May Weather in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Last updated: August 21, 2025

May in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo offers a warm embrace, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F). The weather sees a comfortable minimum of 10°C (49°F), creating a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities. Rainfall is minimal, amounting to just 6 mm (0.2 in) over two days, ensuring that the lush landscape remains vibrant without overwhelming humidity levels, which hover around 66%. This balance of warmth and moisture makes May an inviting month for both residents and visitors alike.

May Temperature in Lubumbashi

In May, Lubumbashi enjoys a pleasant climate marked by a minimum temperature of 10°C (49°F), making it one of the cooler months of the year. The city experiences an average temperature of 20°C (69°F), maintaining a comfortable atmosphere for both locals and visitors. As daytime highs reach a balmy 30°C (86°F), the warmth is perfect for outdoor activities while the evenings cool down pleasantly. This month continues a gradual downward trend in temperatures since January, providing a refreshing break before the chill of the following months. Overall, May serves as a delightful transition period, showcasing Lubumbashi's unique climate charm.

May Weather in Lubumbashi: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Lubumbashi, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Lubumbashi, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec707070706964646974767471
Data source: Temperature data for Lubumbashi generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Lubumbashi

In May, Lubumbashi experiences a dramatic decrease in precipitation, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain falling across just 2 days. This marks a significant shift from the wetter months earlier in the year, where rainfall often exceeded 200 mm and the number of rainy days was high. Following the peak rainy season in January through March, May’s parched conditions herald the onset of the dry season as the region transitions into June, which sees no recorded precipitation. This stark contrast highlights the seasonal variability in Lubumbashi's climate, emphasizing the importance of adapting to these fluctuations for both agriculture and water resource management.

May Precipitation Trends in Lubumbashi

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lubumbashi, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Lubumbashi, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec222255227566000129130227
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Lubumbashi

May marks a noticeable shift in humidity levels in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as it dips to 66%, presenting a refreshing contrast to the heavy moisture characteristic of the earlier months. Starting from a peak of 91% in January, humidity gradually declines throughout the first half of the year, culminating in April's 81% before significantly dropping in May. This trend continues into June and July, where humidity plummets to around 59% and 52%, respectively. The transition reflects the approaching dry season and offers a more comfortable atmosphere, enticing those who find the earlier months overly sultry. As the year progresses, moisture levels stabilize, suggesting a shift to drier conditions in the latter months.

May Average Humidity in Lubumbashi

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lubumbashi, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Lubumbashi is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%82%66%59%52%43%44%55%78%92%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Lubumbashi

In May, Lubumbashi experiences a significant UV Index of 12, falling within the extreme exposure category, which means that the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure remains notably high. With a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes, residents and visitors alike should take extra precautions against sun damage, as this trend of extreme UV levels has persisted since the beginning of the year. Interestingly, while the UV Index does show a slight decline from the peak months of January and February, the risk is still substantial as the region transitions toward June. For more detailed information on UV safety throughout the year, check out Lubumbashi UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lubumbashi for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lubumbashi in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in Lubumbashi typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161715141210101112121416
Data source: Lubumbashi May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Lubumbashi

As May unfolds in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, residents bask in an impressive 340 hours of sunshine, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. This delightful increase continues a trend seen since January, where hours of sunlight gradually rise each month, showcasing the warmth and vitality of the region as it transitions into the dry season. Following April's generous 323 hours, May not only brightens up the landscape but also sets the stage for the soaring sunshine of the approaching dry months of June and July. The sun-drenched days invigorate both nature and the community, inviting all to revel in the exhilarating energy of a landscape bathed in golden light.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lubumbashi: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lubumbashi experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec232h273h305h323h340h325h334h336h332h344h325h293h
Data source: Lubumbashi May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lubumbashi During May

As May rolls around in Lubumbashi, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather significantly increases, soaring to 74%. This marks a remarkable uptick from the 45% chance presented in April, reflecting a clear trend toward more favorable conditions as the region transitions into the heart of its dry season. Following May, sunny prospects continue to hold steady, reaching 75% in June and July. Yet, it's August that truly shines, with an impressive 87% chance of sun, indicating that the peak of sunny weather is just around the corner. Such a delightful shift sets the stage for vibrant outdoor activities and exploration throughout this tropical paradise.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Lubumbashi

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lubumbashi throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Lubumbashi experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6%11%14%46%74%75%75%87%71%50%42%34%
Data source: Lubumbashi May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lubumbashi in May

In Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the rhythm of daylight exhibits a fascinating trend throughout the year. From January to March, residents enjoy a generous 12 hours of daylight, creating a bright and vibrant atmosphere. As the days transition into April and May, there is a slight reduction to 11 hours, signaling the approach of the cooler months. This consistent daylight duration remains steady until August, after which September ushers in a return to longer days, regaining that cherished 12 hours once more. Such fluctuations reflect the dynamic interplay between the seasons, providing an engaging backdrop for daily life in this bustling city.

Average Daylight Hours in Lubumbashi for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lubumbashi throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 42m12h 27m12h 8m11h 49m11h 33m11h 26m11h 30m11h 43m12h 1m12h 21m12h 38m12h 47m
Data source: Lubumbashi daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Lubumbashi

As May unfolds in Lubumbashi, the winds are a gentle yet consistent presence, with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph). This mirrors April's slightly brisker 2.7 m/s, highlighting a transitional climate as the dry season approaches. The winds during this month are part of a trend that sees an overall increase during the mid-year months, peaking in July at 3.1 m/s. Notably, May's breezes contribute to a comfortable ambiance, offering a refreshing contrast to the rising temperatures that characterize the impending winter months. As the year progresses, the wind speeds tend to stabilize, illustrating a seasonal rhythm that is both predictable and reassuring for those in this vibrant city.

