May introduces the extreme summer heat to
Muscat,
Oman. The city witnesses a spike in temperatures, with the mercury touching an intense 39.5°C (103.1°F). This high temperature coupled with remarkably low precipitation makes May one of the hottest and driest months of the year. The scorching days and sweltering nights firmly establish the peak summertime in the city. As May draws to a close, the inhabitants brace themselves for the hottest month of the year -
June.
Temperature
May's onset in Muscat brings a subtle temperature rise, moving from a tropical 34.7°C (94.5°F) in
April to a fiery hot 39.5°C (103.1°F). In May, the recorded average low-temperature is a warm 29.1°C (84.4°F).
Heat index
Throughout May, the heat index is appraised at a life-threatening hot 48°C (118.4°F).
Beware: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are very likely. Heatstroke is imminent with prolonged activity.
Heat index data is primarily for areas with shade and subjected to light winds. The heat index values could be amplified by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', is the result of factoring in humidity to the air temperature, indicating perceived warmth. Factors including metabolic differences, physical activity, and clothing are additional elements that influence the individual's temperature experience. Sunshine, when direct, has the potential to intensify weather effects, leading to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to babies and toddlers. Youngsters typically face more danger than adults since they sweat less. Their larger skin surface compared to their small bodies and heightened heat production from their activities augment their vulnerability.
When faced with excessive heat, the human body begins to perspire, utilizing the cooling benefits of sweat evaporation. Under conditions of high temperature and humidity (enhanced heat index), sweat production is compromised, exacerbating the sensation of warmth. Heat-related disorders may develop if heat gain in the body overshadows its cooling capacity, leading to elevated temperatures.
Humidity
The least humid month in Muscat is May, with an average relative humidity of 42%.
Rainfall
During May, Muscat regularly aggregates up to 7mm (0.28") of precipitation. Throughout the year, in Muscat, 100mm (3.94") of rain is accumulated.
Sea temperature
In Muscat, in May, the average water temperature is 30°C (86°F).
Note: For many, when water temperatures rise above 30°C (86°F), the cooling pleasure of swimming diminishes.
Daylight
In Muscat, the average length of the day in May is 13h and 17min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:32 and sunset at 18:34. On the last day of May, in Muscat, Oman, sunrise is at 05:19 and sunset at 18:48 +04.
Sunshine
May has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 11.2h of sunshine.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index in Muscat are April through
August, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an ultimate health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: In May, the maximum UV index of 12 suggests this advice:
Adopt every precaution of necessity, unprotected skin and eyes may suffer burns instantly. Stay in the shade and limit sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most potent. Keep in mind that shade structures like parasols or canopies do not offer full protection. Counter UV radiation's ill effects with clothing designed for sun safety and UV-resistant eyewear. Even if the day is cloudy, sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 should be applied generously and reapplied often, particularly after swimming or outdoor exercise. Attention! The combination of sand and water reflections enhances UV ray intensity.