Last updated: August 21, 2025
Experience the vibrant May weather in Harar, Ethiopia, where temperatures range from a pleasant minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a sunny maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 20°C (69°F). This month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, contributing to the lush landscapes and rich flora in the region. With a moderate humidity level of 58%, the climate offers a refreshing atmosphere ideal for exploration and enjoyment of this historic city. Whether you're wandering through its ancient alleyways or savoring local cuisine, May in Harar promises a delightful blend of warmth and vitality.
In May, Harar, Ethiopia, enjoys a delightful blend of mild temperatures, as the city transitions deeper into its dry season. With a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), days are pleasantly warm, peaking at 30°C (86°F). This month's temperatures reflect a subtle consistency from the previous months, indicating a stable climate that's neither too hot nor too cool. As the warmth settles in, May serves as an inviting precursor to the slightly cooler and more variable weather of the following months, allowing both locals and visitors to revel in the comfortable atmosphere. With minimal fluctuations and a delightful backdrop, May in Harar offers an enjoyable respite before the cooler June sets in.
In May, Harar, Ethiopia experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, receiving an impressive 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days of rainfall. This marks a notable transition from the drier months preceding it, with April also showing increased moisture at 113 mm but fewer rainy days. As the region shifts fully into its wet season, May stands out as a peak month, highlighting the lush transformation of the landscape as the rainfall feeds local ecosystems. This trend continues into June, albeit with a sharp drop in precipitation and days with rain, illustrating the characteristic variability of Harar's climate. Overall, May serves as a crucial turning point, bridging the dry season with the vibrant, wet months ahead.
In May, Harar, Ethiopia experiences a notable shift in humidity, with levels soaring to 58%—a significant increase from the 31% seen in March. This rebound marks a transition from the drier months of early spring to the more humid conditions of late spring and early summer. Following May, humidity gradually increases, peaking in November at 74%, indicating the onset of the rainy season. The pattern suggests that while the dry months of January to March present a comfortable climate, the humidity steadily rises, creating a lush and vibrant environment as the year progresses toward the wet season. This fluctuation underscores the dynamic climate within Harar, where May serves as a pivotal month, bridging the gap between dry and humid conditions.
In May, Harar, Ethiopia, experiences a high UV Index of 15, placing it firmly in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of elevated UV levels persists from previous months, maintaining an Index that has hovered between 15 and 16 since March. Such consistently high UV readings throughout the first half of the year underscore the need for sun protection, as residents and visitors alike face a significant risk of skin damage. As the sun's intensity remains formidable, it’s crucial to stay informed about daily UV levels. For more detailed information, visit Harar UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Harar, Ethiopia, May shines brightly with an impressive 342 hours of sunlight, contributing to the region's vibrant atmosphere. This month stands out within a generally sunny year, as it follows a trend of increasing daylight from January's 281 hours to March's peak of 347 hours. After a slight dip in April, May's sunshine reaffirms the region's consistent warmth, complemented by the surrounding months that maintain a generous average of around 330 to 345 hours. This favorable climate fosters a lively environment, encouraging social activities and showcasing the stunning landscapes that make Harar a unique jewel in Ethiopia.
As we look into the likelihood of sunny weather in May in Harar, Ethiopia, there’s a noticeable decline in sunshine compared to the preceding months. While January boasts a robust 80% chance of sun, the figures gradually taper off, hitting 50% in April. By May, the likelihood drops significantly to just 38%, making it one of the cloudier months. This trend continues into June, where the sunshine prospects slightly improve to 47%, but remain relatively low compared to early months of the year. Thus, if you're planning a visit in May, expect a higher chance of overcast skies than the earlier part of the year.
In Harar, Ethiopia, the daylight duration exhibits a consistent and rhythmic pattern throughout the year. From January to February, the sun graces the region with a steady 11 hours of daylight, nudging slightly upward as March and April bring a gentle increase to 12 hours. This moderate expansion of daylight extends through May, transitioning seamlessly into the mid-year months of June, July, and August, where the length remains constant at 12 hours. As autumn approaches in September, the duration stabilizes again before tapering back to 11 hours from October through December. This predictability in daylight not only influences daily activities but also enriches the cultural rhythms of Harar.
In Harar, Ethiopia, the winds begin to soften in May, marking a subtle transition into the mid-year months. With an average wind speed of 1.8 m/s (4 mph), May experiences a slight decline from the breezier April, indicating a calmness that embraces the landscape. This gentle air prevails as the month gives way to the more invigorating winds of June and July, where speeds increase to 2.8 m/s (6 mph) and 2.9 m/s (7 mph), respectively. Observing the broader trend, the year starts with relatively steady winds in the early months before peaking mid-year, only to taper off again towards winter. May stands out as a moment of tranquility amidst these fluctuations, inviting a serene appreciation of Harar's unique ambiance.
