Last updated: August 21, 2025
In May, Dunhuang, China, experiences a dynamic climate marked by maximum temperatures soaring to 38°C (100°F) and a pleasant average of 21°C (70°F). As the month progresses, the minimum temperature can dip to 4°C (40°F), showcasing the region’s notable temperature variation. Rainfall is minimal, with an average precipitation amount of just 5 mm (0.2 in) over approximately 1 day. The overall humidity hovers around 30%, contributing to a dry yet inviting atmosphere ideal for outdoor exploration and cultural experiences.
In Dunhuang, China, the month of May marks a notable transition toward warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a striking maximum of 38°C (100°F). This dramatic rise in temperature is accompanied by an average of 21°C (70°F), providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. Following the chill of early spring, May’s warmth signals a significant increase in warmth that continues into the summer. As the region shakes off the last vestiges of winter, the inviting climate of May sets the stage for vibrant adventures, making it an ideal time to experience the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty that Dunhuang has to offer.
May in Dunhuang, China, marks a subtle shift in the arid landscape as the precipitation begins to pick up, bringing an average of 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain over one day. This increase from the preceding months, characterized by almost dry conditions—with just 1 mm in April—highlights the transition towards the wetter early summer months. Though still minimal, this light rainfall helps nourish the environment, setting the stage for the gradual rise in precipitation that follows in June and July. Overall, May's precipitation, while limited, represents a noteworthy change in Dunhuang's typically dry climate, hinting at nature’s resilience even in the desert.
As the desert climate of Dunhuang transitions into May, a noteworthy trend emerges in humidity levels, which dip to a comfortable 30%. This marks a significant decrease from the 36% recorded in April, continuing the downward trajectory that began earlier in the year. The dry air, coupled with warming temperatures, creates an inviting environment for visitors seeking to explore the region's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As summer approaches, the humidity further decreases, reaching its lowest levels in July and August at just 25%, reinforcing Dunhuang's reputation for dry, sun-soaked adventures.
As May arrives in Dunhuang, China, residents and visitors alike need to be mindful of the exceptionally high UV Index, peaking at 10. This level signifies a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a brief burn time of just 15 minutes. Following the trend from April, where the UV Index was already very high at 9, May highlights the intense sun conditions typical of early summer in this region. This pattern continues into June, further emphasizing the necessity for sun protection. As you enjoy the vibrant springs of Dunhuang, remember to stay shaded and apply sunscreen frequently. For more detailed information, check out the Dunhuang UV Index.
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In Dunhuang, China, May shines particularly bright, basking in an impressive 361 hours of sunlight. This delightful month marks a notable peak, as the sun steadily increases its presence from 223 hours in January to an energetic 372 hours in July. The gradual ascent in daylight hours reflects the vibrant transition into late spring, where the warm rays invite exploration of the region's stunning landscapes. As summer approaches, the sun remains generous, yet May stands out as a beacon of brightness, offering the perfect blend of warmth and outdoor adventure before the peak intensity of the summer months. This trend not only highlights the allure of May but also sets the stage for a sun-soaked adventure in Dunhuang.
In Dunhuang, China, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 57%, marking an uptick from the preceding months, where the chances dip to their lowest in April at 49%. As spring progresses, May showcases a mild increase in sunshine compared to the earlier months, indicating a shift towards sunnier days. Notably, this month aligns closely with June's forecast of 51%, suggesting that sunshine remains a staple of Dunhuang's early summer charm. As seasons transition, the sunshine probabilities trend upwards, peaking in the summer months, but May offers a promising glimpse of the brighter days to come.
As spring unfolds in Dunhuang, China, daylight hours steadily increase, reaching a delightful peak in May with an impressive 14 hours of sunlight. This trend reflects the natural progression of longer days, where the vibrant colors of the landscape can be fully appreciated. Following the warmth of May, the sunlight remains generous throughout June and July, offering consistent daylight for outdoor activities and exploration. However, as summer transitions to fall, the duration of daylight begins to gradually wane, dropping back to 12 hours in September and down to 9 hours by the year's end. This rhythm of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of each phase throughout the year.
In Dunhuang, China, the winds of May maintain a pleasantly steady rhythm, with an average speed of 4.0 m/s (9 mph). This makes May one of the more breezy months, just slightly below the breezy conditions of April and July. As the season transitions from the cooler spring months to the warmer summer days, the wind speed shows a slight dip from April's peak, yet remains consistent enough to suggest a gentle embrace of the approaching heat. Throughout the year, wind speeds fluctuate, peaking in early spring and settling into a mild winter lull, but May strikes a harmonious balance, offering a refreshing breath of air that invites exploration and adventure in the enchanting landscapes of this historical oasis.
Weather in Dunhuang varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Dunhuang, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). The month experiences minimal precipitation of just 5 mm (0.2 in) over one day and a low humidity level of 30%, making it a warm and dry period. In contrast, January sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), averaging -7°C (19°F). Precipitation is nearly nonexistent at just 1 mm (0.1 in) over zero days, and humidity is higher at 47%, contributing to the bitter cold. For further details on January weather, you can check Dunhuang weather in January.
