Last updated: August 21, 2025
In May, Addis Ababa experiences a mild yet dynamic climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 28°C (84°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (64°F), offering a refreshing atmosphere. The month's weather is marked by a minimum temperature dipping to 8°C (47°F), perfect for cool evenings. Precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in), falls on approximately 16 days, contributing to the region's lush greenery. With humidity levels hovering around 66%, the air feels comfortably damp, enhancing the vibrant charm of this bustling Ethiopian capital.
In May, Addis Ababa experiences mild and pleasant temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a comfortable average of 18°C (64°F). The maximum temperature reaches a manageable 28°C (84°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. As the rainy season approaches, the weather remains relatively stable compared to previous months. Compared to April, the highs drop slightly, but the city maintains its cool charm, consistently providing a refreshing respite from the heat. This balanced climate, with minimal fluctuations, sets the stage for vibrant local festivals and cultural events flourishing throughout the month.
In May, Addis Ababa experiences a significant surge in precipitation, with 221 mm (8.7 in) of rain falling over the course of 16 days. This marks a notable increase from April's rainfall of 161 mm (6.3 in), highlighting May as a key month in the region's rainy season. The steady rise in precipitation amounts, peaking in the months to come, reflects the transition from the earlier dry months, where January only saw 3 mm and February just 22 mm. As the rainy season progresses, June takes the crown with 329 mm (13.0 in) and 24 rainy days, illustrating a trend of escalating moisture that significantly shapes the ecosystem and agricultural practices in this vibrant Ethiopian city.
As May rolls in, Addis Ababa experiences a notable surge in humidity, jumping to 66%—the highest level recorded so far this year. This increase follows a gradual rise from April's 43%, signaling the transition into a wetter season. The contrasting trend is evident when comparing May to the preceding months; prior to this peak, humidity levels fluctuated between 41% in February and a low of 34% in March. As the months progress toward the summer, the trend continues to soar, peaking in the subsequent months with July and August reaching an impressive 83% and 88% respectively. This shift highlights not only a significant seasonal change but also the growing atmospheric moisture that characterizes Addis Ababa’s climate as it approaches its rainiest periods.
As we step into May, Addis Ababa continues to experience an extreme UV Index, lingering at a noteworthy 15. This measurement signifies that exposure to harmful UV rays remains high, with a brief burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Following a trend set in the preceding months, May's UV Index reflects a slight dip from its peak in March and April, but still emphasizes the need for sun protection. Notably, the UV Index has consistently stayed within the extreme exposure category throughout the year, demonstrating the persistent intensity of the sun in this vibrant city. For those planning outdoor activities, it’s crucial to stay informed about conditions such as these. Stay protected and learn more about the UV levels in the region Addis Ababa UV Index.
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As May arrives in Addis Ababa, residents can bask in an inviting blend of warmth and sunshine, enjoying 343 hours of daylight. This month stands out as a continuation of the bright trend seen throughout the earlier part of the year, following March's peak with 349 hours and April's still impressive 336 hours. The pleasant weather in May suggests a gradual transition from the peak sunshine of early spring to the slightly cooler months ahead, with June recording 325 hours of sunlight. Throughout the year, sunshine remains relatively abundant, particularly from January to April, consistently exceeding 300 hours. This pattern highlights Addis Ababa's enviable climate, making May an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration in this vibrant Ethiopian capital.
In May, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, takes a noticeable dip, with a 36% chance of sunshine. This marks a stark contrast to the warmer months leading up to it, where March boasts a high of 68% and even April maintains a respectable 48%. As the wet season begins to creep in, the chances of sun dwindle significantly, giving way to the cooler and cloudier days of June that further diminish to 37%. This trend suggests that while early spring offers more favorable conditions, May ushers in the transitional period towards the rainier months, prompting a shift in expectations for those seeking sunshine in the Ethiopian capital.
In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, daylight duration exhibits a captivating rhythm throughout the year. January and February welcome the year with a consistent 11 hours of daylight, setting a steady pace. As spring unfolds in March, daylight gently expands to 12 hours, a trend that continues into the warmer months of April, May, June, July, and August, where the sun graces the city with a full 12-hour embrace. This generous daylight stretches into September before gradually retreating back to 11 hours in October, November, and December. The resulting pattern reveals a serene stability with prolonged daylight in the mid-year months, ideal for adventure and exploration, while the winter months offer a quieter, cozier atmosphere as daylight diminishes.
In May, Addis Ababa experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of just 1.7 m/s (4 mph), marking a noticeable dip from the previous months. This trend of decreasing wind speeds, though still mild, reflects the overall calmer atmosphere as the city transitions into the heart of the dry season. Following this pattern, the wind in May is among the least forceful of the year, echoing the serene vibe of the Ethiopian highlands. As the rainy season approaches in June, a subtle rise is anticipated, yet the pleasant, softer breezes of May invite both residents and visitors to enjoy the city's captivating landscapes in a tranquil setting.
