Last updated: August 21, 2025
In Popayán, Colombia, May welcomes visitors with mild temperatures, featuring a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F), dipping to a minimum of 10°C (51°F) at night. This month also sees significant rainfall, accumulating to 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. The air is notably humid, with levels reaching around 88%, making it an ideal time for experiencing the vibrant local culture against a backdrop of verdant scenery. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the frequent showers can add a refreshing touch to your exploration of this historic city.
In May, Popayán, Colombia, offers a delightful blend of mild temperatures, making it an inviting month for visitors. The average temperature rises slightly to 16°C (60°F), with daily highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F), while nighttime lows remain comfortable at 10°C (51°F). This month marks a transition, as the temperatures reflect an upward trend compared to the previous months, maintaining a cozy feel throughout the day. The consistent average of 15°C (60°F) across many months highlights Popayán's stable climate, but May's subtle warmth encourages outdoor exploration and immersion in the city's rich cultural tapestry. As the season unfolds, this pleasant weather invites both locals and tourists to revel in the charm of this historic destination.
May in Popayán, Colombia brings a notable precipitation total of 258 mm (10.2 in), marking it as a significant contributor to the region's lush landscapes. This month typically sees about 23 rainy days, continued from the heavy downpours of March and April, which recorded the highest levels of precipitation at 324 mm and 291 mm respectively. The rainfall in May begins to taper off as the region transitions into the drier months ahead. Despite this reduction, May's statistics still highlight a consistent pattern of substantial rainfall that characterizes the pre-winter months in Popayán, ensuring that the vibrant greenery of the area remains prominent and thriving.
In May, Popayán, Colombia, experiences a peak in humidity, reaching a significant 88%. This surge in moisture marks a notable transition from the previous months, where humidity levels gradually increased from 74% in January to 81% in April. Following May, the humidity dips slightly to 85% in June but remains relatively high compared to the dryer months of August and September, showcasing the city's overall humid climate. The trend indicates that as the year progresses, particularly into the early rainy season, residents and visitors alike must prepare for the lush, tropical atmosphere that defines Popayán during this time.
In Popayan, Colombia, May maintains an extreme UV Index of 17, similar to the preceding months of March and April, both reaching 19. The consistent trend of high UV exposure across these months indicates that sun safety is paramount, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern is a reminder for residents and visitors alike to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, when outdoors. As the month transitions into June, the UV Index dips slightly to 15, yet it still underscores the importance of vigilance under the sun. For detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Popayan UV Index.
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In Popayán, Colombia, May shines brightly with an impressive 276 hours of sunshine, contributing to the region's vibrant atmosphere. As spring unfolds, the sunlight in May continues a pattern of gradually increasing daylight that begins each year. Following a slightly lower total in April, May's hours reflect a delightful uptick, seamlessly transitioning into the sunniest months. This trend amplifies into June and July, where residents and visitors revel in the abundant sunshine, peaking at 307 hours in July. Such consistency not only enhances daily activities but also positions May as an ideal time for outdoor explorations and cultural festivities in this picturesque city.
In May, Popayán, Colombia, experiences a 12% chance of sunny weather, a slight improvement from the preceding months of April (6%) and March (8%). While this percentage may not suggest a wealth of bright sunny days, it indicates the slow transition towards more favorable weather patterns as the year progresses. Following May, the likelihood of sunshine increases in June (13%) and July (19%), hinting at a gradual rise in clear skies leading into the mid-year. Overall, while May might not be the sunniest month, it serves as a stepping stone towards brighter days ahead in Popayán.
In Popayan, Colombia, the daylight duration presents an intriguing pattern throughout the year. Beginning with 11 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen until February, where they peak at 12 hours. This consistent 12-hour stretch continues from March through October, embracing the vibrant middle of the year with ample sunlight. As November approaches, daylight dwindles once more, reverting back to 11 hours, before reaching its annual low in December. This rhythm of daylight not only highlights the equatorial nature of Popayan but also offers a delightful balance of light and darkness across the seasons.
In Popayán, Colombia, the month of May continues a trend of mild winds, mirroring the average wind speed of 1.4 m/s (3 mph) seen throughout the previous months. This gentle breeze creates a comfortable atmosphere, ideal for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. As the year progresses towards the summer months, wind speeds begin a gradual ascent, peaking in July at 2.1 m/s (5 mph). Thus, May marks the transition point where breezes are consistent yet soothing, setting the stage for the invigorating winds of summer that follow.
