May ushers in
Taitung County's early summer weather with unmistakably warmer temperatures. It exhibits a notable departure from the spring weather experienced in
April. With the rise in temperatures, rainfall levels amplify drastically reaching 157mm (6.18"). The increase in the number of daylight hours continues into May, as do hours of bright sunshine. The weather standout in May, Taitung County falls in the considerable shift from the spring downpour to early summer.
Temperature
May's arrival registers an average high-temperature of a still warm 29.8°C (85.6°F), closely aligning with the temperature of the previous month. Throughout May, Taitung County's nights cool down to an average of 23.4°C (74.1°F).
Heat index
The average heat index in May is estimated at a sweltering 37°C (98.6°F). Ensure extra safety measures, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are likely. Continuous activity might result in heatstroke.
When referencing the heat index, its values are suitable for shady environments and light breezes. Being under direct sunlight might amplify the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', is achieved by amalgamating air temperature with the relative humidity readings. 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. Should you be directly under the sun, anticipate a possible increase in the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to babies and toddlers. Children frequently do not comprehend the need for rest and hydration. Thirst is an advanced stage of dehydration - staying hydrated, especially during extended physical exercises, is essential.
Perspiration is the human body's physiological response to high temperatures and is an attempt to lower body temperature through evaporation of sweat. 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-related complications, like dehydration, can manifest if the body's heat gain exceeds its dissipation capacity.
Humidity
In May, the average relative humidity is 78.6%.
Rainfall
In Taitung County,
Taiwan, during May, the rain falls for 14.1 days and regularly aggregates up to 157mm (6.18") of precipitation. In Taitung County, Taiwan, during the entire year, the rain falls for 124.9 days and collects up to 1856mm (73.07") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Taitung County, Taiwan, in May, the average water temperature is 28°C (82.4°F).
Note: In water activities such as swimming and diving, temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are deemed highly pleasurable for extended periods without any unease.
Daylight
In Taitung County, the average length of the day in May is 13h and 14min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:22 and sunset at 18:22. On the last day of May, sunrise is at 05:10 and sunset at 18:36 CST.
Sunshine
In May, the average sunshine is 4.6h.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index in Taitung County are April through
August, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index of 11, and more, symbolizes an ultimate health vulnerability from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: In May, a daily UV index of 12 turns into the following recommendations:
Ensure all key precautions. Defense against sun exposure is critical. The Sun's UV radiation is most powerful between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To the extent possible, limit exposure to the direct sun during these hours. Prioritize a wide-brim hat for comprehensive sun defense for your face, neck, eyes, and ears. Directly after swimming or an outdoor workout, generously apply and reapply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Warning! Sand and water reflections boost the intensity of UV exposure.