Last updated: February 26, 2025
In May, Darwin experiences a warm and inviting climate, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (96°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), perfect for outdoor activities. The nights cool down to a comfortable minimum of 18°C (64°F), providing relief from the daytime heat. Rainfall is minimal, with an average of only 7 mm (0.3 in) recorded over just one day during the month, allowing for plenty of sunshine. Humidity hovers around 68%, creating a tropical ambiance that epitomizes the beauty of the Top End in late autumn.
In Darwin, Australia, May marks a transition into cooler, more comfortable temperatures after the sweltering heat of the summer months. With a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), the weather is pleasantly mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Despite the drop in nightly temperatures, daytime highs still reach up to 36°C (96°F), reminiscent of the warmer April, but the overall trend indicates a gentle cooling as winter approaches. This month showcases a delightful balance between warm days and cooler nights, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking to enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere without the summer's intense heat.
In May, Darwin, Australia, experiences a notable shift in its precipitation patterns as the wet season begins to wane. With just 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain over a mere one day, this month marks a sharp decline from the earlier months of torrential downpours. The dramatic drop from 104 mm (4.1 in) in April highlights a transition into the dry season, with the number of precipitation days plummeting significantly. This is a stark contrast to the earlier months, such as January, which averages 399 mm (15.7 in) across 23 days. As May rolls in, residents enjoy a brief respite from the relentless rain, beckoning the onset of drier months ahead. The landscape begins to dry, and the iconic tropical sun shines brighter, making way for the serene charm of the dry season in Darwin.
In Darwin, Australia, the month of May marks a notable shift in humidity levels, dropping to 68%. This decrease is part of a broader trend as the wet season recedes, transitioning into the dry season. While January and February are characterized by high humidity, reaching 86% and 89% respectively, May's levels reflect a significant drop, nearly 12% lower than April and a dramatic 21% lower than the peak humidity in February. As the weeks progress toward winter, humidity continues its downward trajectory, hitting its lowest point in July at just 42%. This gradual decline offers a refreshing break from the steamy conditions of the earlier months, making May an inviting time for both locals and visitors to enjoy the unique beauty of the Top End.
As May unfolds in Darwin, Australia, the UV Index remains a significant concern, measuring 11 and falling within the extreme exposure category. This marks a slight decrease from earlier months, yet the 10-minute burn time highlights the urgent need for sun protection. Throughout the year, Darwin consistently experiences high UV levels, especially from January to April, when indices peak at 15 or 16. Interestingly, as the dry season approaches, June and July see a slight decline, with indices of 9 and 10 respectively, transitioning to the very high category. However, the return to extreme levels in August and onward keeps vigilance paramount for residents and visitors alike. For those spending time outdoors, it's crucial to stay informed and prepared by visiting Darwin UV Index.
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As May rolls in, Darwin, Australia, basks in a delightful surge of sunlight, boasting an impressive 301 hours of bright, sunny days. This month marks a notable high after a steady climb from January's modest 195 hours. The trend reveals a gradual increase in daylight hours, with each month of the year showing a consistent uptick. February starts the ascent with 230 hours, and by April, the sunshine peaks at 277 hours—a prelude to the glorious May. Following May, June enjoys nearly equal sunshine at 294 hours, yet the momentum is undeniable; July and August surpass May, reaching heights of 303 and 311 hours respectively. This vibrant pattern not only highlights Darwin's transition into winter but also underscores its reputation as a sun-soaked paradise, inviting outdoor adventures and local explorations under its warm rays.
May heralds a significant shift in Darwin's weather patterns, with the chance of sunny days rising to 67%—a notable peak compared to the earlier months of the year. This transition from the relatively gloomy skies of January through April, where sunshine chances hover around 6% to 38%, signals the onset of the dry season. As the city moves into June and July, the likelihood of sun remains robust at 54% and 60% respectively, ensuring that the delightful, clear days of May set the stage for the sunnier months ahead. This trend illustrates that May is not just a lingering spring; it’s the gateway to Darwin's vibrant, sun-drenched winter.
In Darwin, Australia, the daylight duration begins at a steady 12 hours during the summer months of January through March, providing ample sunshine for outdoor activities and exploration. As autumn approaches in April, daylight slightly decreases to 11 hours, continuing this trend through May and into winter, with no further changes. However, come September, the duration transitions back to 12 hours, marking the return of longer days as spring takes hold. This cyclical pattern highlights Darwin's unique climate, where daylight remains relatively consistent throughout the year, offering residents and visitors a warm and inviting atmosphere regardless of the season.
In May, Darwin experiences a subtly refreshing wind speed averaging 2.8 m/s (about 6 mph), which adds a gentle breeze to the tropical climate. This month's wind is slightly stronger than the preceding months of April and March, where speeds dropped to 2.4 m/s and 2.6 m/s, respectively. The trend suggests a mild uptick heading into winter, providing a pleasant contrast to the stillness often felt in the early months of the year. As the season progresses, the winds remain relatively stable, hovering around the 6 mph mark through the subsequent months, indicating a persistent calmness that characterizes Darwin's unique weather patterns. Overall, May serves as a transitional period, with a slight increase in wind activity that perfectly complements the warm, dry environment.
