Singapore saw a big swing in temperatures over the weekend, with the island recording a joint-highest September temperature of 35.8°C before temperatures fell below 25°C the following day.
On 26 September, the temperature at Woodlands Avenue 9 Climate Station reached 35.8°C at 3.27pm, matching Singapore’s highest recorded daily maximum temperature for September. The previous record was 35.8°C recorded at Sembawang Road on 30 September 2016.
The reading was the highest September temperature since the Meteorological Service Singapore began temperature records in 1929, excluding a break in records from 1941 to 1947 during World War II.
Cooler Weather After Record Heat
A day after the record-equalling heat, temperatures dropped in parts of Singapore, with some locations recording readings below 25°C.
The cooler conditions followed a period of warmer weather in September. The National Environment Agency (NEA) had earlier forecast that the second half of the month would continue to be warm, with daily maximum temperatures of around 33°C and above expected on some days.
NEA data showed that the first half of September also experienced frequent hot days, with daily maximum temperatures exceeding 34°C on 12 occasions.
Why Temperatures Can Change Quickly
Singapore’s temperatures can vary significantly from day to day depending on factors such as rainfall, cloud cover and wind conditions.
Sunny weather with fewer clouds allows more solar heating, which can push afternoon temperatures higher. Rain and increased cloud cover can reduce daytime heating and bring cooler conditions.
Despite the recent drop, Singapore’s weather remains generally warm and humid throughout the year, with September’s long-term average daily maximum temperature at 31.6°C based on the 1991 to 2020 climate reference period.
September Heat Record Still Stands
The 35.8°C reading did not break Singapore’s all-time temperature record. The highest daily maximum temperature recorded nationwide remains 37.0°C, recorded at Tengah Meteorological Station on 17 April 1983.
