May weather forecast
Kolkata, India

May in Kolkata continues the trend of high temperatures and heightened levels of humidity. Despite the increasing discomfort due to the escalating heat, food lovers can relish the arrival of "mango season", making May an ideal time for mango tasting tours. Rainy intermissions become quite frequent as this month sees the onset of the pre-monsoon season. The city bracing for monsoon further sees rainfall surging to a notable high of 142mm (5.59").

Temperature

May, noted for its average high-temperature of 35.4°C (95.7°F) and an average low-temperature of 26°C (78.8°F), is considered the warmest month.

Heat index

The heat index value for May is evaluated at a life-threatening hot 52°C (125.6°F). Attention: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are quite likely. Heatstroke becomes a risk with continued exertion.
It is emphasized that the heat index's values are meant for shaded zones with mild winds. Facing direct sunlight may hike up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', determines the feeling of heat when you account for the relative humidity. The effect is personal, with varied weather perceptions among individuals due to differences in body mass, stature, and physical activity. Consider the fact that direct sun exposure can influence how hot one feels, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Children regularly disregard the necessity to rest and replenish fluids. Thirst is a late symptom of dehydration - thus, maintaining hydration, particularly during long-lasting physical activities, is essential.
The body's inherent cooling system operates through perspiration, wherein evaporating sweat offsets excessive heat. When relative humidity is on the rise, it curtails evaporation, thereby reducing the heat elimination from the body and causing the feeling of being excessively hot. Accumulating heat beyond the body's cooling measures leads to rising temperatures and potential ailments.

Humidity

In Kolkata, the average relative humidity in May is 70%.

Rainfall

In May, the rain falls for 8.7 days. Throughout May, 142mm (5.59") of precipitation is accumulated. In Kolkata, during the entire year, the rain falls for 101.5 days and collects up to 1800mm (70.87") of precipitation.

Daylight

The average length of the day in May is 13h and 13min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 5:03 am and sunset at 6:03 pm. On the last day of May, in Kolkata, sunrise is at 4:51 am and sunset at 6:16 pm IST.

Sunshine

In May, the average sunshine in Kolkata is 7.3h.

UV index

April through August, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index of 11, and more, symbolizes an ultimate health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: In May, the maximum UV index of 12 transforms into these recommendations:
Employ all crucial safeguards, unprotected skin could burn rapidly. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the Sun's UV radiation is at its peak. Limit your exposure to direct sunlight during these hours. Combat UV radiation's detrimental effects with sun-safe clothing and UV-blocking eyewear. After a swim or an outdoor workout, generously apply and reapply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.