season, from December to April, the average wind speed is about 5 kilometers per hour (3 miles per hour).

Best Time to Visit:

Kampong Trach enjoys a tropical climate with year-round warm temperatures. However, for an optimal experience, plan your trip during the dry season, which spans from November to April. During this time, the weather is at its best, with minimal rainfall and clear skies. The average temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Alternative Options:

If flexibility allows, consider visiting Kampong Trach during the shoulder months of May to October. Although rainfall increases, it’s generally lighter and less frequent. The humidity levels remain high but are tolerable. This period offers a quieter experience and can be a good time to enjoy the lush greenery and rice paddies for which Kampong Trach is renowned.

Potential and Development

Kampong Trach, located in Cambodia’s Kampong Chhnang province, possesses significant potential for solar energy development. The region experiences high levels of solar radiation, averaging over 5 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day. This favorable irradiance makes it an attractive location for photovoltaic (PV) systems. In recent years, the Cambodian government and international organizations have invested in solar energy projects in the area. Several large-scale PV plants have been commissioned, and many smaller, community-based systems have been installed in rural villages.

Benefits and Challenges

Solar energy offers numerous benefits to the people of Kampong Trach. It provides a clean, renewable source of electricity, which reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps to mitigate climate change. Solar energy can also improve energy access in remote areas that lack reliable grid connections. Additionally, it can create employment opportunities and stimulate economic development in the region. However, there are also challenges associated with solar energy development in Kampong Trach. One challenge is the high cost of PV systems, which can make it difficult for individuals and communities to afford them. Another challenge is the need for efficient energy storage solutions, as solar energy is intermittent and cannot be relied upon during nighttime or cloudy conditions.

Elevation and Landforms

Kampong Trach District is situated in the central part of Kampong Chhnang Province, Cambodia. The district’s topography is characterized by a relatively flat terrain, with an average elevation ranging between 10 to 20 meters above sea level. The landscape is predominantly composed of gently rolling hills and open plains, interspersed with isolated hillocks and low-lying areas. The presence of the Mekong River, which flows along the northern boundary of the district, has influenced the topography, creating a narrow stretch of alluvial plains along its banks.

Agricultural Implications

The relatively flat terrain and fertile soils of Kampong Trach contribute to its agricultural significance. The district is a major producer of rice, the staple crop of Cambodia. The vast majority of the land is dedicated to rice cultivation, with paddy fields covering much of the landscape. The availability of water from the Mekong River and the flat topography facilitate irrigation, allowing for year-round cultivation. Additionally, the hillocks and higher elevations provide suitable conditions for growing various upland crops, including cassava, maize, and vegetables. The agricultural productivity of Kampong Trach is essential to the livelihoods of the local population and contributes to the overall economy of Cambodia.

Pochentong International Airport (PNH)

The nearest major airport to Kampong Trach, Cambodia, is Pochentong International Airport (PNH) located approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) southwest of the city. PNH is the primary international airport serving Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, and offers a wide range of flights to destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. From PNH, travelers can easily connect to domestic flights to Kampong Trach Airport (KTI) or arrange for a direct transfer by road.

Kampong Trach Airport (KTI)

Kampong Trach Airport (KTI) is a small domestic airport located just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the city center of Kampong Trach. While KTI does not handle any international flights, it provides convenient connectivity within Cambodia. Several domestic airlines offer regular flights from Kampong Trach to Phnom Penh (PNH), Siem Reap (REP), and Sihanoukville (KOS). Travelers arriving at KTI can easily hire a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to their destination in Kampong Trach or nearby areas.

History of Kampong Trach

Kampong Trach, a historical district in Cambodia’s Kampot province, carries a rich past. The area was once a significant stronghold during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, who built a series of temples in the 13th century. Among these architectural wonders is the famed Prasat Neang Khmau, an ancient temple complex known for its intricate carvings and sandstone sculptures. Kampong Trach also played a pivotal role in Cambodian history during the colonial era, serving as a center of resistance against French occupation.

Cultural Significance of Kampong Trach

Kampong Trach is renowned for its vibrant Khmer culture and traditions. The district is home to a diverse population of ethnic groups, including the Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese, each contributing to the area’s unique culinary and artistic heritage. Kampong Trach is celebrated for its traditional festivals, such as the Pchum Ben, a religious holiday honoring ancestors, which attracts visitors from far and wide. The district is also known for its traditional handicrafts, including pottery, silk weaving, and silverwork.