Climate Overview
The climate in Kota Bharu is cold. The average annual temperature is -50°C and approximately 92mm of precipitation falls per year. December is the wettest month, receiving around 33mm of rainfall. Kota Bharu sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year. Snowfall occurs from August to December, with around 92cm accumulating over the season.
Temperature
Temperatures in Kota Bharu vary considerably across the year, with a 31°C difference between the coldest and warmest months. December is the warmest month, though highs remain moderate at -35°C with a mean of -36°C. August brings the harshest conditions, with lows dropping to -66°C and an average temperature of -64°C. Daily temperature variation is modest, with an average difference of 6°C between highs and lows. The sharpest temperature change occurs between September and October, with a 11°C shift in average temperatures.
Precipitation
Kota Bharu is a quite dry location, receiving approximately 92mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 8mm per month. The wettest month is November, averaging 33mm of rainfall. December and October also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is February, with just 0mm. That's 33mm less than November, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic. Snowfall is a regular feature from August to December, with around 92cm accumulating over the season. November typically sees the most snow at around 33cm.
Wind
Kota Bharu is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 8km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is March, averaging 10km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in September, with average winds dropping to 6km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. There is moderate seasonal variation in wind speed, with a 4km/h gap between the calmest and windiest months.
Seasons
16 days until Autumn
It is currently summer in Kota Bharu, which began on June 21, 2026. Kota Bharu sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced — temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in December at around -35°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in August near -66°C. Autumn is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 — 16 days from now.
Spring
Temperatures range from -58 to -43°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 0mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 9km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season — a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from -66 to -52°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 2mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 7km/h. Comfortable clothing with a light layer for cooler evenings is all you need.
Autumn
Temperatures range from -64 to -37°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 57mm over the season and a monthly average of 19mm. Expect around 57cm of snow accumulation during this period. Winds are generally light, averaging 7km/h. Layered clothing works best as temperatures gradually cool — enjoy the crisp air and changing scenery.
Winter
Temperatures range from -45 to -35°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 33mm for the entire season. Expect around 33cm of snow accumulation during this period. Winds are generally light, averaging 9km/h. Heavy layering and insulated outerwear are essential — exposed skin should be minimised outdoors.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Kota Bharu based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Snow is measured in centimetres (cm) and reflects average monthly snowfall accumulation. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.
