Surakarta Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Surakarta, Indonesia

Surakarta, also known as Solo, is a vibrant city located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is not only known for its rich cultural heritage but also for its unique climate and weather patterns. Understanding the climate of Surakarta is essential for residents and tourists alike, as it helps in planning various outdoor activities and determining the best time to visit the city.

Geographical Location

Surakarta is situated at approximately 110 meters (360 feet) above sea level, making it a relatively high-altitude city in Indonesia. It is located in the tropical region and experiences a tropical monsoon climate.

Temperature

The temperature in Surakarta remains relatively constant throughout the year, with warm and humid conditions prevailing. The city enjoys a year-round average temperature of around 26°C (79°F). However, there are slight variations in temperature between the dry and wet seasons.

The dry season in Surakarta lasts from May to September, during which the city experiences slightly higher temperatures. The average temperature during this period ranges from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). The wet season, on the other hand, lasts from October to April, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F).

It is worth noting that Surakarta's higher altitude contributes to slightly cooler temperatures compared to other low-lying areas in Indonesia.

Rainfall

Surakarta has a distinct wet and dry season pattern, making it a monsoonal climate. The city receives the majority of its rainfall during the wet season, which lasts from October to April. The wettest months are typically in December and January, with an average precipitation of around 300mm (12 inches) per month.

During the dry season, Surakarta experiences significantly less rainfall, with precipitation averaging around 50mm (2 inches) per month. The driest months are usually in September and October.

The rainfall in Surakarta is influenced by the monsoon winds, with the southwest monsoon (May to September) bringing drier weather and the northeast monsoon (October to April) bringing heavier rainfall.

Humidity

Surakarta has a high level of humidity throughout the year, which is characteristic of its tropical climate. Humidity levels typically range from 70% to 90% on average. The highest humidity is usually experienced during the wet season.

Wind Patterns

The wind patterns in Surakarta are influenced by the monsoon seasons. During the southwest monsoon, the prevailing winds blow from the southeast, while during the northeast monsoon, the winds shift to come from the northwest.

It is important to note that Surakarta is located inland, which means that it is shielded from the direct impact of coastal winds. As a result, the wind speeds in the city are generally lower compared to coastal areas.

Climate Summary

Surakarta's climate can be summarized as a tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures, high humidity, distinct wet and dry seasons, and relatively constant temperatures throughout the year.

The table below provides a summary of the average monthly temperature and rainfall in Surakarta:

Source: Local climate data

Best Time to Visit Surakarta

The best time to visit Surakarta largely depends on personal preferences and the type of activities planned. However, many tourists prefer to visit during the dry season, which falls between May and September. During this time, the weather is generally drier and more suitable for outdoor exploration.

It is important to note that Surakarta's cultural festivals and events often take place throughout the year, providing visitors with unique experiences regardless of the season.

Conclusion

Surakarta, Indonesia, experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The city's altitude contributes to slightly cooler temperatures compared to other low-lying areas in the country. The wet season, from October to April, brings heavy rainfall, while the dry season, from May to September, offers drier weather. Understanding the climate of Surakarta helps in planning activities and choosing the best time to visit this culturally rich city.