Climate Highlights of Bhutan 2022

1. Annual rainfall 2022

The annual average rainfall (area average) was 2006.55 mm in 2022. The country as a whole received near normal to slightly below normal rainfall against the long-term average. The highest 24-hour rainfall was recorded at Bhur with 308.0 mm. Gasa experienced the highest number of rainy days with 211 days (rainy days is defined as rainfall greater than or equal to 1 mm). It is to be noted that a greater number of rainy days does not translate to more accumulated rain. However, the highest total annual rainfall was recorded at Phuentsholing with 8255.80 mm, Sipsu with 5604.10 mm followed by Bhur with 5326.30 mm.

2. Maximum and minimum temperature 2022

The annual average maximum temperature was 22.61oC and minimum temperature was 12.22oC across the country. The highest daily maximum temperature was recorded at Punakha met station with 38.5oC and the lowest daily minimum temperature was recorded at Haa met station with -12.5oC. Haa experienced a greater number of days with the minimum temperature below or equal to zero with 138 days (minimum temperature <=0).

3. Monsoon 2022

Bhutan experiences the summer monsoon from June to September. Bhutan receives most of its annual rainfall during summer monsoon so it is one of the predominant seasons of the year that influences much of the climate in Bhutan.

3.1 Rainfall

During the summer of 2022, the country as a whole received near normal to slightly above normal rainfall against the long-term average 1996-2022.

3.2 Average Temperature

During the summer of 2022, the country as a whole received near normal average temperature against the long-term average 1996-2022.