Weather in Harar varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Harar, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In May, the weather is typically warmer and more humid compared to January, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). The month brings significant rainfall, averaging 142 mm (5.6 in) spread over about 19 days, contributing to a lush environment. In contrast, January experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). It is notably dry, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation over the course of the month and no rainy days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 58%, but the weather in January is far less variable and more stable. For more detailed insights into January’s climate, check out Harar weather in January.
May and February exhibit some notable similarities and differences in their weather patterns. Both months share an average temperature of 20°C (69°F); however, May features a slightly wider temperature range, with minimums of 13°C (55°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F), compared to February's min of 11°C (52°F) and max of 29°C (85°F). A significant distinction lies in precipitation levels: May experiences 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain over 19 days, whereas February has a mere 10 mm (0.4 in) with just one day of precipitation. Additionally, humidity is higher in May at 58%, compared to February’s 45%, indicating that May tends to feel more humid and wetter overall. For more details on February's weather, visit Harar weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, we can see some notable differences. Both months feature similar high temperatures, peaking at 30°C (86°F), but May experiences slightly warmer average temperatures at 20°C (69°F) compared to March's 21°C (71°F). March, however, has a lower minimum temperature, with a low of 12°C (54°F), compared to May's 13°C (55°F). One of the most significant contrasts is the amount of precipitation; May receives much more rain, with 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, while March sees only 32 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels are notably higher in May at 58%, compared to March's 31%. For further insights into March weather, you can check Harar weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, both months share similar temperature ranges, with minimums of 13°C (55°F) and maximums reaching around 30°C (86°F) in May and 30°C (87°F) in April. However, April boasts a slightly higher average temperature at 21°C (70°F) compared to May's 20°C (69°F). Notably, May experiences significantly more precipitation, with 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, compared to April's 113 mm (4.4 in) across 16 days. Additionally, May's humidity level is higher at 58%, contrasted with April's 34%. For a closer look, you can refer to Harar weather in April.
In May, the weather tends to be warmer, with average temperatures around 20°C (69°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). This month also sees considerable rainfall, with 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation spread over 19 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 58%. In contrast, June experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 19°C (67°F) and maximums of 29°C (84°F). The precipitation drops significantly to 53 mm (2.1 in) over just 11 days, leading to a decrease in humidity to 44%. This shift makes June a drier and less humid month compared to May. For more detailed information, you can check Harar weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, May tends to be warmer and wetter. The minimum temperature in May averages around 13°C (55°F), with a high of 30°C (86°F), while July's temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Additionally, May sees significantly more rainfall, with a total of 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, compared to July's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels also differ slightly, with May at 58% and July at 51%. For more detailed information about July's weather in Harar, you can refer to Harar weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, one can observe distinct variations. May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures reaching 20°C (69°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), while August sees slightly cooler conditions with an average of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is more significant in May, totaling 142 mm over 19 days, compared to August's 94 mm over 20 days. Humidity also increases slightly in August, reaching 64%, compared to May's 58%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Harar weather in August.
In comparing the weather of May and September, both months experience similar minimum temperatures, averaging around 13°C (55°F). However, May tends to be warmer overall, with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F) and a maximum reaching 30°C (86°F), compared to September's average of 19°C (67°F) and maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, May is significantly wetter, receiving 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 19 days, whereas September sees only 89 mm (3.5 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels are higher in September at 66%, compared to May's 58%, which can make the air feel more muggy as the month progresses. For a closer look at September's weather specifics, check out Harar weather in September.
May and October present a notable contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, contributing to a moderate humidity level of 58%. In contrast, October maintains a similar average temperature of 20°C (67°F) but sees slightly cooler minimum and maximum values, ranging from 10°C (51°F) to 28°C (83°F). Additionally, October has less precipitation, totaling 80 mm (3.1 in) across 11 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 73%. For more details on the October weather, visit Harar weather in October.
May's weather is typically warmer and wetter than that of November. With minimum temperatures around 13°C (55°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F), May features an average temperature of 20°C (69°F) and significant precipitation of 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days. In contrast, November experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 27°C (82°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Additionally, November boasts considerably less rainfall, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) across just 4 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 74%. For a detailed overview of November weather, you can check this link: Harar weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, coupled with a humidity level of 58%. In stark contrast, December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), along with a lower average of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is minimal in December, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) over just one day, while humidity rises to 68%. For more details on the December weather, visit Harar weather in December.
As May rolls into Harar, residents experience a noticeable shift in weather patterns compared to earlier months. Daytime temperatures peak around a warm 30°C, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploration. However, the month also brings about increased precipitation, with almost 20 rainy days contributing to a humidity level of 58%. This combination of warmth and moisture sets May apart, transitioning from the drier spells of previous months to a lush, green environment that revitalizes the landscape. If you're planning a visit, be prepared for both sunshine and showers, which are essential for the region's blooming flora. For a comprehensive look at weather trends throughout the year, explore Harar Climate.