Weather in Penang and tourist seasons
Penang's cloudy weather makes spectacular sunsets
The weather in Penang is influenced by the island’s position just 450 miles from the equator. Penang has a wet and humid maritime climate and experiences an annual monsoon from August to October.
But even during these months it is rarely torrential rain with a few hours of sunlight almost guaranteed each day. And the cheaper accommodation prices and lack of crowds during this off-season more than compensate for sporadic downpours.
On average the temperature in Penang keeps to a fairly constant 27°C – 35°C during the day and 20°C – 27°C during the night, although windchill factors may affect this to some degree. Strong winds can batter the coast at certain times, although this is rarely a major problem during drier times of the year. Be sure to remember your sun block whenever you are holidaying in Penang as it is easy to get burnt even when it is cloudy.
Penang weather by month
Weather in Penang in January
The weather in Penang is pretty dry generally but it stays humid for the whole month so the heat can be felt quite strongly. Popping indoors for an occasional blast of air conditioning is wise.
Weather in Penang in February
February is the driest month of the year for Penang weather so it is wise to make the most of the time to hit the beach. But you must remember the sun cream as it is blisteringly hot and very easy to burn.
Weather in Penang in March
The island is only slightly affected by the southwest monsoon but even so Penang weather gets a little wetter during March. Getting public transport can be a struggle with rickshaws constantly splashing from the curbside.
Weather in Penang in April
Penang weather in April gets even wetter with almost half of the month considered ‘wet days’. Stay away from the coast if it starts to pour and perhaps carry an umbrella, it can protect you from both the sun and April showers if needs be.
Weather in Penang in May
May gets a little worse still as it is the height of Penang’s lesser monsoon. Although most tourist activities are still possible it would be wise not to plan too much beach time and arrange alternatives should the heavens open.
Weather in Penang in June
From June the weather in Penang becomes much more bearable with the second lowest amount of rainfall of any month. Even so there are still around 13 wet days so it is wise not to stray too far from shelter.
Windy Penang is perfect for watersports
Weather in Penang in July
July is slightly better for Penang weather despite still being extremely hot and humid. Walking long distances will still be tough, however, so carry a bottle of water with you and plan regular breaks.
Weather in Penang in August
Temperatures in Penang in August remain in the high 90°C range so remember to wear loose-fitting clothing and to cover up as much as possible. Avoid being out in the sun from 11:00 to 14:00 as this is when the sun is at its fiercest.
Weather in Penang in September
As the monsoon weather intensifies Penang experiences average precipitation of 40cm during September. Downpours are mainly confined to afternoons so it is best to rise early and hit the beach before lunch, perhaps reserving some indoor activities for the afternoon.
Weather in Penang in October
October weather in Penang is the worst of the year with more more than 60 per cent chance of heavy rain. This is time to check out some of the fabulous restaurants that Penang has to offer and be creative with how you spend your time.
Weather in Penang in November
November in Penang means more heavy downpours but to a lesser extent that the previous couple of months. The temperatures remain constantly high, however, so there is no respite from the tropical searing heat.
Weather in Penang in December
December comes as a welcome relief as the weather in Penang continues to brighten with less clouds in the sky. This is a great time to pay a visit to the outdoor café terraces and parks or just to lounge about on the beach.
