May marks the official commencement of the wet season in
Havana. Even though the temperatures head upwards, touching the average high of 29.8°C (85.6°F), occasional showers and cloud cover offer relief. Sea temperatures reach 27.7°C (81.9°F), perfect for refreshing dips, while temperatures on land encourage exploration of shaded, cultural sites. Due to elevated humidity levels and rainfall, the city stirs into a lush green landscape by the end of May. Notably, it tolerates the highest rainfall until this period of the year.
Temperature
The ushering in of May in Havana brings an average high-temperature of a still warm 29.8°C (85.6°F), closely mirroring the 28.6°C (83.5°F) of
April. In May, the temperature drops to an average of 22.4°C (72.3°F) at night.
Heat index
The average heat index in May is appraised at a very hot 36°C (96.8°F). Implement enhanced safety actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion could occur. Sustained activity might result in heatstroke.
For clarity, heat index numbers account for light winds and areas under shade. The heat index has the possibility to be enhanced by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees when there is direct sun exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', is a value derived by merging air temperature with the humidity to convey how the climate feels. The experience of temperature can be subjective, varying based on the individual's activity and heat perception, influenced by factors like wind, attire, and metabolic variations. When exposed to direct sunlight, it's possible for the heat index to increase by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values hold particular importance for children. Children usually face more risks than adults as their ability to sweat is less. Additionally, their larger skin surface in relation to their petite bodies and higher heat output due to their activities increases their vulnerability.
When it comes to cooling down, the human body's primary method is through perspiration, making use of sweat evaporation to eliminate excess heat. With an abundance of moisture present in the air, the process of evaporation becomes less effective, and the body fails to cool down as it should, leading to the sensation of overheating. Excessive heat gain, when not shed effectively by the body, can result in increasing body temperatures and related hazards.
Humidity
In May, the average relative humidity in Havana,
Cuba, is 75%.
Rainfall
In Havana, in May, it is raining for 6 days, with typically 98mm (3.86") of accumulated precipitation. In Havana, Cuba, during the entire year, the rain falls for 80 days and collects up to 1189mm (46.81") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Havana, the average seawater temperature in May is 27.7°C (81.9°F).
Note: Water temperature from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) is considered very warm, making water activities enjoyable for prolonged periods without any uncomfortable sensations.
Daylight
In Havana, the average length of the day in May is 13h and 16min.
On the first day of May in Havana, sunrise is at 06:55 and sunset at 19:57. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:43 and sunset at 20:11 CDT.
Sunshine
In May, the average sunshine is 9h.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index are April through
June, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index value of 11, and more, symbolizes an extreme threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: In May, the average maximum UV index of 12 translates into the following recommendations:
Enforce every vital precaution. Those with light skin could endure burns in a matter of minutes. Seek shade and limit direct Sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak, but be aware that not all shade structures provide complete sun protection. For optimum UV protection, wear sun-resistant attire complemented with a hat and quality shades. Post an outdoor workout or swimming, a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen should be applied generously and frequently. Heed this! UV intensity is much stronger when reflected off sand and water.