Asia summer climate preview 2025

• Singapore’s hottest recorded day was 36.8°C (98°F) on April 1, 2022. The coldest night was 20.4°C (68°F) on February 20, 2022.
• Thailand’s temperatures soared in April, where 45.4°C (113°F) was recorded in Tak province. Summer storms will likely bring thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall.
• Malaysia experienced its hottest July ever in 2024, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C (93°F). The La Niña phenomenon also led to significant flooding events.
• India’s ongoing 2025 heat wave has seen temperatures in Rajasthan reach 46.4°C (115°F) on April 8. This heat wave arrived earlier than usual and has caused widespread concerns.
• Hong Kong’s summer of 2023 was the hottest on record, with an average temperature of 29.7°C (85°F) in August. The city also experienced an increase in very hot days (above 33°C or 91°F) and extremely hot days (above 35°C or 95°F).
• South Korea’s summer of 2022 saw record-breaking rainfall, especially over Seoul in August. The country also experienced its longest monsoon in seven years in 2020.

The summer of 2025 is nigh, and Asia's commercial property sector, as usual, is bracing for significant climate challenges. From intense heatwaves to heavy monsoon rains, the region's diverse climates will test the resilience of its buildings and infrastructure. Here’s FM’s detailed preview of what to expect, with a particular focus on these key regions: India, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Hong Kong and Malaysia.

April: Sunshine and rain

India began the summer with early and intense heatwaves, with ominous predictions of “survivability limits”, and “Death Valley levels”. Temperatures were expected to soar up to 49°C (120°F) in parts of the country. This extreme heat poses a serious threat to commercial properties, particularly those without adequate cooling systems. Energy supplies will be strained, and the risk of power outages increases, impacting businesses and their operations. Property managers must prioritize energy efficiency and cooling solutions to mitigate these effects.

In Thailand, the early monsoon rains were predicted to bring an increased risk of flooding. Summer thunderstorms, accompanied by gusty winds and hail, may cause property damage. Commercial buildings, especially those in flood-prone areas, need robust infrastructure and emergency preparedness plans to withstand these weather events.

Singapore faced rising temperatures and an increased risk of flooding due to early monsoon rains. The city-state's dense urban landscape makes it particularly susceptible to flash floods, which can disrupt business activities and damage commercial properties. Enhancing drainage systems and flood management will be crucial for property owners to protect their investments.

May: Mercury rising and monsoon onset

South Korea is predicted to experience rising temperatures that exacerbate urban heat island (UHI) effects, particularly in cities like Seoul (The idea being that cities are hotter than the countryside because buildings, roads, and other surfaces trap heat). The country is expected to have an early spring and prolonged summer, which could lead to increased energy consumption and stress on commercial properties. Implementing green building practices and improving insulation will be key to managing these impacts.

In India, signs point to the heatwaves continuing, with the onset of the monsoon season bringing potential flooding and landslides. Commercial properties in regions prone to these events must invest in flood defenses and resilient infrastructure to minimize disruptions and protect their assets.

Hong Kong faces unique challenges with its dense urban environment and coastal location. The city is expected to experience heavy rains and potential flooding during the summer months. Commercial properties, particularly those in low-lying areas, must enhance their flood defenses and drainage systems to protect against water damage. Additionally, the high humidity and heat can strain cooling systems, necessitating energy-efficient solutions to maintain comfortable indoor environments.

June: Heavy rains and flooding

Malaysia faces an increased frequency of heavy rainfall and flooding, affecting urban areas and infrastructure. Commercial properties in flood-prone areas need to enhance their flood management strategies and invest in resilient infrastructure to protect against water damage.

In India, experts are saying the monsoon season rolls on with its dual threats of heatwaves and flooding. The combination of extreme heat and heavy rains can lead to severe waterlogging and health issues. Property managers must ensure their buildings are equipped to handle these conditions and maintain business continuity.

Hong Kong likely continues to face heavy rains and potential flooding. The city's commercial properties must be prepared for these events with robust flood defenses and drainage systems. The high humidity and heat can also strain cooling systems, necessitating energy-efficient solutions to maintain controlled indoor environments.

July: Heatwaves and drought

South Korea is predicted to grapple with severe heatwaves and drought conditions, potentially impacting agriculture and water supplies. Commercial properties, particularly those reliant on water-intensive processes, should adopt water-saving technologies and practices to cope with these challenges.

Thailand may experience heavy rains and flooding, affecting urban areas and infrastructure. Commercial properties need to be prepared for these events with robust flood defenses and emergency response plans to minimize damage and ensure business continuity.

August: Persistent rains and flooding

Singapore’s forecast continues to point to persistent heavy rains and flooding, affecting urban areas and infrastructure. Property owners must enhance their drainage systems and flood management strategies to protect their investments and maintain business operations.

Malaysia’s continued heavy rains and flooding are expected, affecting urban areas and infrastructure. Commercial properties must invest in resilient infrastructure and effective flood management to minimize disruptions and protect their assets.

Conclusion: Preparing for a challenging summer

The summer of 2025 in Asia is set to be a season of significant climate challenges for the commercial property sector. From the intense heatwaves in India to the heavy rains and flooding in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia, and the rising temperatures and drought conditions in South Korea, the region's diverse climates will test the resilience of its buildings and infrastructure.

Efforts to enhance infrastructure, improve disaster management, and promote sustainable building practices will be essential in navigating these challenges. As Asia prepares for the summer, the focus must be on building resilience and adapting to the changing climate to protect commercial properties and ensure business continuity.