May and February present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 4°C (40°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F) and minimal precipitation of just 5 mm (0.2 in) over one day. The humidity is relatively low at 30%, making the warmth feel quite pleasant. In contrast, February brings much colder temperatures, with lows plummeting to -20°C (-4°F) and maximums reaching only 17°C (63°F), averaging around -1°C (30°F). Precipitation is virtually nonexistent, with only 1 mm (0.0 in) recorded over zero days, and humidity is higher at 43%. For more detailed temperature patterns, you can check Dunhuang weather in February.
May weather is significantly warmer than March, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), compared to March's range of -10°C (15°F) to 26°C (79°F). While May typically enjoys an average temperature of 21°C (70°F) and low precipitation, with only 5 mm (0.2 in) falling over just one day, March is characterized by much colder averages at 8°C (46°F) and no recorded precipitation. Additionally, May has lower humidity at 30%, whereas March has a slightly higher humidity level of 38%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can refer to Dunhuang weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it’s clear that May enjoys a significantly warmer climate, with average temperatures soaring to 21°C (70°F) and a maximum of 38°C (100°F). In contrast, April's temperatures, while still mild, are cooler, ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to an average of 15°C (59°F) and a high of 31°C (89°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels, each recording just 4 to 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain over one day, but May tends to be less humid at 30%, compared to April's 36%. For those interested in exploring April's weather specifics, you can find more information here: Dunhuang weather in April.
In May, the weather features a significant range in temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at a high of 38°C (100°F). The month is relatively dry, receiving only 5 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation over just one day and maintaining a humidity level of 30%. In contrast, June sees a more moderate minimum temperature of 12°C (53°F) and a warmer average of 25°C (78°F), with maximum temperatures slightly lower at 37°C (98°F). Precipitation increases to 8 mm (0.3 in), occurring on two days, while humidity decreases slightly to 27%. For more details about June weather, you can check Dunhuang weather in June.
In May, the weather starts to warm up with temperatures ranging from a cool 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at a scorching 38°C (100°F) during the day. The month typically sees little rain, with only 5 mm of precipitation over just a single day and humidity levels at 30%. In contrast, July offers hotter conditions, with nighttime temperatures rising to a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), while highs can reach an impressive 42°C (108°F). Additionally, July experiences slightly more rainfall at 9 mm, though it also maintains a low humidity level of 25%. For more details on July weather, you can check Dunhuang weather in July.
May and August exhibit distinct weather patterns that reflect the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a warm maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F). The month sees minimal precipitation of 5 mm (0.2 in) over just one day and features relatively low humidity at 30%.
In contrast, August offers slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a higher average of 26°C (80°F), peaking at 40°C (103°F). Precipitation increases to 9 mm (0.3 in), although it still occurs on only one day, and humidity drops slightly to 25%. For more detailed insights into August weather, you can visit Dunhuang weather in August.
May and September exhibit quite similar temperature profiles, each starting with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and averaging around 21°C (70°F). However, May tends to see slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 38°C (100°F), compared to September's peak of 37°C (98°F). Precipitation is minimal in both months, with May experiencing 5 mm over just one day, while September boasts even drier conditions with only 1 mm of precipitation and no rainy days at all. Humidity levels are comparable as well, with May at 30% and September slightly higher at 32%. For more insights, check out Dunhuang weather in September.
May and October present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant 21°C (70°F) on average, with highs reaching up to 38°C (100°F), making it a much warmer month overall. The humidity is relatively low at 30%, with minimal precipitation of just 5 mm (0.2 in) over one day. In stark contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with an average of 11°C (51°F) and lows dropping to -5°C (24°F). Despite experiencing slightly higher humidity at 48%, October is more stable in terms of precipitation, receiving only 1 mm (0.0 in) over no rainy days. For additional details on the conditions in October, you can refer to Dunhuang weather in October.
May and November offer starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F) and low humidity at 30%. The month receives minimal precipitation, with just 5 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall over a single day. In contrast, November experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and an average of 1°C (35°F), peaking at 20°C (68°F). The humidity rises to 54%, but the month enjoys dry conditions with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and no rainy days. For a detailed overview, you can check out Dunhuang weather in November.
In May, the weather is characterized by warm temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average high of 21°C (70°F), reaching up to 38°C (100°F) on the hottest days. The humidity is relatively low at 30%, and there is very little rainfall, averaging only 5 mm across one day. In contrast, December brings a stark change, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and an average around -6°C (21°F), peaking at just 9°C (48°F). The humidity rises to 50%, but precipitation is minimal, averaging only 1 mm with no rainy days. For more details on winter conditions, you can check Dunhuang weather in December.
As May unfolds in Dunhuang, the weather marks a distinct transition from the cooler spring months to the warmer summer ahead. Daytime temperatures can soar to a sizzling 38°C (100°F), yet the nights remain refreshingly cool, with averages around 21°C (70°F) and occasional drops to 4°C (40°F). This delightful blend of warmth and coolness is enhanced by low humidity levels of just 30%, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures. With minimal precipitation—only 5 mm expected and typically just a single wet day—May offers predominantly dry and sunny conditions, inviting visitors to explore the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of the region. For a detailed understanding of how May fits into the larger climate patterns, visit Dunhuang Climate.