Bangkok,
Thailand goes through considerable meteorological changes during
May. This period witnesses a massive surge in rainfall, reaching up to 248mm, spread across a significant 16 days, marking the real onset of the monsoon season. The city, despite the decline in temperature, continues to experience high warmth, hinting at the tropical climate of Thailand. On the other hand, increased cloud cover results in reduced sunshine duration. Residents eagerly anticipate drier weather conditions as the significant rainfall continues into
June.
Temperature
Bangkok's average high-temperature in May sits at a hot 34.4°C, showing little difference from the previous month. Nightly temperatures in Bangkok drop to an average low of 26.3°C in May.
Heat index
For May, the heat index is computed to be a life-threatening hot 51°C.
Keep wary: Heat cramps along with heat exhaustion are expected. Heatstroke is a possible outcome of ongoing 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 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', is an aggregate value of air's warmth and moisture to show the human-felt temperature. This effect is personal, influenced by the individual's physical activity and heat sensitivity, shaped by factors including wind, attire, and metabolic variations. Being aware that direct sunlight can impact the felt heat might mean an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Young individuals are generally in more danger than adults due to their lower capacity to sweat. Moreover, their large skin surface in relation to their small bodies and the increased heat generation from their activities makes them more vulnerable.
To offset high temperatures, the human body releases sweat which, upon evaporation, cools it down. In conditions of both high temperature and humidity (a high heat index), sweating is limited and the perception of heat is enhanced. Overheating risks increase with rising body temperatures, especially if heat release isn't efficient.
Humidity
In May, the average relative humidity is 75%.
Rainfall
In May, the rain falls for 16 days. Throughout May, 248mm of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, in Bangkok, there are 128 rainfall days, and 1648mm of precipitation is accumulated.
Sea temperature
The month with the warmest seawater in Bangkok is May, with an average sea temperature of 29.9°C.
Note: For activities such as swimming and diving, temperatures between 25°C and 29°C are perceived as particularly pleasant and satisfying for prolonged periods without feeling uneasy.
Daylight
The average length of the day in May in Bangkok is 12h and 46min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:56 and sunset at 18:33. On the last day of May, in Bangkok, sunrise is at 05:49 and sunset at 18:41 +07.
Sunshine
In Bangkok, the average sunshine in May is 7h.
UV index
February through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme health hazard from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: In May, the average maximum UV index of 12 translates into the following recommendations:
Ensure every key safety measure. People with light skin might sustain burns in fewer than 5 minutes. UV radiation from the sun is at its strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to limit direct exposure during these hours. For effective sun eye protection, rely on sunglasses certified for UVA and UVB resistance. Use liberally and reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every two hours and right after outdoor activities or a swim. Attention! UV radiation is ramped up when reflecting off sand and water surfaces.