Tarakan Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Indonesia

Temperature

Tarakan experiences a tropical rainforest climate with consistently high temperatures year-round. The average daily temperature hovers around 27-29°C (81-84°F), with little variation throughout the year. The warmest months are typically September and October, while the coolest months are February and March. However, even during these cooler months, temperatures rarely dip below 25°C (77°F). This consistent warmth makes Tarakan a pleasant destination for visitors seeking a tropical getaway.

Rainfall

Tarakan receives significant rainfall, with an average annual precipitation of around 3,000 mm (120 in). The rainy season extends from October to April, with peak rainfall occurring in December and January. During these months, heavy downpours are common, and flooding can sometimes occur. However, the dry season from May to September provides a break from the incessant rain, with much less precipitation and more sunshine. Despite the high rainfall, humidity levels are generally moderate, making the climate relatively comfortable.

Average Monthly Temperatures

Tarakan, a city in Indonesia’s East Kalimantan province, experiences consistently high temperatures throughout the year. The average monthly temperature ranges between 27.2°C (80.9°F) and 28.2°C (82.7°F). The warmest months are September and October, with average temperatures hovering around 28.2°C. Conversely, the coolest months are January and February, when temperatures dip slightly to 27.2°C. Tarakan’s tropical climate ensures minimal seasonal variation in temperature, providing a warm and humid atmosphere year-round.

Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures

The daily temperature range in Tarakan is typically narrow, with average daytime temperatures varying between 29°C (84.2°F) and 30°C (86°F). Nighttime temperatures, on average, fluctuate between 25°C (77°F) and 26°C (78.8°F). This moderate nighttime cooling offers respite from the daytime heat, allowing for more comfortable sleeping conditions. Overall, Tarakan’s temperature profile characterizes a tropical climate with consistent warmth and minimal diurnal temperature variation.

Types of Clouds in Tarakan

Tarakan, Indonesia, experiences a variety of cloud formations due to its tropical climate. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, white appearance, are common during the day. These clouds are associated with fair weather and can indicate the presence of rising air. Stratus clouds, on the other hand, are flat, gray layers that cover the sky. They often bring light rain or drizzle and can create a gloomy atmosphere. Cirrus clouds, the highest and thinnest type of cloud, are made of ice crystals and appear as wispy streaks across the sky. They indicate fair weather and can be a precursor to clear skies.

Cloud Formation Mechanisms

Cloud formation in Tarakan involves a combination of factors, including temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. When warm, moist air rises, it cools and condenses, forming clouds. The type of cloud formed depends on the temperature and stability of the atmosphere. Stable air masses favor the formation of stratus clouds, while unstable air masses create cumulus clouds. Atmospheric pressure also plays a role, with low pressure systems associated with increased cloudiness and precipitation. Tarakan’s location near the equator and its proximity to the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean contribute to its frequent cloud cover.

Precipitation Patterns

Tarakan, a city located on the eastern coast of Borneo, Indonesia, experiences significant precipitation throughout the year. The city has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high rainfall and relatively constant temperatures. On average, Tarakan receives over 3,000 millimeters (118 inches) of precipitation annually. The wettest months occur during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from October to May. During this period, heavy rainfall is common, and the city often experiences flooding. The driest months are June through September, with lower precipitation levels and more sunshine.

Variability and Extreme Events

The precipitation in Tarakan exhibits considerable variability, both seasonally and from year to year. Interannual variability is influenced by factors such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole. During El Niño years, precipitation tends to be lower in Tarakan due to a shift in atmospheric circulation patterns. Conversely, during La Niña years, precipitation increases. Extreme weather events, such as tropical cyclones, can also contribute to exceptionally high rainfall amounts in Tarakan. These events can cause widespread flooding and infrastructure damage.

Rainfall Pattern in Tarakan

Tarakan, a city located on the island of Kalimantan, Indonesia, experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is approximately 3,000 mm, with a distinct wet season from October to May and a drier season from June to September. During the wet season, heavy rainfall can occur almost daily, while during the drier season, rainfall frequency decreases and intensity diminishes.

Seasonal Variations in Rainfall

The wettest months in Tarakan are November and December, which receive an average of 400-500 mm of rainfall each. During these months, rainfall is often associated with thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The driest months are July and August, with average rainfall of around 100 mm each. However, it’s worth noting that even during the drier season, Tarakan can experience sporadic rainfall, particularly in the late afternoon or evening. The city’s overall high rainfall contributes to its lush vegetation and tropical rainforest ecology, which supports a wide range of plant and animal species.

