If you spend Christmas in Johor Bahru, you’ll trade snow and cold for warmth and tropical skies. In late December, daytime highs usually reach close to 30°C (mid-80s °F), and humid nights stick around 22–24°C (low to mid-70s °F).
The air feels heavy and warm. Rain showers show up often, but they usually come in quick bursts instead of dragging on all day.
December brings some of the wettest weather you’ll see all year, with rainfall totals higher than most other months. You’ll notice plenty of clouds, but the sun still manages to break through, letting you get outside between showers.
The sea stays warm, so coastal trips and island outings still feel inviting, even during the rainy season.
You’ll want to know what to expect before you go. Whether you’re exploring cultural spots, checking out festive events, or just relaxing by the water, understanding December’s heat, humidity, and rain will help you make the most of your Christmas in Johor Bahru.
Overview of Christmas Weather in Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru brings warm temperatures, high humidity, and frequent rainfall during Christmas. Even with all the rain, it’s still a good time for sightseeing, shopping, and indoor celebrations.
Typical December Climate
December falls in the rainy season, so you should expect wet conditions. Daytime highs climb to 29–31°C (84–88°F), and nights cool off a bit to 23–25°C (73–77°F).
Humidity hovers around 85–90%, making the air feel warmer and heavier. Rainfall averages 300–320 mm for December, and you’ll see showers on more than half the days.
Even with all the rain, you still get quick bursts of sunshine. You’ll see about 120–140 hours of sun during December. Those bright spells don’t last long, but they’re a nice break from the clouds.
Weather Patterns During the Holiday Season
Christmas week doesn’t really differ from the rest of December. You’ll likely see afternoon downpours and evening showers, which are pretty typical across Johor and southern Malaysia this time of year.
Rain comes in short bursts, not endless drizzles, so you can still plan morning or late evening activities when the weather calms down. Indoor spots like shopping malls and cultural sites get popular on rainy days.
Cloud cover stays high, and the sky is usually overcast. That cuts down on sunshine, but it does keep daytime heat from getting too intense.
You’ll still want light clothing, but don’t forget a poncho or umbrella—you’ll probably need one.
Comparison to Other Months
December is wetter and more humid than February, July, or August. If you want the driest and most comfortable weather, those months are usually your best bet.
It’s a little cooler in December compared to May or June, when daytime highs can go past 32°C (90°F). All the rain in December keeps the extreme heat at bay, but it does crank up the humidity.
If you look at November and December, rainfall is pretty similar, but Christmas tends to bring steadier showers. By January, the rain starts to ease, though it stays warm and humid across southern Malaysia and most of Southeast Asia.
Average Temperature and Temperature Ranges
In December, Johor Bahru gives you steady warmth with barely any difference between day and night. Temperatures stay high but rarely get extreme, so you can plan outdoor activities as long as you keep the humidity and rain in mind.
Daytime Temperatures in December
Daytime temperatures usually sit between 29°C and 31°C (84°F to 88°F). Afternoons feel warm, but not much hotter than other times of the year.
The air feels humid, so it can seem warmer than the number on the thermometer. Clouds show up a lot, but they don’t cool things down much.
April gets hotter, with peaks near 32°C, so December feels a bit milder. It’s a small difference, but if you’re outside for hours, you’ll notice.
If you want to go sightseeing or take walking tours, try to do them early or closer to sunset. That way, you skip the worst of the heat and humidity.
Nighttime Temperatures Around Christmas
At night, Johor Bahru only cools a little. Average lows in December fall between 23°C to 24°C (73°F to 75°F). So, evenings stay warm and you won’t need anything heavy to wear.
Humidity stays high after sunset, so the air can feel sticky even when it cools down. Light, airy clothes are your friend.
The day-to-night temperature dip is small, making the climate pretty stable. Late dinners outside or evening walks are easy—you don’t have to worry about sudden chills.
January nights can drop a bit closer to 24°C, but Christmas week feels almost identical. The change is so minor, it probably won’t affect your plans.
Temperature Fluctuations and Extremes
Johor Bahru doesn’t swing wildly in temperature in December. The daily range sits around 5°C to 7°C (9°F to 12°F) from highs to lows. That’s pretty normal for a tropical rainforest climate.
Extreme heat above 33°C (91°F) almost never happens in December. You also won’t see temperatures dip below 22°C (72°F). This predictability makes packing and planning a lot simpler.
Heavy rain can make it feel cooler for a bit, but humidity bounces back quickly, so the relief doesn’t last.