Weather in Addis Ababa varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Addis Ababa, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present distinctly different weather profiles. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a pleasant average of 18°C (64°F), peaking at 28°C (84°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days, resulting in a higher humidity level of 66%. In contrast, January offers cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), while peaking at 27°C (81°F). Notably, January is drier, experiencing only 3 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, along with a lower humidity of 50%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Addis Ababa weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, May tends to be warmer and wetter. The average temperature in May rises to 18°C (64°F), with maximum values reaching up to 28°C (84°F), while February's average stands at 17°C (62°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). However, May experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 16 days, compared to February's mere 22 mm (0.9 in) spread across just 4 days. Additionally, May's humidity is higher at 66%, contrasting with February's 41%, making May feel more humid and lush. For more detailed information about February's weather, visit Addis Ababa weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, both months feature similar average temperatures, with March averaging 18°C (64°F) and May also at 18°C (64°F). However, May experiences a greater temperature range, with maximums reaching up to 28°C (84°F), slightly lower than March's peak of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation levels differ significantly; May sees 221 mm (8.7 in) over 16 days, indicating a much wetter month compared to March, which only has 37 mm (1.4 in) over 8 days. Additionally, May is notably more humid, with a humidity level of 66%, contrasted with March's 34%. For more details, check Addis Ababa weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, both months see similar temperature ranges, with May experiencing a marginal increase in average temperature to 18°C (64°F) and a maximum of 28°C (84°F). However, April boasts a slightly higher maximum temperature of 29°C (85°F). When it comes to precipitation, May is significantly wetter, receiving 221 mm (8.7 in) of rain over 16 days, compared to April's 161 mm (6.3 in) over 15 days. Notably, humidity also rises in May to 66%, contrasting with April’s lower humidity level of 43%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, we can observe some notable differences. May experiences warmer averages with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), while June has slightly cooler average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation also increases in June, with 329 mm (13.0 in) over 24 days compared to May's 221 mm (8.7 in) over 16 days. Additionally, humidity in June is slightly lower at 60%, compared to May's 66%, making the weather feel a bit less sticky despite the increased rainfall. For more details, check out the Addis Ababa weather in June.
May and July present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 16 days, accompanied by a moderate humidity level of 66%. In contrast, July is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 22°C (73°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). However, it experiences much heavier rainfall, accumulating 386 mm (15.2 in) over 31 days, resulting in higher humidity at 83%. For more details on the July weather, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in July.
May and August present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 221 mm (8.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days and maintains a humidity of 66%.
In contrast, August is cooler overall, with temperatures spanning from 10°C (50°F) to 22°C (72°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). However, it is significantly wetter, receiving 407 mm (16.0 in) of rain across 31 days, leading to a higher humidity level of 88%.
For a more detailed look at August weather, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in August.
When comparing the weather in May and September, one can observe distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May typically experiences a mild range of temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 28°C (84°F), averaging around 18°C (64°F). In contrast, September is cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging just 15°C (60°F).
While May sees significant rainfall with a total of 221 mm (8.7 in) spread over 16 days, September experiences even heavier precipitation at 305 mm (12.0 in) over 27 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 81% compared to May's 66%. For more specific insights on September weather, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days and a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). Rainfall in October is much lighter, totaling 65 mm (2.5 in) over just 7 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 78%. For more detailed information, visit Addis Ababa weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 16 days, contributing to a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, November features cooler temperatures, with a range from 3°C (38°F) to 25°C (77°F), and an average of 15°C (60°F). Notably, precipitation is much lower in November, at only 15 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, resulting in higher humidity levels at 79%. For more detailed information about the weather in November, you can refer to Addis Ababa weather in November.
In May, temperatures in Addis Ababa range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 221 mm (8.7 in) over approximately 16 days, contributing to a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, December features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Remarkably, December sees virtually no rainfall, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, while the humidity remains slightly higher at 67%. For more information, check out Addis Ababa weather in December.
As May arrives in Addis Ababa, it marks a notable shift in the weather patterns compared to earlier months. With temperatures peaking at about 28°C (84°F) and averaging around 18°C (64°F), the days become warmer, inviting a pleasant climate that makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. However, increased humidity and a significant rise in precipitation—averaging 221 mm (8.7 inches) over about 16 days—usher in a more tropical feel, distinguishing May from the drier months preceding it. This combination of warmth and rainfall heralds the approach of the rainy season, showcasing the dynamic nature of Addis Ababa's weather. For more insights on the city's evolving climate, check out Addis Ababa Climate.