The weather in Darwin changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Darwin and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in May and January, it is clear that May offers warmer temperatures with a pleasant average of 27°C (81°F) and a maximum of 36°C (96°F), while January's temperatures are slightly higher, averaging 28°C (83°F) but rarely reaching above 34°C (93°F). However, January is significantly wetter, with an average precipitation of 399 mm (15.7 in) over 23 days, compared to May's minimal 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain in just one day. Additionally, January has higher humidity levels at 86%, making it feel more muggy, whereas May’s humidity typically sits around 68%. For a detailed look at January's weather, check out Darwin weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, a significant contrast can be observed. May boasts warmer overall temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C and an average of 27°C, while February starts warmer with a minimum of 23°C but has a similar maximum of 36°C. However, February is much wetter, receiving a staggering 329 mm of precipitation over 24 days compared to May's minimal 7 mm over just 1 day. The humidity also remains higher in February at 89%, compared to May's 68%. For more information on February weather specifics, you can check Darwin weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, notable differences emerge. March is characterized by higher humidity at 87% and significantly more rainfall, with 316 mm of precipitation over 27 days, making it one of the wettest months of the year. In contrast, May boasts warmer temperatures, with an average of 27°C (81°F) and only 7 mm of precipitation over just one day, resulting in a much drier atmosphere. The stark reduction in rainfall and humidity in May creates a more comfortable climate compared to the wet and humid conditions of March. For more detailed information, check out Darwin weather in March.
In comparing the weather conditions of April and May, we can observe distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. April tends to have a slightly higher minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), while May sees temperatures starting at a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). Conversely, May is characterized by significantly lower precipitation, with only 7 mm (0.3 in) over just 1 day, compared to April's substantial 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels drop from April’s 80% to 68% in May, indicating drier conditions. For a more detailed look at April's weather, you can visit Darwin weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, May tends to be warmer with average temperatures around 27°C (81°F) and a maximum reaching up to 36°C (96°F), while June exhibits slightly cooler averages at 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Additionally, May experiences higher humidity levels at 68%, contrasted with June's more comfortable 54%. Precipitation is minimal in both months, but May records a slight increase with 7 mm (0.3 in) over one day, whereas June has just 2 mm (0.1 in) with no recorded rainy days. For more detailed weather information, you can visit Darwin weather in June.
In May, the weather is generally warmer with average temperatures reaching up to 27°C (81°F) and a maximum of 36°C (96°F), accompanied by higher humidity levels of around 68%. There is also a slight chance of light precipitation, with about 7 mm recorded over one day. In contrast, July experiences cooler conditions with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F), a maximum of 35°C (95°F), and significantly lower humidity at just 42%. Additionally, July is notably dry, seeing only 1 mm of precipitation over zero days. For more detailed insights, you can explore Darwin weather in July.
May and August in Darwin present notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F). The month sees a humidity level of 68% and a slight amount of precipitation at 7 mm, occurring on just one day. In contrast, August experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums at 14°C (57°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), while still reaching a maximum of 36°C (98°F). The humidity drops significantly to 44%, and rainfall is minimal at just 3 mm over the course of one day. For more specific weather details, you can visit Darwin weather in August.
May and September exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F). The month experiences low precipitation, with just 7 mm (0.3 in) over only one day, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 68%. In contrast, September sees slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 13°C (56°F) and a higher maximum of 37°C (100°F), with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation also increases in September, totaling 17 mm (0.7 in) across three days, but humidity drops significantly to 44%. For more detailed insights, check out Darwin weather in September.
May and October present contrasting weather patterns. In May, the temperature ranges from a minimum of 18°C to a maximum of 36°C, with an average of 27°C and low humidity at 68%. The month sees minimal rainfall, with only 7 mm of precipitation over just one day. In contrast, October is warmer, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to a scorching 38°C and an average of 29°C. However, the weather is significantly wetter, receiving 95 mm of rain spread over 13 days, and the humidity drops to 42%. For more details on October conditions in Darwin, visit Darwin weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition from the dry to the wet season. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with relatively low precipitation of just 7 mm (0.3 in) over only one day, and a humidity level of 68%. In stark contrast, November features warmer temperatures with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum reaching 37°C (99°F). However, it also brings significantly more rainfall, accumulating 180 mm (7.1 in) across 22 days, along with a lower humidity of 55%. For a detailed look at November's weather, you can visit Darwin weather in November.
May and December present notably different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, measuring only 7 mm (0.3 in) over just 1 day, along with a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, December features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and an average temperature of 29°C (84°F), but it can also soar to a maximum of 36°C (98°F). However, December is significantly wetter, with 255 mm (10.1 in) of rainfall spread over 22 days, resulting in a higher humidity level of 73%. For a deeper insight into December's weather, you can check out Darwin weather in December.
May in Darwin marks a transition to cooler and drier conditions, providing a welcome respite from the intense heat of earlier months. With an average temperature of 27°C, it offers pleasantly warm days and cooler nights, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Precipitation is minimal, with only one day of rain, and humidity levels remain moderate, creating a comfortable atmosphere. This shift in weather also sets the stage for the region's dry season, making May an ideal time for visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of Darwin. For a comprehensive overview of what to expect throughout the year, check out Darwin Climate.