Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso is characterized by intense heat, with maximum temperatures soaring to 42°C (107°F) and an average of 33°C (91°F) that makes the air feel stifling. The evenings offer some relief, dropping to a minimum of 23°C (74°F). Despite the high temperatures, precipitation begins to make its presence felt, with 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain falling over 6 days of the month. Humidity levels sit around 52%, adding a layer of discomfort to the already warm conditions. This combination of heat and occasional rainfall contributes to the unique climate experience of Ouagadougou in May.
In Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, May marks the transition into the hotter months, with temperatures reflecting a significant rise from the previous months. The minimum temperature hovers at a warm 23°C (74°F), providing a comfortable start to the day, while daytime brings an average of 33°C (91°F), suggesting plenty of sunshine and warmth. The peak temperatures can reach an impressive 42°C (107°F), resembling the intensity of the preceding April but offering slightly less discomfort. As May progresses, the heat waves become more pronounced compared to the cooler mornings and evenings, setting the stage for the even hotter months ahead. This month serves as a vivid reminder of Burkina Faso's climate, where the warmth prevails, shaping both daily activities and the local lifestyle.
In May, Ouagadougou experiences a significant shift in weather patterns, with precipitation rising to 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days, marking a notable increase compared to the preceding months. This surge heralds the onset of the rainy season, contrasting sharply with the arid conditions of the earlier months, where January and February registered virtually no rainfall. As temperatures begin to cool and vegetation starts to thrive, May acts as a crucial transition point, paving the way for the much heavier rains of June and July. The approach of the wet season not only alters the landscape but also revitalizes the ecosystem, setting the stage for the lush greenery that defines Burkina Faso's landscape in the months that follow.
In May, Ouagadougou experiences a notable shift in humidity, rising to 52%, a significant increase from the drier months of earlier in the year. This transition marks the onset of the wet season, as rainfall begins to seep into the atmosphere following the arid conditions of January through April, where humidity levels hovered between 8% and 27%. As the city approaches the peak of the rainy season in June, humidity escalates further to 73%, indicating a gradual buildup of moisture in the air. This pattern highlights a clear trend: as spring gives way to summer, Ouagadougou not only feels the heat but also absorbs the accompanying humidity, reshaping the landscape and environment in preparation for the lushness of the months to come.
In May, the UV Index in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, stands at an extreme level of 12, indicating a continued trend of intense sun exposure that characterizes the region's early summer months. As temperatures rise, the consistent 10-minute burn time underscores the urgent need for protective measures against harmful UV rays. This trend follows an upward trajectory from January's UV Index of 11 and peaks at 14 in August, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay vigilant. To stay informed about daily UV levels and plan accordingly, check out the latest updates here: Ouagadougou UV Index.
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May brings a delightful peak of sunshine to Ouagadougou, with 337 hours of radiant daylight, marking it as the sunniest month of the year. This sunny streak follows a progressive increase from 265 hours in January, progressively climbing to 325 hours in March and 321 hours in April. Such a vibrant accumulation of sunlight not only brightens the days but also heralds the onset of the warm season. As June and July approach, the hours remain commendably high, ensuring the city continues to bask in ample sunlight, even as the summer heat sets in. This consistent upward trend in sunshine hours highlights May’s role as a transitional month, balancing the lushness of spring with the ardor of summer.
As the dry season transitions into the wet season, May in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, presents a notable shift in sunny weather. With a 51% chance of sunshine, May marks the tipping point where abundant sunlight begins to wane, contrasting sharply with earlier months like January at an impressive 91% and February at 78%. This decrease in sunny days continues a downward trend from April's 54%, hinting that the anticipated arrival of the rains may influence the weather's sunny disposition. Following May, June brings a slight rebound to 59%, but the overall pattern suggests that sun-seekers should be prepared for increasing cloud cover as summer unfolds.
In Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, the month of May sees a steady 12 hours of daylight, maintaining the trend established since March. This consistent daylight duration is a hallmark of the region's climate, showcasing a transition into the warm, sunny months. Following the relatively shorter days of January and February, daylight extends to a perfect equilibrium, persisting through June, July, and August as well. This equable distribution of light not only supports the vibrant ecosystem of the area but also enriches the lives of its residents, providing ample time for outdoor activities and cultural gatherings. As the year progresses towards the cooler months, daylight gradually diminishes again, returning to 11 hours by November, marking a gentle ebb in the rhythm of time under the African sun.
In May, Ouagadougou experiences a slight uptick in average wind speed, reaching 2.9 m/s (6 mph), which marks one of the higher points for the year alongside July. This gentle breeze not only adds a refreshing touch to the warm temperatures but also hints at the transitional phase of the weather, leading into the rainy season. Throughout the earlier months, wind speeds have been relatively stable, hovering around 2.6 to 2.8 m/s. The consistent patterns observed from January through April provide a calming backdrop to May's more dynamic air movement, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities as nature begins to stir. As the months progress into the summer, wind speeds begin to fluctuate more noticeably, but May stands out as a pivotal moment, blending the tranquility of the dry season with the anticipation of impending rains.