With this kind of steady climate, you can count on similar weather throughout the Christmas period. That reliability is just part of Johor Bahru’s charm.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Johor Bahru has a tropical rainforest climate, so you get high humidity and frequent rain all year. December ranks as one of the wetter months, with heavy showers and more rainy days compared to the drier seasons.
Monthly Precipitation in December
The northeast monsoon hits southern Malaysia in December, keeping rainfall levels high. You’ll see around 250–300 mm of precipitation this month, making December one of the wetter times of year, though not the very wettest.
Rain usually arrives in short, intense downpours, mostly in the afternoon or evening. These showers come on strong but often leave behind clear skies.
On average, December brings 15–18 rainy days. That’s about half the month with measurable rain. It might sound like a lot, but the rain spreads out and rarely lasts all day.
If you want to get outside, mornings are usually more stable. Bring an umbrella or light rain jacket—sudden showers are just part of the deal.
Annual Precipitation Trends
Johor Bahru gets about 2,600–2,700 mm of rainfall each year, which is a lot compared to most cities. Rain falls year-round, but you’ll see clear peaks during the monsoon seasons.
November is usually the wettest month, averaging over 330 mm. February is the driest, with just about 140–150 mm. The monsoon cycle really shapes how the rain comes and goes.
Here’s a quick look at monthly averages:
| Month | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| November | ~336 | ~21 |
| December | ~250–300 | ~15–18 |
| February | ~148 | ~11 |
All this steady rain keeps the city green, but it means you should expect wet weather almost any time of year.
Rainy Days During Christmas Week
During Christmas week, you’ll see frequent showers. Data shows it’ll probably rain on several days, with daily chances between 40–60%.
Rain pops up in bursts, not endless storms. You might get an hour of heavy rain, then it’s back to dry, humid air. So, you can still enjoy both indoor and outdoor plans if you keep an eye on the weather.
Daytime temperatures stick around 30–31°C, even when it rains. Nights stay warm at about 24–25°C. The mix of high humidity and rain makes the air feel extra heavy, so go for light clothing.
If you’re visiting for the holidays, keep your plans flexible. Most people head out in late mornings or evenings, since rain is most common in the mid to late afternoon.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Late December in Johor Bahru means very high humidity, which really shapes how the heat feels and how you handle outdoor activities. The air holds so much moisture that temperatures feel hotter than what the thermometer says.
Relative Humidity in December
December ranks as one of the most humid months in Johor Bahru. Average relative humidity hits about 87%, which is up there with the highest levels all year. The air gets so saturated with moisture that sweat just doesn’t evaporate well, making it hard for your body to cool down.
Even though daytime highs usually hover near 30–31°C (86–88°F), the humidity makes it feel hotter. Nights don’t bring much relief either, since the moisture barely drops after sunset.
Johor Bahru’s spot near the equator and its rainforest climate keep humidity levels steady. There’s no real “dry” season, so December always feels damp, whether it’s raining or not.
| Month | Avg. Relative Humidity |
|---|---|
| February | ~83% |
| December | ~87% |
| Yearly Average | ~84% |
Impact of Humidity on Outdoor Activities
High humidity in December changes how you approach time outside. Activities like walking, shopping, or sightseeing feel more tiring because your body works harder to cool off. Even light exercise can seem tougher than usual.
If you want to check out outdoor attractions, try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s a bit cooler. Bring water and wear light, breathable clothes to stay comfortable.
Air-conditioned places like malls or cafes offer a break during the muggiest parts of the day. At the beach or in nature, the air feels heavy, so you’ll probably want to take more breaks.
Humidity also affects how you notice rain. Even when the sky clears, the air stays sticky. After showers, the dampness lingers, so clothes and gear dry slowly.
Sunshine Hours and UV Index
Johor Bahru sits near the equator, so daylight hours barely change through the year. Around Christmas, you’ll see moderate sunshine and a consistently high UV index, so you’ll want to keep that in mind if you’re outside.
Daily Sunshine During Christmas
Johor Bahru gets about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day in December. That’s less than the sunniest months, but still plenty of daylight for sightseeing or outdoor fun.
Rain is common, which cuts down on clear hours. Still, showers usually come in bursts, so you can catch sunny breaks between the clouds.
March averages around 6.5 hours of sunshine, so December isn’t far off. November is cloudier, with about 4.3 hours daily, which puts Christmas right in the middle.
If you want to be outside, late morning or early afternoon is usually your best bet for sunshine. Just remember, the humidity makes the sun feel stronger than the numbers suggest.
UV Index Considerations
The UV index in Johor Bahru stays high year-round. It often hits levels of 10 or even higher at midday.
