Kuantan Weather, When to Go and Climate Information

(Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia)

As it is located on the river estuary and the coastline, Kuantan's climate is classified as tropical rainforest, with two seasons each year - dry and hot, and very wet.

The hot, dry season is due to the blocking of the south-west winds, blowing from the land mass of Sumatra towards Peninsular Malaysia's west coast by the Titiwangsa mountains. During this seasonal weather, April to September, ambient temperatures can easily reach 40°C / 104°F.

Seasonal Climate Variations / When to Go

The rainy season runs from October to March, with north-easterly winds bringing heavy rain and often causing floods in the region, especially along the Kuantan River. From November through January, the north-east monsoon elevates humidity levels to uncomfortable heights, with daily thunderstorms and similar weather.

Strong winds and high seas make travelling to offshore islands dangerous during this time, and there is little sunshine. During the rainy season, actual temperatures can fall to around 27°C / 81°F, but increased humidity will affect the heat index. As in the rest of Malaysia, air quality in Kuantan is affected during the drier months by a haze of pollution from slash-and-burn agricultural activities in Indonesia.

Seasonal variations between hot and dry, and wet and humid, affect the climate and temperatures here, as the cooling effect of the monsoon rains and thunderstorms may be largely negated by excessive humidity forcing up the heat index. Grey skies and strong winds are the norm for the months of November, December and January, and, combined with the possibility of flooding, make this season not the best time to visit.

High summer brings high temperatures combined with the haze, meaning that visitors with weak chests and those prone to asthma-related illnesses should perhaps choose another time to visit. The best months of the year are in the shoulder seasons approximating spring and autumn, thus avoiding the fierce heat and pollution in summer, and the grey skies and torrential winter rains. Pleasantly hot days with lots of sunshine and balmy evenings during these months will make sure your holiday is an unforgettable experience for all the right reasons.

Kuantan Weather and Climate Chart (Averages)

	Maximum	Minimum
January	29°C / 84°F	23°C / 73°F
February	31°C / 88°F	23°C / 73°F
March	31°C / 88°F	24°C / 75°F
April	33°C / 91°F	24°C / 75°F
May	33°C / 91°F	25°C / 77°F
June	33°C / 91°F	24°C / 75°F
July	32°C / 90°F	24°C / 75°F
August	33°C / 91°F	24°C / 75°F
September	33°C / 91°F	24°C / 75°F
October	33°C / 91°F	24°C / 75°F
November	30°C / 86°F	23°C / 73°F
December	29°C / 84°F	23°C / 73°F