Weather in Popayan varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Popayan, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In May, the weather tends to be warmer and more humid compared to January, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, with 258 mm (10.2 in) spread over 23 days, contributing to the high humidity level of 88%. On the other hand, January has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), but it has a lower average temperature of 15°C (60°F). Precipitation in January is also less, totaling 185 mm (7.3 in) across 19 days and accompanied by a humidity level of 74%. For more detailed insights about January's climate, you can check Popayan weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, both months feature similar average temperatures, hovering around 16°C (60°F) with maximums reaching 24°C (75-76°F). However, May is characterized by higher humidity levels at 88%, making it feel more muggy compared to February's more comfortable 71%. Additionally, May experiences significantly more precipitation, with a total of 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days, compared to February’s 226 mm (8.9 in) over 22 days. This increased rainfall in May suggests a more pronounced wet season. For more details on February's weather, refer to Popayan weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it’s clear that both months offer mild temperatures, but with some notable differences. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging around 15°C (60°F). This month experiences higher precipitation, totaling 324 mm (12.8 in) over 27 days, and a slightly lower humidity level at 78%. On the other hand, May sees slightly warmer temperatures ranging from 10°C (51°F) to 24°C (75°F), with an average close to 16°C (60°F). However, it also has a higher precipitation level of 258 mm (10.2 in) spread across 23 days, along with increased humidity at 88%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Popayan weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, both months show mild temperatures with April having a slightly cooler average of 15°C (60°F) compared to May's average of 16°C (60°F). While the minimum daily temperature is virtually the same, the maximum temperature in May reaches up to 24°C (75°F), slightly warmer than April's 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is quite significant in both months, but April experiences a higher total of 291 mm (11.5 in) over 26 days, whereas May sees 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days. Additionally, May has a higher humidity level of 88% compared to April's 81%. For a detailed look at April's weather, check out Popayan weather in April.
In May, the weather is generally warmer with average temperatures reaching up to 16°C (60°F) and maximums of 24°C (75°F), while June sees a slight drop in both average and maximum temperatures, peaking at 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in May at 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days, compared to June's 158 mm (6.2 in) over 21 days, indicating a drier month. Humidity levels are also quite similar, with May exhibiting 88% and June at 85%. For more detailed information, you can explore Popayan weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, May is characterized by slightly warmer temperatures, with average highs reaching 24°C (75°F), while July sees a max temperature of 23°C (74°F). May is also significantly wetter, with 258 mm (10.2 in) of precipitation over 23 days compared to July’s 70 mm (2.8 in) over 14 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 88%, while July experiences a more comfortable humidity level of 75%. For more details, you can check Popayan weather in July.
In comparison to May, August in Popayan shows a slight decrease in average temperatures, with min temperatures reaching 9°C (48°F) and max temperatures peaking at 25°C (76°F). Both months share a similar average temperature of 16°C (61°F), but August is notably drier, receiving only 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, compared to May's substantial 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days. Additionally, the humidity in August is considerably lower at 64%, making it feel less muggy than the more humid May, which sits at 88%. For more detailed information on August weather, you can check Popayan weather in August.
May and September exhibit quite distinct weather patterns despite their similar average temperatures. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, September sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 25°C (76°F) while experiencing much less rainfall at 138 mm (5.4 in) across 17 days and lower humidity at 69%. For more detailed insights into September's climate, you can check out Popayan weather in September.
May and October offer similar temperature ranges, with May slightly warmer at an average of 16°C (60°F) compared to October's 15°C (60°F). However, the maximum temperatures in both months are comparable, peaking at 24°C (75°F) in May and 25°C (78°F) in October. In terms of precipitation, both months are quite wet, with May receiving 258 mm (10.2 in) over 23 days, while October sees a marginal increase with 262 mm (10.3 in) over 26 days. Humidity levels are also fairly high in both months, but May is slightly more humid at 88% compared to October's 80%. For a detailed look at October weather, visit Popayan weather in October.
In comparing the weather in May and November, both months exhibit moderate temperatures, with daily highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F) in each case. However, May tends to be slightly warmer overall, averaging 16°C (60°F) compared to November's average of 15°C (60°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in November, accumulating 351 mm (13.8 in) over 29 days of rain, versus 258 mm (10.2 in) across 23 rainy days in May. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with May at 88% and November slightly lower at 85%. For more details on November weather specifically, you can refer to Popayan weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, both months exhibit similar average maximum temperatures, hovering around 24°C (75°F). However, May experiences slightly warmer minimum temperatures, averaging 10°C (51°F) compared to December's 9°C (49°F). Precipitation levels are fairly comparable, with May receiving 258 mm (10.2 in) across 23 days, while December sees a marginally higher total of 261 mm (10.3 in) over 25 days. Humidity remains high in both months, although December is slightly less humid at 82% compared to May's 88%. For a detailed look at December's weather conditions, visit Popayan weather in December.
May in Popayán brings a noticeable shift in weather, characterized by its high humidity levels and significant precipitation, which sets it apart from other months. While average temperatures remain mild, with pleasant highs and cooler nights, the frequency of rainy days—23 in total—creates a lush, vibrant landscape perfect for exploring the city's natural beauty. This month’s weather often feels more humid, making it a unique experience compared to the drier months that precede and follow it. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns throughout the year, check out Popayan Climate.