Last updated: August 21, 2025
In Recife, Brazil, May is marked by a warm and humid climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 32°C (89°F) and a comfortable average of 26°C (79°F). The minimum temperature hovers around 21°C (71°F), providing a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities. However, this month brings considerable rainfall, with precipitation amounts totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over 26 days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. With the humidity often at a staggering 90%, visitors and locals alike can expect a lush tropical environment, perfect for enjoying the vibrant culture of this beautiful city.
In May, Recife, Brazil, experiences a pleasant transition in temperatures as the air begins to cool slightly after the hotter months. With minimum temperatures dropping to 21°C (71°F) and averages hovering around 26°C (79°F), this month provides a comfortable climate for both locals and visitors. The maximum temperature reaches 32°C (89°F), offering plenty of sunshine without the oppressive heat felt earlier in the year. Compared to April's warmth, May brings a subtle ease to the tropical heat, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s vibrant culture and stunning beaches while enjoying milder weather conditions.
In May, Recife experiences a significant uptick in rainfall, averaging 111 mm (4.4 inches), making it one of the wettest months of the year. With 26 days marked by precipitation, this trend highlights the peak of the rainy season, as May is only slightly drier than June, which sees even higher totals of 149 mm (5.9 inches). The gradual increase in rainfall from January's 48 mm (1.9 inches) to May’s totals underscores a clear shift from the relatively dry start of the year toward a wetter climate. This pattern not only enriches the lush landscape of Recife but also sets the stage for the heavy downpours that continue into the following months.
In May, Recife experiences its peak humidity at 90%, marking it as one of the most humid months of the year. This increase is part of a gradual rise that begins in the first quarter, with humidity steadily climbing from 84% in January to 89% in April. Following May, humidity slightly declines, but the overall trend shows that Recife remains significantly moist throughout the first half of the year. As the city transitions into the dryer months, humidity drops to 74% by October, offering a stark contrast to the early year's oppressive moisture, while November and December provide a mild respite. This climatic pattern underscores Recife's tropical environment, where humidity plays a key role throughout the year.
In May, Recife experiences a significant UV Index of 12, maintaining its position in the extreme exposure category. Although this marks a slight decrease from the 14 observed in the first four months of the year, the risk of skin damage remains high with a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes. The overall trend throughout the year shows that residents and visitors should always be vigilant about sun protection, especially as the Index only dips slightly in the following months of June and July. As you plan your activities, be sure to monitor the UV Index to safeguard your skin health in this vibrant Brazilian city. For more details, check out the Recife UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May in Recife, Brazil, brings a delightful mix of sunny days, boasting 321 hours of sunshine. This month continues a trend of increasing sunlight from the previous months, with March peaking at 340 hours and April maintaining a solid 314 hours. As the year progresses, the sunshine seems to flourish, particularly evident in the transition from early spring to late autumn, where the numbers rise significantly, culminating in December's impressive 355 hours. Overall, May serves as a gateway to longer, brighter days, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the warmth of Recife's radiant climate.
In Recife, Brazil, May presents a 38% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight rebound from April's 33%. This month sits comfortably in the transitional phase of the year, where the likelihood of sunshine starts to enhance as it leads into the dryer months ahead. Following May, the summer months of June and July show promising increases in sunny days, with chances climbing to 44% and 46%, respectively. As the year progresses, you'll notice a delightful upward trend in sunshine, with the sunniest months approaching in September and November, boasting chances of 53% and 49%. Overall, May is a decent time to enjoy Recife's vibrant weather, with a solid balance of sun and the lingering hum of the wet season.
In Recife, Brazil, the daylight duration reveals a fascinating pattern throughout the year. From January to March, the city enjoys a consistent 12 hours of daylight, creating a vibrant atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. As spring approaches in April and May, daylight slightly diminishes to 11 hours, signaling the onset of the southern hemisphere's wet season. This trend of reduced daylight continues into the winter months of June to August, maintaining that same 11 hours. However, as the year progresses into September, daylight increases again, returning to that delightful 12-hour mark, and this generous daylight envelope continues through to December. This rhythmic cycle of light not only influences daily life in Recife but also adds to its charm as seasons transition.
In May, Recife experiences an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), matching its January counterpart, indicating a slight increase from the calmer breezes of previous months. This uptick is a harbinger of the windier conditions to come in the following months, as June and July see a gradual rise, peaking in August with a robust average of 4.3 m/s (10 mph). Throughout the year, the winds showcase a gentle trend upward from the quieter early months of the year, creating a vibrant atmosphere as the seasons shift. As spring transitions to winter, the winds not only invigorate the coastal charm of Recife but also hint at the dynamic weather patterns that define this beautiful Brazilian city.