Weather in Ouagadougou varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Ouagadougou, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to a scorching maximum of 42°C (107°F), with an average of 33°C (91°F). Additionally, the month experiences some precipitation, totaling 29 mm (1.1 in) across about six days, and a humidity level of 52%. In contrast, January offers much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging at 25°C (78°F). Remarkably, January is dry, recording no precipitation and only 9% humidity. For more details, you can check Ouagadougou weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, May typically experiences significantly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 33°C (91°F), peaking at 42°C (107°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) to an average of 28°C (83°F), with a maximum of 39°C (103°F). Additionally, May sees more precipitation, averaging 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days, while February is notably drier with only 1 mm (0.0 in) and no recorded rainy days. The humidity levels also vary significantly, with May at 52% compared to February’s much lower 8%. For a more detailed look at February's weather, you can visit Ouagadougou weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, we can see some notable differences. May experiences higher average temperatures, peaking at a maximum of 42°C (107°F), with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 33°C (91°F). In contrast, March has slightly lower minimum and average temperatures, with a maximum also reaching 42°C (108°F), but averages only 32°C (90°F) overall. Moreover, May receives more precipitation, with 29 mm (1.1 in) over six days, whereas March sees virtually no rain, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days at all. Additionally, May's humidity is significantly higher at 52%, compared to a mere 10% in March, making it feel much drier. For more detailed insights, check Ouagadougou weather in March.
When comparing the weather conditions of April and May, it is evident that both months feature similar minimum temperatures, averaging around 23°C (74°F). However, April tends to be slightly warmer on average, with temperatures reaching an average of 34°C (93°F) and a maximum of 43°C (110°F), compared to May's average of 33°C (91°F) and maximum of 42°C (107°F). Additionally, April sees significantly less precipitation, with only 5 mm (0.2 in) over just 1 day, whereas May experiences 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain across 6 days. The humidity also differs, as April has a lower level at 27%, while May's humidity rises to 52%. For more detailed information about April's weather specifics, you can refer to Ouagadougou weather in April.
May tends to be hotter than June, with average temperatures peaking at 33°C (91°F) and maximums reaching up to 42°C (107°F). In contrast, June experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 30°C (86°F) and a maximum of 39°C (103°F). Precipitation also increases in June, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) across 8 days, compared to May's 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days. Furthermore, June boasts higher humidity levels at 73%, compared to May's 52%, making June feel noticeably more humid. For more detailed information, you can check out Ouagadougou weather in June.
When comparing the weather in May and July, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences higher average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to a scorching maximum of 42°C (107°F), with an average of 33°C (91°F). In contrast, July is cooler on average, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 37°C (98°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; May sees only 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain over about 6 days, while July is much wetter, receiving 111 mm (4.4 in) over 19 days. Additionally, humidity levels rise considerably in July to 75%, compared to May’s 52%. For more details, check Ouagadougou weather in July.
When comparing the weather between May and August, it's clear that May is marked by significantly higher temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to a scorching maximum of 42°C (107°F), with an average of 33°C (91°F). In contrast, August experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), averaging around 27°C (80°F). Precipitation also varies dramatically; May sees 29 mm (1.1 in) over just 6 days, while August is much wetter, receiving 221 mm (8.7 in) across 23 days, resulting in notably higher humidity levels of 82%. For more detailed information, you can check out Ouagadougou weather in August.
May and September present notable contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average peak of 33°C (91°F), reaching highs of 42°C (107°F). Conversely, September experiences milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 22°C (71°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), with a maximum of 36°C (97°F). While May sees relatively low precipitation at 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days, September is much wetter, with 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain falling over 15 days. Additionally, humidity levels rise significantly in September to 81%, compared to May's more comfortable 52%. For more information, check out Ouagadougou weather in September.
In May, the weather is characterized by high temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 33°C (91°F), peaking at 42°C (107°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, with only 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days and a humidity level of 52%, making it feel quite warm and dry. In contrast, October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 29°C (84°F), reaching a maximum of 38°C (101°F). However, it is wetter than May, with 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain over the same number of days, and a higher humidity level of 75%, creating a more humid environment. For more detailed insights into October weather, visit Ouagadougou weather in October.
In May, the weather is significantly warmer, with minimum temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F) and average highs soaring up to 33°C (91°F), peaking at a sweltering maximum of 42°C (107°F). This month also experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, with 29 mm (1.1 in) spread over about 6 days and a humidity level averaging 52%. In contrast, November brings a more pleasant climate, featuring lower temperatures that range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to an average of 29°C (84°F), with a maximum of 39°C (102°F). Notably, November is dry, with zero precipitation recorded, resulting in lower humidity levels of around 33%. For more details, you can check out Ouagadougou weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and can reach a sweltering maximum of 42°C (107°F), accompanied by moderate humidity at 52%. This month also sees an average precipitation of 29 mm (1.1 in) over about six days. In stark contrast, December offers a much cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging around 26°C (80°F). Additionally, December is notably dry, boasting no recorded precipitation and only 13% humidity, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more detailed information about the December weather, visit Ouagadougou weather in December.
As May unfolds in Ouagadougou, it brings a dramatic shift in weather, characterized by a steep rise in temperatures that can soar up to a sizzling 42°C (107°F). Compared to the milder months that precede it, May is noticeably hotter, showcasing an average temperature around 33°C (91°F). While the heat reaches its peak, the humidity remains moderate at 52%, offering a unique, albeit intense, experience. With only scattered precipitation occurring over a few days, May stands apart as a dry prelude to the rainy season, making it essential for visitors to embrace the sun while staying hydrated. Explore more about this fascinating climate by visiting Ouagadougou Climate.