The charm of
Chiang Rai in
May lies in its mixed-interlude of sunshine and rainfall. The city experiences its hottest month, welcoming frequent downpours, marking a transition into the rainy season. These intermittent showers are a refreshing contrast to the high humidity levels. Though sunlight is slightly less in comparison to previous months, it perfectly blends with showers, painting a vibrant picture of the city. May in Chiang Rai is a time when nature flourishes and the city’s greenery is at its peak.
Temperature
In Chiang Rai, May's average high-temperature stands at a still tropical 33.1°C (91.6°F), closely related to the preceding month. During the nights in May, the temperature averages to a pleasant 22.5°C (72.5°F).
Heat index
May's mean heat index is estimated at a blazing hot 47°C (116.6°F).
Remain alert: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are predicted. Extended effort can lead to heatstroke.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. Under direct sunshine, the heat index values might be elevated by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', takes into account both air temperature and humidity to illustrate what people actually feel. The influence of weather is personal, differing among individuals based on variations in body mass, stature, and the degree of physical exertion. It is essential to realize that direct sunlight can escalate the perceived temperature, increasing 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.
The body's innate mechanism to counteract overheating is through perspiration, as it leverages the cooling effects of sweat evaporation. In situations of high air temperature combined with high humidity (significant heat index), the body's ability to perspire is reduced, heightening the sense of warmth. When the body's heat gain surpasses its removal capacity, body temperature starts to climb, leading to potential heat-related ailments.
Humidity
In May, the average relative humidity is 76%.
Rainfall
In May, in Chiang Rai, the rain falls for 17 days. Throughout May, 213mm (8.39") of precipitation is accumulated. In Chiang Rai, during the entire year, the rain falls for 137 days and collects up to 1691mm (66.57") of precipitation.
Daylight
The average length of the day in May is 13h and 5min.
On the first day of May in Chiang Rai, sunrise is at 05:51 and sunset at 18:44. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:40 and sunset at 18:55 +07.
Sunshine
In Chiang Rai, the average sunshine in May is 7h.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index are
March through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: The daily maximum UV index of 12 in May interprets into the following advice:
Implement all necessary safeguards, unprotected skin might suffer burns rapidly. Avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a period when UV radiation is most intense, and remember that not all shade structures provide full protection. A hat with a broad brim is indispensable, filtering out up to half of UV rays. Regularly apply and reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 every two hours, or straight after swimming or an outdoor activity.