Around Christmas, you’ll likely see similar readings, even if clouds cover the sky.
A high UV index means skin damage can happen fast if you skip protection. Grab some broad-spectrum sunscreen, toss on a hat, and don’t forget your sunglasses to keep the risk down.
UV levels usually peak between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you’re heading outdoors during those hours, try to limit direct sun when you can.
Shade and lightweight clothes help a lot.
Clouds don’t block all the UV, so rays still get through on overcast days. That makes sun safety just as important in December as it is when the sun blazes.
Practical Tips for Travelers Visiting at Christmas
Rain falls often in Johor Bahru during December. Still, the warm days let you enjoy sightseeing and cultural stuff.
If you pack smart, time your outings, and plan your arrival through Senai International Airport, you’ll avoid a lot of hassle.
What to Pack for the Weather
Johor Bahru’s tropical climate means daytime highs around 30°C and plenty of humidity. December brings some of the year’s heaviest rain.
You’ll want light, breathable clothes to stay cool. But don’t forget things to keep you dry when those sudden showers pop up.
Pack light cotton shirts, shorts, and sandals for most days. Tuck a compact umbrella or lightweight raincoat in your bag for afternoon storms.
A pair of comfortable walking shoes comes in handy if the streets get slick after rain.
Humidity might make you sweat more than you expect, so toss in extra changes of clothes and maybe a small towel for outdoor adventures.
If you’re planning to visit temples or join festive events, bring a couple of modest outfits that cover your shoulders and knees.
Best Times for Outdoor Activities
Rain hits hardest in December, mostly in the afternoons and evenings. If you want to dodge the worst of it, plan your outdoor activities for the early morning hours when it’s a bit cooler and clearer.
Markets, gardens, and walking tours really shine before 11 a.m. By midday, humidity climbs and showers get more likely.
Thinking of visiting the Desaru Coast or nearby parks? Start early and have some indoor plans in your back pocket, just in case.
Evenings in Johor Bahru stay lively, but heavy rain can slow traffic. If you’re aiming for the night markets or outdoor dining, check the forecast and carry an umbrella.
Short rain bursts are common, but honestly, they usually don’t last long.
Traveling via Senai International Airport
Senai International Airport serves Johor Bahru and sits about 30 kilometers from the city center. The ride takes anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.
Rain in December can slow things down, so leave yourself extra time for the drive.
You can get to the city by airport taxi, private transfer, or bus services. Taxis are the quickest, while buses cost less but run less often.
Ride-hailing apps work from the airport too, so you’ve got options.
If you’re flying in near Christmas, expect more travelers than usual. Book your flights and transfers ahead of time to dodge delays.
Rainstorms may lead to short flight delays, so give yourself a buffer when planning connections.
Historical Weather Data and Climate Insights
Johor Bahru has a tropical rainforest climate. It stays warm and sees frequent rain, pretty much all year.
Historical records show the temperature barely changes through the year. Rainfall and humidity, though, often shift in December, which can shape your Christmas trip.
Long-Term Climate Trends in Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru’s climate stays hot and humid year-round. Average daily temperatures usually range from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F), with daytime highs often reaching 30°C to 31°C (86°F to 88°F) in December.
Nights stay warm too, rarely dropping below 23°C (73°F).
Rain plays a big role here. Historical data shows December sits in the wetter period. On average, Johor Bahru gets 200–250 mm of rainfall in December, spread out over many days.
You’ll see short, heavy showers often, but they tend to move on quickly.
Humidity stays high, usually above 80%, so the air feels warmer than the thermometer says.
You might get fewer sunshine hours than mid-year, but there’s still enough daylight for outdoor fun.
How Christmas Weather Has Varied Over the Years
If you look back at past Christmas periods, you’ll notice Johor Bahru usually feels warm, with just minor changes from year to year. Daytime highs stick around the 30°C range. Nights? They tend to settle in the mid-20s Celsius.
Rainfall, though, tends to shake things up. Some years, heavy showers roll in near Christmas, with totals topping 250 mm. Other years, you might get off easier, with rainfall closer to 150 mm. Still, a completely dry holiday week hardly ever happens.
Humidity shifts a bit too, but you’ll almost always find it high. That sticky feeling? It really kicks in after midday rain, making outdoor activities a bit less comfortable.
If you’re traveling, you’ll probably notice the main change isn’t really the temperature. Instead, it’s the timing and intensity of rainfall that stand out. It helps to plan flexible outdoor activities and keep a few indoor ideas in your back pocket, just in case.