Living in Thailand

Weather in Thailand

Thailand is a long country, about 3,000 km north to south. It starts at around 20 degrees north latitude and extends toward the equator, stopping at around 6 degrees. Here's a good distance map for you. Thailand also varies in elevation from sea level to 2,500 m. What all this means is that Thailand has a number of climatic zones.

Thailand Weather - Seasons

Thailand has three seasons. Expats lovingly refer to the seasons as hot (Nov-Feb), hot and wet (Jun-Oct) and damned hot (Mar-May). Where you plan to live could, of course, temper the "damned hot" to hot. The tourism authority likes to call the hot season the "cool or mild season".

If you really truly love rain, then Ranong is your Nirvana. The folks near the Isthmus of Kra got 6,699 mm in 1955. For those who are metrically challenged, that's 22' of rainfall.

If you prefer a dryer climate, you might want to look around Prachuap or the Korat Plateau area. Those regions average somewhere around 1,000 -1,200 mm or 3.3' - 4' annually. As one might expect, river valleys and coastal regions are also prone to heavier rainfall. Details on Thailand's rainfall

For those of you who want more try Guide To Thailand .com details on Thailand's weather

Thailand Weather Suggestions

• Don't bring lots of heavy clothing unless you are planning to travel to colder climates
• Light jackets will be appropriate for riding a motorcycle, especially at night -- or in the rain
• Some nights November to February in the North and at elevation in the Northeast
• Consider light weight Gore tex rain gear
• Bring a couple of good hats/caps .. preferably cotton
• Beware of synthetic fabrics, especially for underwear