Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Potosi, Bolivia presents a unique climatic profile characterized by moderate temperatures and notable humidity. With a maximum temperature reaching 21°C (69°F) and an average temperature lingering around 8°C (47°F), residents and visitors can expect cool days and chilly nights, where the minimum dips to -6°C (21°F). Throughout the month, precipitation is light, totaling approximately 11 mm (0.4 in), falling on only 3 days, ensuring that while the air remains damp with 87% humidity, the scenery stays vibrant and picturesque. This blend of cool weather and modest rainfall makes May a distinct time to experience the historical richness and stunning vistas of Potosi.
In May, Potosi, Bolivia, experiences a notable shift in temperatures as the chill of early winter sets in. With minimums dropping to -6°C (21°F) and average temperatures hovering around 8°C (47°F), the month marks a transition to colder conditions. During the day, visitors can still enjoy pleasant afternoons, as highs can reach up to 21°C (69°F). This combination of cooler mornings and mild afternoons creates a striking contrast, inviting both locals and travelers to bundle up for brisk mornings while relishing the warmth of the midday sun. As the month progresses, one can sense the approach of winter, making May a fascinating time to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this high-altitude city.
In Potosi, Bolivia, the month of May marks a noticeable shift in precipitation patterns. Following a wet spell in the preceding months, with January and February experiencing significant rainfall, May sees a drastic drop to just 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, falling over a mere three days. This stark reduction highlights a transition towards the drier winter months ahead, as after May, rainfall continues to dwindle, culminating in a minimal 3 mm (0.1 in) in June. Such trends underline the pronounced seasonal variability in Potosi, where May serves as a clear demarcation between the wetter months of the wet season and the onset of the arid winter, offering a glimpse into the region's unique climatic rhythm.
In May, Potosi, Bolivia, experiences a noticeable decline in humidity, dropping to 87% from the previous month's 89%. This slight decrease marks the continuation of a trend observed in the months leading into the dry season, where the humidity gradually declines after peaking at a consistent 90% from January through March. As June approaches, the air becomes significantly drier, with humidity plummeting to 72% and continuing to decrease well into the heart of winter. This transition not only signifies a shift in weather patterns but also plants the seeds for the refreshing, crisper air that characterizes the Bolivian winter months ahead.
In Potosi, Bolivia, the UV Index experiences strikingly high levels throughout the year, with May marking a significant, albeit slightly lower, value of 12 on the scale. This classification remains in the extreme exposure category, indicating that even in late spring, sun protection is crucial, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we observe trends from January through May, the UV Index shows a gradual decrease from 18 to 12, yet it consistently maintains an extreme rating, underscoring the need for vigilance against potential skin damage. As the months progress towards winter, the index dips to 9 in June, shifting to a very high category, but it's essential to stay informed about these levels year-round. For more detailed insights, check the Potosi UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May brings a delightful surge of sunshine to Potosi, Bolivia, with 330 hours of radiant light illuminating the city. This month stands as a notable peak in a gradual upward trend, starting from January's 268 hours. As the year progresses, the hours of sunshine steadily increase, reaching their zenith in August with an impressive 340 hours. Even as Potosi transitions into the cooler months of September and October, the sunlight remains abundant, often exceeding 320 hours. Such a vibrant display of sunshine not only enhances the beauty of this highland gem but also invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes throughout the spring months.
As spring transitions into early summer, May in Potosi, Bolivia, ushers in a significant increase in sunny days, with a 61% chance of sunshine. This marks a notable rise from the 41% likelihood in April, highlighting a positive trend towards clearer skies as the month progresses. Following May, the sunny disposition continues, reaching a peak in July with an impressive 82% chance of sunshine. Overall, this pattern indicates that while the year starts off relatively overcast, May stands out as a promising month for those seeking the warmth and brightness of the sun, setting the stage for even sunnier days ahead.
In Potosi, Bolivia, the daylight hours exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm throughout the year. Beginning with a generous 13 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually shorten to 11 hours by April and May, creating a brief but notable dip before the winter months set in. This reduction continues into June, where daylight reaches its lowest at 10 hours. However, a gradual recovery begins in July, with daylight returning to 11 hours, and maintaining this balance until September. With the arrival of October, daylight once more starts to lengthen, culminating in the lush 13-hour days of November and December. Overall, the daylight patterns reflect the region's transition from summer to winter, capturing the essence of Potosi's unique climatic cycle.