Weather in Recife varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Recife, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparison, May's weather features slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (71°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), while January presents a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). The maximum temperatures in January can reach up to 34°C (93°F), compared to 32°C (89°F) in May. Additionally, May experiences significantly more precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 26 days, compared to January's 48 mm (1.9 in) over 17 days. Humidity levels are also higher in May at 90%, compared to January's 84%. For a detailed look at January weather, you can visit Recife weather in January.
May and February both feature warm temperatures, but they differ in several key aspects. In February, the minimum temperature is slightly higher at 22°C (73°F), while May's minimum temperature is 21°C (71°F). February also has a higher maximum temperature of 34°C (93°F) compared to May’s 32°C (89°F). Despite being warmer, February experiences less rainfall with 74 mm (2.9 in) over 20 days, whereas May receives significantly more precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) across 26 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly elevated in May at 90%, compared to February's 87%. For a more detailed look at February's weather, you can visit Recife weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, we observe a few key differences. May tends to have slightly lower average temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (71°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), while March features higher temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Both months experience significant rainfall, but May has a bit more precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 26 days, compared to March's 104 mm (4.1 in) over 24 days. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with May averaging around 90% and March at 88%. For a more detailed look at March's weather, you can check out Recife weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we find that both months have relatively warm temperatures, though April slightly edges out May. April records a minimum temperature of 22°C (73°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F), while May has a minimum of 21°C (71°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). The maximum temperatures are also comparable, with April reaching up to 33°C (91°F) and May at 32°C (89°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar as well, with May receiving 111 mm (4.4 in) over 26 days and April having 109 mm (4.3 in) across 24 days. Humidity is slightly higher in May at 90% compared to April's 89%. For a detailed overview, you can check Recife weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, we see that May tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching about 26°C (79°F) compared to June's average of 25°C (77°F). However, June experiences a bit more precipitation, totaling 149 mm (5.9 in), while May sees 111 mm (4.4 in). Interestingly, both months have similar humidity levels, with May at 90% and June slightly lower at 89%. Notably, June has a high number of rainy days, with rainfall occurring on 25 days, just one day less than in May. For more details on what to expect, check out Recife weather in June.
In May, the weather is generally warmer, with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F) and maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (89°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with 111 mm (4.4 in) spread across 26 days and high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, July offers slightly cooler conditions, with average temperatures around 24°C (76°F) and maximum temperatures peaking at 29°C (85°F). While July has a bit more precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over 23 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check Recife weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, May tends to be slightly warmer and more humid, with a minimum temperature of 21°C (71°F) and an average high of 32°C (89°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) across 26 days, resulting in a humidity level of 90%. In contrast, August features a milder climate with a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) and an average maximum of 30°C (86°F). The month is drier, with 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 24 days and a lower humidity of 84%. For more details about August weather, you can visit Recife weather in August.
May and September in Recife exhibit a notable difference in weather patterns, particularly in temperature and precipitation. May experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with averages around 26°C (79°F) and maximums reaching 32°C (89°F), while September is generally cooler, averaging 25°C (77°F) and also peaking at 32°C (90°F). Notably, May sees a higher amount of rainfall, totaling 111 mm (4.4 inches) over 26 days, compared to September's 50 mm (2.0 inches) across 18 days. Additionally, the humidity levels in May are more pronounced at 90%, whereas September features a lower humidity of 79%, making the latter month feel more comfortable. For more detailed insights, you can check Recife weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, we notice some interesting similarities and differences. Both months feature an average temperature of around 26°C (79°F), with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (89°F). However, May is significantly wetter, receiving 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over 26 days, while October sees much less rain, with only 39 mm (1.5 in) over 14 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 90%, contrasting with October’s more comfortable 74%. For more insights into October's climate, you can check out Recife weather in October.
May and November exhibit distinct weather patterns, with May generally being cooler and wetter than November. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (71°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), accompanied by a high humidity level of 90% and significant rainfall totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) across 26 days. In contrast, November features slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), but experiences much less rainfall at 40 mm (1.6 in) over only 14 days, and lower humidity at 71%. For more detailed information, you can check Recife weather in November.
May and December exhibit distinct weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (71°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and significant rainfall, accumulating 111 mm (4.4 inches) over 26 days. In contrast, December presents slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 33°C (91°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). However, precipitation is much lower in December, totaling 44 mm (1.7 inches) spread over 17 days and accompanied by a reduced humidity level of 72%. For more information on the climate specifics, you can check Recife weather in December.
As May settles in, Recife experiences a shift in weather patterns distinct from earlier months. With an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), the days remain warm, yet the humidity rises to a persistent 90%, creating a subtropical feel. Unlike the drier months, May sees increased rainfall, averaging 111 mm over 26 days, making it one of the wettest times of the year. This heightened precipitation not only influences outdoor activities but also enriches the lush landscape, giving the city an enchanting vibrancy. To learn more about the weather nuances throughout the year, check out Recife Climate.