The month of
May ushers in an intense summer in
Massawa with temperatures reaching 36.8°C (98.2°F). Despite the prevailing high temperatures, the spread of rainfall remains minimal, showcasing clear skies most days. The number of rainy days falls to a half compared to
April, complementing the 12.9 hours of daylight perfectly. Beach visits are irresistible in May, with the sea temperature hitting 29.7°C (85.5°F). Practicing caution while outdoors is advisable as May brings extremely high UV levels.
Temperature
Shifting into May, Massawa records an average high-temperature of a torrid 36.8°C (98.2°F), presenting minor fluctuations compared to the previous month. Massawa observes a noteworthy temperature drop from the daily highs during May nights, with a mean temperature of 23.5°C (74.3°F).
Heat index
May's average heat index is calculated to be a blazing hot 54°C (129.2°F).
Keep alert: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are probable. Heatstroke is a potential danger with continued physical activity.
When assessing, remember that heat index measurements are for light winds and shaded spots. Direct sunlight exposure may result in a rise of the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'real feel', is a measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity into a single value that indicates how hot the weather feels. A person's impression of weather can be shaped by several aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and levels of physical activity. Direct sun rays can make one feel hotter, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values remain especially vital for babies and toddlers. Young ones regularly neglect the requirement for rest and fluid replenishment. Thirst is a late stage of dehydration - so, it is necessary to keep hydrated, particularly during extended periods of physical exertion.
Through perspiration, the body has a natural mechanism to eliminate excessive heat via sweat evaporation. When the relative humidity is high, the evaporation rate is reduced. The warmth is removed from the body at a lower rate, causing the body to retain more heat than it would in dry air. Heat disorders may be on the horizon when body temperatures rise from inadequate heat management.
Humidity
In May, the average relative humidity is 65%.
Rainfall
In Massawa, in May, it is raining for 0.6 days, with typically 8mm (0.31") of accumulated precipitation. In Massawa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 15.1 days and collects up to 183mm (7.2") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Massawa, in May, the average water temperature is 29.7°C (85.5°F).
Note: Surface water temperatures falling between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are regarded as prime and extremely agreeable for enduring periods during any water activity.
Daylight
In May, the average length of the day is 12h and 52min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:58 and sunset at 18:40. On the last day of May, in Massawa, sunrise is at 05:50 and sunset at 18:49 EAT.
Sunshine
April and May, with an average of 10h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index in Massawa are
March through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index value of 11, and more, symbolizes an excessive health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: During May, 12 as the daily maximum UV index converts into the following advice:
Enforce all necessary precautions, unprotected skin might burn swiftly. Remember that the sun's UV radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make an effort to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours. Enhance your sun protection with tightly woven, yet airy clothing. Frequent application of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is crucial, reapply it every two hours or immediately post swimming or outdoor exercise. Caution! The mirror effect of sand and water ups the UV radiation strength.