Climate Overview
The climate in Sandakan is hot. The average annual temperature is 30°C and approximately 192mm of precipitation falls per year. December is the wettest month, receiving around 33mm of rainfall. Sandakan sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Sandakan sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 24°C to 39°C. April is the hottest month, with daytime highs reaching 39°C and an average of 33°C. December is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 24°C and an average of 27°C. Daily temperature variation is modest, with an average difference of 8°C between highs and lows. The sharpest temperature change occurs between September and October, with a 3°C shift in average temperatures.
Precipitation
Sandakan is a quite dry location, receiving approximately 192mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 16mm per month. The wettest month is May, averaging 33mm of rainfall. July and November also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is March, with just 0mm. That's 33mm less than May, 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.
Wind
Sandakan is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 6km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is October, averaging 13km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in August, with average winds dropping to 3km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind speeds vary significantly across the year, with a 10km/h difference between the calmest and windiest months. This level of variation is worth factoring into travel plans.
Seasons
16 days until Autumn
It is currently summer in Sandakan, which began on June 21, 2026. Sandakan sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced — temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in April at around 39°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in December near 24°C. Autumn is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 — 16 days from now.
Spring
Temperatures range from 25 to 39°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 33mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 5km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season — a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from 25 to 36°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 61mm over the season and a monthly average of 20mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 4km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal — perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 26 to 32°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 36mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 11km/h. Layered clothing works best as temperatures gradually cool — enjoy the crisp air and changing scenery.
Winter
Temperatures range from 24 to 38°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 62mm over the season and a monthly average of 21mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 4km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Sandakan 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. 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.
