May weather forecast
Chiang Mai, Thailand

Transition into the rainy season begins in May. The temperatures see a slight dip from the scorching highs of April. An abrupt surge in rainfall characterises this month, with 162mm (6.38") falling over 14 days, signalling the end of the hot and dry spell. The days remain long with a consistent 13 hours of daylight. Visitors in May can expect a mix of warm and wet conditions in Chiang Mai.

Temperature

May's advent denotes a minor fluctuation in the average high-temperature to a tropical 34.2°C (93.6°F) from April's 36.5°C (97.7°F). During the nights in May, Chiang Mai observes an average low-temperature of 23.8°C (74.8°F).

Heat index

During May, the heat index is evaluated at a burning hot 48°C (118.4°F). Beware: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are very likely. Heatstroke is imminent with prolonged activity.
It is essential to grasp that the heat index's numbers are for shade and light wind settings. Direct sunlight might cause an increase of up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the heat index.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'felt air temperature', is what the temperature feels like to the human body when the air temperature is combined with the relative humidity. This impact is subjective, influenced by the person's physical activity and individual heat perception, affected by factors including wind, attire, and metabolic differences. Remember, direct sunlight exposure can heighten the heat impact and might increase the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are primarily vital for children. Young kids are often more at risk than adults as they tend to perspire less. Besides, their skin surface is larger relative to their small bodies, and their increased heat output from their active lifestyle compounds their risk.
To offset high temperatures, the human body releases sweat which, upon evaporation, cools it down. A surge in relative humidity can disrupt the body's normal cooling function by slowing evaporation, hence reducing the rate at which the body cools and intensifying the perception of heat. Heat disorders may be on the horizon when body temperatures rise from inadequate heat management.

Humidity

In Chiang Mai, the average relative humidity in May is 71%.

Rainfall

In Chiang Mai, in May, during 14 rainfall days, 162mm (6.38") of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, in Chiang Mai, there are 113 rainfall days, and 1131mm (44.53") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

In Chiang Mai, the average length of the day in May is 13h and 1min.
On the first day of May in Chiang Mai, Thailand, sunrise is at 05:56 and sunset at 18:46. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:46 and sunset at 18:57 +07.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in May in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 7h.

UV index

March through September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an ultimate health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: The maximum daily UV index of 12 in May converts into the following recommendations:
Carry out all important precautions, unprotected skin could get burns in no time. The Sun's UV radiation is at its strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Minimize direct exposure to the sun during this period. Counter UV radiation's ill effects with clothing designed for sun safety and UV-resistant eyewear. After a swim or an outdoor workout, generously apply and regularly reapply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even if the day is cloudy.