Average May Wind Speed in Lubumbashi

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lubumbashi, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.01.81.82.72.6 m/s2.63.12.72.92.62.01.9
Data source: Lubumbashi May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Lubumbashi Compares to Other Months

Weather in Lubumbashi varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Lubumbashi, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

May and January in Lubumbashi present contrasting weather patterns. May typically showcases milder temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (49°F) and a comfortable average around 20°C (69°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Additionally, this month sees very little precipitation, averaging only 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days, coupled with a humidity level of 66%. In stark contrast, January experiences warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). However, it is significantly wetter, receiving a substantial 222 mm (8.8 in) of rainfall over 24 days, resulting in much higher humidity at 91%. For more details, you can check out Lubumbashi weather in January.

Comparing the weather in May and February reveals distinct differences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (49°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences low precipitation, totaling just 6 mm (0.2 in) over 2 days, resulting in a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, February is noticeably warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to an average of 21°C (71°F) and peaking at 30°C (86°F). However, it also sees significantly more rainfall, with 255 mm (10.0 in) over 24 days and higher humidity at 89%. For more details, you can check Lubumbashi weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, May offers pleasantly warm temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (49°F), an average of 20°C (69°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). In contrast, March sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), but also comes with significantly more rain—227 mm (8.9 in) over 26 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 87%. May, on the other hand, is much drier, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation over just 2 days and a lower humidity of 66%. For a detailed overview of March weather conditions, check out Lubumbashi weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, April experiences slightly higher temperatures overall with a minimum of 13°C (57°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), while May has a minimum of 10°C (49°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F). Notably, April is much wetter, with 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, compared to May's minimal 6 mm (0.2 in) spread over just 2 days. Additionally, April's humidity level is higher at 81%, compared to May's 66%. For further details, you can check Lubumbashi weather in April.

In comparing the weather of May and June, May tends to be milder with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F), whereas June sees a slight dip to an average of 18°C (65°F). May's temperatures range from a min of 10°C (49°F) to a max of 30°C (86°F), while June's temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from a min of 8°C (47°F) to a max of 28°C (82°F). Notably, May experiences some precipitation with 6 mm falling over 2 days, whereas June enjoys dry conditions with no recorded precipitation. Relative humidity is also higher in May at 66% compared to June's 59%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Lubumbashi weather in June.

May typically features milder temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (49°F) and averages reaching up to 20°C (69°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is more frequent in May, with about 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation over 2 days and higher humidity levels at 66%. In contrast, July presents cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (48°F) to an average of 18°C (64°F), and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Notably, July experiences no precipitation, resulting in a dry climate and a reduced humidity level of 52%. For more detailed information, you can check Lubumbashi weather in July.

May and August present notable differences in weather, despite having similar average temperatures. In May, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (49°F) to a warm 30°C (86°F), accompanied by light precipitation of 6 mm (0.2 in) over 2 days and a higher humidity level of 66%. In contrast, August boasts slightly warmer daytime temperatures, reaching up to 32°C (90°F), but benefits from completely dry conditions, with 0 mm of precipitation and just 43% humidity. For more insights into the weather specifics for August, you can check Lubumbashi weather in August.

May and September offer distinct weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (49°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month sees a bit of rainfall, with 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation occurring over 2 days, and humidity levels around 66%. In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a peak of 34°C (94°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is minimal, with just 1 mm (0.0 in) and no rainy days, resulting in lower humidity at 44%. This difference makes September a drier and warmer month compared to May. For more details, check Lubumbashi weather in September.

May and October weather exhibits notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C to a maximum of 30°C, with an average of 20°C and relatively low precipitation of just 6 mm over 2 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere at 66%. In contrast, October features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C and a maximum reaching 35°C, leading to an average of 25°C. However, it also sees increased rainfall, totaling 29 mm over 5 days, and a decrease in humidity to 54%. For more detailed insights, you can check Lubumbashi weather in October.

May and November in Lubumbashi present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (49°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month is relatively dry, receiving only 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation over about 2 days and a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, November experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and reaching up to 35°C (95°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). However, it is much wetter, with significant rainfall of 130 mm (5.1 in) over 18 days and a higher humidity of 78%. For more detailed information on November weather, check Lubumbashi weather in November.

May and December in Lubumbashi present quite contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (49°F) at night to a warm 30°C (86°F) during the day, with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month sees minimal rainfall, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days, and humidity levels at a comfortable 66%. In stark contrast, December experiences higher temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (91°F), averaging 22°C (71°F). However, this month also brings significant rainfall, totaling 227 mm (8.9 in) across 26 days, resulting in high humidity at 92%. These differences make May a drier and more temperate month compared to the wet and humid conditions of December. For more detailed information, check out Lubumbashi weather in December.

Compare Lubumbashi's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Lubumbashi

May in Lubumbashi brings a delightful shift in weather, characterized by mild temperatures and relatively low precipitation. With an average temperature hovering around 20°C (69°F), residents and visitors can enjoy the pleasant warmth without the oppressive heat that often accompanies the summer months. The humidity level remains moderate, creating an inviting atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. Unlike the heavier rains of the preceding months, May typically sees only a couple of rainy days, allowing for more time to explore this vibrant region. To learn more about what to expect throughout the year, check out Lubumbashi Climate.