In May, Potosi experiences a gentle uptick in wind speed, averaging 2.0 m/s (4 mph), which modestly surpasses the more tranquil conditions seen earlier in the year. As the region transitions from the milder breezes of April, this slight increase not only marks the beginning of a trend towards stronger winds in the following months but also hints at the invigorating changes brought by approaching winter. Notably, June then elevates the average to 2.2 m/s (5 mph), sustaining this energy through the summer months. Overall, May serves as a pivotal point in Potosi's climate, bridging the calm of the previous months with the livelier, steady winds that follow.
Weather in Potosi varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Potosi, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, a few notable differences emerge. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month sees relatively light precipitation, totaling just 11 mm (0.4 in) over three days, and a humidity level of 87%. In contrast, January offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), an average of 10°C (51°F), and a similar maximum of 20°C (69°F). However, it experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) across 21 days, along with slightly higher humidity at 90%. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can refer to Potosi weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May records a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at 21°C (69°F), with relatively low precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days. In stark contrast, February enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 2°C (35°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). However, it experiences significantly heavier rainfall, totaling 149 mm (5.9 in) across 24 days, resulting in a humidity level of 90%. For more insights on February weather specifics, visit Potosi weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, May tends to be milder overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F). This month experiences significantly less precipitation, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days and humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, March is slightly warmer on average, with temperatures fluctuating between -1°C (30°F) and 20°C (68°F). However, it has much higher rainfall, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over 23 days and a humidity level of 90%. For a more detailed look at March weather in Potosi, visit Potosi weather in March.
In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, we observe some notable differences. While both months share a maximum temperature of 21°C (70°F), May experiences a slightly lower average temperature of 8°C (47°F) compared to April's 9°C (49°F). Precipitation also sees a significant reduction; May has only 11 mm (0.4 in) falling over just 3 days, whereas April is much wetter with 48 mm (1.9 in) recorded over 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with May at 87% and April slightly higher at 89%. For more insights on April's weather, you can visit Potosi weather in April.
In May, the weather features a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), with peaks reaching 21°C (69°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) over three days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, June experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while still capping at a maximum of 21°C (69°F). However, June enjoys significantly less precipitation at only 3 mm (0.1 in) over just one day, and a drop in humidity to 72%. For more detailed insights, you can check Potosi weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a comfortable average of 8°C (47°F), reaching a high of 21°C (69°F). The month experiences a higher humidity level at 87% and sees about 11 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over three days. Conversely, July presents slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -10°C (13°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), capping at a maximum of 20°C (68°F). This month also features a lower humidity of 56% and a bit less precipitation at 9 mm (0.4 in) over just two days. For more insights on July weather, check out Potosi weather in July.
May and August present notable differences in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences around 11 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over three days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, August has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F), while still maintaining an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). However, August sees significantly less precipitation, only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just one day, resulting in lower humidity at 51%. For more details on weather during this time, check out Potosi weather in August.
When comparing the weather in May and September, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. May typically features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average high of 21°C (69°F), contrasted with September, where temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation also varies significantly, as May sees only 11 mm (0.4 in) over three days, while September experiences much more rain, accumulating 40 mm (1.6 in) over nine days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 87%, compared to 65% in September, contributing to a generally more comfortable atmosphere during the latter month. For more specific information, you can visit Potosi weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition towards warmer and cooler months. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation at 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, October sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). However, it brings increased precipitation totaling 57 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days and lower humidity at 69%. For more detailed insights on this month's weather in Potosi, check out Potosi weather in October.
May and November exhibit distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from late spring to early winter. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling just 11 mm (0.4 in) over about three days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, November brings milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a warmer maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging 11°C (53°F). However, rainfall significantly increases in November, accumulating 79 mm (3.1 in) over 17 days, alongside a lower humidity level of 81%. For more detailed information on November weather, visit Potosi weather in November.
May and December exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a comfortable 21°C (69°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month is relatively dry, receiving only 11 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just 3 days, while humidity hovers around 87%. In contrast, December features milder minimum temperatures of 3°C (37°F) and a warmer average of 11°C (51°F), reaching a peak of 24°C (75°F). However, it faces significantly higher rainfall, with 159 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation spread over 26 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 85%. For more details on the December climate, you can visit Potosi weather in December.
As May rolls in, Potosi experiences a transition that sets it apart from the preceding months. With temperatures reaching a maximum of 21°C, the days warm significantly, yet the average dips to a cooler 8°C, highlighting the brisk nights. While May witnesses a modest amount of precipitation spread across just three days, this contributes to the prevalent humidity of 87%, creating a unique blend of crisp and damp conditions. These characteristics mark May as a refreshing period, making it an excellent time for travelers seeking to explore the striking landscapes of the region. For more detailed insights on what to expect throughout the year, visit Potosi Climate.