Vientiane Weather Today

Vientiane, Laos: Climate and Weather Year Round

Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, located in the northern part of the country. It has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The city experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year, with temperatures influenced by its proximity to the Mekong River and surrounding mountains.

Temperature

Vientiane has a relatively stable temperature range, with warm to hot temperatures year round. The average annual temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit). However, there are variations in temperature between the cooler dry season and the hotter wet season.

The dry season in Vientiane typically lasts from November to April, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius (59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). December and January are the coolest months, with average temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). The hottest months are April and May, with temperatures often reaching 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher.

The wet season in Vientiane usually starts in May and lasts until October. During this time, temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity levels are high, making the weather feel even hotter. Despite the high temperatures, rainfall helps to cool down the city.

Rainfall

Vientiane receives the majority of its rainfall during the wet season. The average annual precipitation is around 1,500 millimeters (59 inches). The wettest months are typically from July to September, with heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms.

During the wet season, the Mekong River rises, and the surrounding areas may experience flooding. It is important to note that heavy rainfall can lead to temporary disruptions in transportation and outdoor activities.

Sunshine

Vientiane enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. The sunniest months are from November to February, during the dry season, with an average of 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. However, during the wet season, cloud cover increases, and the number of sunny hours decreases to around 5 to 6 hours per day.

Wind

The prevailing wind in Vientiane is from the northeast during the dry season and from the southwest during the wet season. The wind speed is generally calm, with occasional gusts during thunderstorms.

Climate Highlights

Vientiane experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by warm to hot temperatures year round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature ranges from 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives an average of 1,500 millimeters (59 inches) of rainfall annually, with the wettest months being from July to September.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vientiane is during the dry season, from November to February. During this period, the weather is relatively cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. The lower humidity levels and reduced chance of rainfall make it an ideal time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor markets and festivals.

However, it is important to note that the dry season is also the peak tourist season in Vientiane, and popular attractions may be crowded. It is advisable to make accommodation and travel arrangements in advance.

If you don't mind the heat and occasional rainfall, the shoulder months of March and October can also be good times to visit, as the weather is still pleasant, and tourist crowds are relatively smaller.

Conclusion

Vientiane, Laos, experiences a tropical savanna climate with hot and humid weather year round. The city has a distinct wet and dry season, with the wet season lasting from May to October and the dry season from November to April. The average annual temperature ranges from 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). The wettest months are from July to September, with heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms. The best time to visit Vientiane is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is relatively cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.