May weather forecast
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

The onset of the rainy season defines May, with a significant upturn in humidity and a remarkable increase in rainfall reaching 71mm (2.8"). Temperatures remain steady with April, but the nights become warmer. Concurrently, daylight time peaks, matching the longest days of the year. Even with the increased clouds and rain, sunshine hours remain surprisingly steady. The city's weather, at this point, has completely transitioned from the dry season.

Temperature

May brings a marginal elevation to a still fiery hot 37.3°C (99.1°F) from April's 39.1°C (102.4°F) in Ouagadougou's average high-temperatures. Throughout May, the temperature in Ouagadougou falls to an average low of 25.5°C (77.9°F).

Heat index

The heat index value for May is computed to be a blazing hot 48°C (118.4°F). Guard: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are foreseeable. Prolonged effort may bring about heatstroke.
It is worth noting that heat index values are gauged for conditions in the shade and light breezes. When exposed to the direct sun, the heat index may augment by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', is a measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity into a single value that indicates how hot the weather feels. This effect is subjective, differing among individuals based on their physical activity and perception of heat, which can be influenced by factors like wind, clothing, and metabolic variances. Consider the sun's direct rays and their impact; they can potentially increase the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are primarily vital for children. Children often overlook the necessity for resting and fluid replenishment. Thirst is a late sign of dehydration - thus, it is critical to stay hydrated, especially during extended periods of physical activities.
Perspiring is how the human body naturally cools down, as sweat's evaporation takes away excess heat. When there is abundant moisture in the air, the body's cooling through the evaporation process becomes less effective, leading to the sensation of overheating. When body temperature rises due to an imbalance in heat gain, there's a potential for dehydration and overheating.

Humidity

In May, the average relative humidity in Ouagadougou is 52.5%.

Rainfall

In May, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, the rain falls for 3.3 days. Throughout May, 71mm (2.8") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, in Ouagadougou, there are 35.2 rainfall days, and 788mm (31.02") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

The average length of the day in May is 12h and 42min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:45 and sunset at 18:20. On the last day of May, in Ouagadougou, sunrise is at 05:39 and sunset at 18:27 GMT.

Sunshine

The months with the most sunshine are January through March, May, October and November, with an average of 9h of sunshine.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are February through September, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an excessive health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index of 12 during May translates into these guidelines:
Utilize all necessary safety measures, unprotected skin could suffer burns instantly. 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. Sun protection is enhanced with clothing that boasts a tight weave yet offers a loose fit. Directly after outdoor activities or swimming, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ should be applied generously and reapplied frequently.