Unprecedented Snowfall in Tarakan

Tarakan, a city in North Kalimantan, Indonesia, experienced an extraordinary snowfall on January 18, 2023. This rare phenomenon, thought to be the first snowfall ever recorded in the city, surprised and captivated residents. The snow, which covered the ground in a thin, white blanket, blanketed trees and rooftops, transforming the tropical landscape into a winter wonderland.

Possible Causes

While snowfall is common in higher-altitude regions of Indonesia, it is highly unusual in Tarakan, which is located near the equator and typically has a warm, humid climate. Experts believe that a combination of factors may have contributed to the unprecedented snowfall, including a low-pressure system and high altitude winds that pushed cold air from higher elevations down to the city. The moisture in the air, which is often abundant in tropical climates, condensed and froze, leading to the snowfall.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Tarakan, Indonesia

In Tarakan, Indonesia, the sun rises and sets relatively consistently throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator. The earliest sunrise occurs in June, around 5:45 AM, and the latest sunrise is in December, around 6:00 AM. Similarly, the earliest sunset is around 6:00 PM in June, while the latest sunset is around 6:20 PM in December.

The length of daylight in Tarakan varies only slightly throughout the year. The longest days are in June and July, with an average of 12 hours and 15 minutes of daylight. The shortest days are in December and January, with an average of 11 hours and 45 minutes of daylight.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Tarakan, Indonesia

The moonrise and moonset times in Tarakan, Indonesia, vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s rotation, the moon’s orbit around the Earth, and the tilt of the Earth’s axis. In general, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west. The exact times can be calculated using astronomical tables or software.

For example, on July 15, 2023, the moon will rise at 6:04 PM and set at 5:33 AM the following day. These times are in local time, which is UTC+8:00. To convert to your local time, you will need to add or subtract the appropriate number of hours.

Phases of the Moon in Tarakan, Indonesia

The moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits the Earth, including new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent. The phase of the moon in Tarakan, Indonesia, can be observed with the naked eye or through a telescope.

The full moon, when the entire face of the moon is illuminated, occurs once a month. The new moon, when the moon is not visible from Earth, also occurs once a month. The other phases of the moon occur in between. The phase of the moon can affect the tides, animal behavior, and human sleep patterns.

Average Humidity Levels

Tarakan, Indonesia exhibits consistently high humidity due to its equatorial climate and proximity to the ocean. Throughout the year, the average relative humidity hovers around 80-85%, with minimal fluctuations between seasons. This high humidity level creates a tropical, muggy atmosphere, often leading to discomfort and heat stress for residents and visitors alike.

Seasonal Variations

Although humidity remains elevated year-round in Tarakan, there are slight variations during different seasons. During the wet season (September to April), humidity levels tend to be slightly higher, reaching 85-90%. This increased humidity coincides with increased rainfall, creating a more saturated and oppressive atmosphere. Conversely, during the dry season (May to August), humidity levels may drop slightly but still typically remain above 80%.

Wind Patterns and Variability

Tarakan, located in Northern Kalimantan, Indonesia, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The prevailing wind direction is northeasterly during the dry season (April-October) and southwesterly during the wet season (November-March). These winds are driven by the seasonal reversal of the Asian monsoon circulation. During the dry season, the northeasterly winds are part of the trade wind system, which flows from the high-pressure area over the Australian continent towards the low-pressure area over Southeast Asia. In contrast, during the wet season, the southwesterly winds are associated with the Indian Ocean monsoon, which brings moist air from the ocean over the Indonesian archipelago.

Wind Speed and Impacts

The wind speed in Tarakan varies throughout the year, with higher speeds typically recorded during the dry season. The average wind speed during the dry season is around 15-20 kilometers per hour (km/h), while during the wet season, it drops to approximately 10-15 km/h. The strong winds during the dry season can contribute to dust and haze, which can affect air quality and visibility. Additionally, the winds can impact the operations of the local oil and gas industry, which is a major economic driver for Tarakan. During the wet season, the strong southwesterly winds can sometimes bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to the region, leading to flooding and landslides.

Optimal Season for a Trip to Tarakan

The preferable time to visit Tarakan, Indonesia, falls within the dry season, which spans from May to October. During this period, the city enjoys clear skies, low humidity, and minimal rainfall, creating an ideal climate for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The average temperature remains consistently between 24°C and 32°C, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the city’s natural attractions. Notably, Tarakan’s coastal location means that the city benefits from refreshing sea breezes, which further enhance the pleasant weather.

