May hosts a drastic change in the weather pattern, with rains becoming a commonplace occurrence. From just 63mm (2.48") in
April, rainfall measures rise to 175mm (6.89"), a significant increase that marks the arrival of the monsoon season. As the city transitions into the wet season, it witnesses lower sunshine hours compared to April, while maintaining longer daylight hours. The dense clouds, along with ample shade from the city's green foliage, provide some respite from the heat. While outdoor activities may get hampered, the indoor entertainment options and local cuisine make up for it, providing ample avenues for an engaging stay in
Mae Hong Son.
Temperature
The unfolding of May shows an average high-temperature of a still fiery hot 35.9°C (96.6°F), indicating a slight variance from April's 38.7°C (101.7°F). Mae Hong Son experiences a drastic reduction from day temperatures to an average low of 23.6°C (74.5°F) in May.
Heat index
Throughout May, the heat index is calculated to be a blazing hot 54°C (129.2°F).
Beware: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are very likely. Heatstroke is imminent with prolonged activity.
Heat index specifics point out values are for conditions of shade and a slight breeze. The heat index could experience an increase of 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees due to direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', embodies the combination of air temperature and moisture content to illustrate perceived heat. The influence of weather is personal, with a diverse population experiencing it differently due to differences in body mass, stature, and degree of activity. When directly under the sun, the weather's impact can intensify, possibly boosting the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly meaningful for babies and toddlers. Young individuals usually face greater risks than adults as their sweat production is less. Also, their larger skin surface relative to their small bodies and the high heat generation due to their activity contributes to their vulnerability.
Through perspiration, the body has a natural mechanism to eliminate excessive heat via sweat evaporation. Higher relative humidity impedes evaporation, thus reducing heat dispersion from the body, culminating in a sensation of overheating. If heat absorption isn't effectively countered by the body's cooling methods, body temperature surges, hinting at potential problems.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in May is 71%.
Rainfall
In Mae Hong Son,
Thailand, in May, it is raining for 17 days, with typically 175mm (6.89") of accumulated precipitation. Throughout the year, there are 138 rainfall days, and 1292mm (50.87") of precipitation is accumulated.
Daylight
In May, the average length of the day is 13h and 3min.
On the first day of May, sunrise is at 05:59 and sunset at 18:50. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:49 and sunset at 19:02 +07.
Sunshine
In Mae Hong Son, the average sunshine in May 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 of 11, and more, symbolizes an extreme threat to health from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: A maximum daily UV index of 12 during May morphs into the following directions:
Implement all key precautions. Warding off sun damage is critical. The hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. have the most intense UV radiation. As much as possible, limit direct sun exposure during this period. Always opt for UVA and UVB-resistant sunglasses on radiant days. Despite the overcast weather, sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 should be applied liberally and reapplied often, particularly after swimming or an outdoor workout.