May is an indicator of the commencement of the dry season in
Nkhata Bay. It is less humid with a drop in minimum temperature to 17.9°C (64.2°F), marking the onset of comfortable weather. Rainfall numbers decrease substantially, signaling the area's transition from the monsoon to the dry season. The weather pattern changes significantly with the daylight hours dwindling and the sunshine hours increasing. Heat becomes less intense with a drop in the UV index.
Temperature
May in Nkhata Bay records an average high-temperature of a still warm 27.3°C (81.1°F), indicating a minor variation from the preceding month. Throughout the month of May, Nkhata Bay witnesses an average temperature of 17.9°C (64.2°F).
Heat index
For May, the heat index is evaluated at a tropical 31°C (87.8°F). Ongoing activity coupled with exposure often results in weariness and could induce heat cramps.
Know that the heat index computations account for shaded terrains and slight winds. The heat index may scale up by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sun exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'apparent temperature', integrates the air's temperature and its humidity to showcase the felt temperature by people. Factors such as metabolic variations, being pregnant, and physical activity can impact an individual's weather perception. When in direct sunlight, one should be cautious as it can raise the heat index by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely vital to babies and toddlers. 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.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in May in Nkhata Bay,
Malawi, is 81%.
Rainfall
In Nkhata Bay, during May, the rain falls for 10 days and regularly aggregates up to 134mm (5.28") of precipitation. In Nkhata Bay, during the entire year, the rain falls for 123 days and collects up to 1657mm (65.24") of precipitation.
Daylight
In May, the average length of the day is 11h and 35min.
On the first day of May in Nkhata Bay, sunrise is at 05:49 and sunset at 17:30. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:55 and sunset at 17:25 CAT.
Sunshine
The average sunshine in May in Nkhata Bay is 7.7h.
UV index
In Nkhata Bay, the average daily maximum UV index in May is 10. A UV Index reading of 8 to 10 represents a very high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index of 10 during May translates into these guidelines:
Ensure you act responsibly. Without precautions, skin and eyes can suffer. Stay out of direct sunlight and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest, but remember that shade devices may not offer full sun protection. For a sun-safe wardrobe, go for clothes that are tightly woven and generously sized. For best protection against the Sun, use a sunscreen with no less than 30 SPF. This helps prevent sunburn and negative effects on the immune system.