Shoulder Months for Favorable Conditions

Those seeking to avoid the peak season crowds while still enjoying generally favorable conditions may consider visiting Tarakan during the shoulder months of March and April. While there is a slightly higher chance of occasional showers, the weather remains warm and relatively dry. Additionally, as the city prepares for the upcoming dry season, the greenery is at its most vibrant, offering picturesque views for nature enthusiasts. Similarly, the pre-monsoon period in November can be a viable option for those seeking a more tranquil experience, though heavier rainfall should be anticipated.

Potential of Solar Energy in Tarakan

Tarakan, an island city in Indonesia, has immense potential for harnessing solar energy due to its tropical location and abundant sunshine throughout the year. The city receives an average of six hours of peak sunlight per day, making it a prime candidate for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Moreover, the increasing demand for electricity, coupled with the government’s push for renewable energy, presents a lucrative opportunity for solar power development.

Current Solar Energy Utilization

Despite its potential, the current utilization of solar energy in Tarakan is relatively low. As of 2021, only a handful of commercial buildings and private residences have installed solar PV systems. The main barriers to wider adoption include high upfront investment costs and lack of awareness about the long-term benefits of solar energy. The government has recognized these challenges and is implementing various incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage the adoption of solar energy. As a result, the installation of solar PV systems in Tarakan is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, contributing to the city’s sustainable energy goals.

Coastal Plains and Swamplands

Tarakan is characterized by its low-lying coastal plains that extend inland for several kilometers. The plains are predominantly flat, with elevations ranging from sea level to around 10 meters. The coastal zone is fringed by mangrove forests and intertidal mudflats, which serve as important habitats for marine life. However, the rapid development of coastal areas for urban and industrial purposes has resulted in significant habitat loss and environmental degradation.

Rolling Hills and Mountains

To the north and east of the coastal plains, the topography gradually rises into rolling hills and mountains. The hills have moderate slopes and elevations of up to 100 meters, while the mountains are more rugged and reach heights of over 200 meters. The hills and mountains are covered in dense tropical rainforest, which provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. However, deforestation and land conversion have led to the fragmentation of these forest ecosystems, posing threats to biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Juwata International Airport (TRK)

Juwata International Airport (TRK) is the primary airport serving Tarakan, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Located approximately 4 kilometers from the city center, it is the main gateway to the city and the surrounding region. TRK features a single paved runway that can accommodate turboprop aircraft and narrow-body jets. The airport has a modern terminal building with basic amenities such as baggage claim, check-in counters, and a limited selection of shops and restaurants. Regular flights connect Tarakan to major cities in Indonesia, including Jakarta, Balikpapan, and Surabaya.

Alternative Airports

Although Juwata International Airport is the closest airport to Tarakan, there are other nearby options that may be considered for alternative routes or connections.

One alternative is Sepinggan International Airport (BPN) in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, approximately 230 kilometers southwest of Tarakan. BPN is a larger airport with a wider range of domestic and international flights, providing more connection options to other destinations.

Another alternative is Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman International Airport (SZB) in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, approximately 190 kilometers southeast of Tarakan. SZB is a regional airport with flights to major cities in Indonesia, including Jakarta, Surabaya, and Makassar.

History and Development

Tarakan, situated on the eponymous island off the coast of East Kalimantan, holds a significant place in Indonesian history. During World War II, it became a pivotal battleground, with its oil fields drawing the attention of both Allied and Japanese forces. The fierce fighting and resistance of the local population during the Battle of Tarakan left an enduring legacy, shaping the city’s identity. After Indonesia’s independence, Tarakan emerged as a major center for oil and gas production, driving its economic growth and development. Today, it serves as a thriving business hub with a diverse population.

Culture and Tourism

Tarakan’s cultural tapestry is a vibrant blend of local and international influences. The city’s proximity to neighboring Malaysia and Brunei has fostered a rich exchange of traditions, resulting in a unique culinary scene featuring Malay and Indian flavors. Visitors can explore the city’s historical heritage at the Tarakan War Cemetery, which honors the soldiers who fought during World War II. The nearby mangrove forests provide an opportunity for nature enthusiasts to witness the rich biodiversity of the area. Tarakan also boasts a lively arts and music scene, showcased in its annual cultural festivals.