May Weather in New Delhi, India

Last updated: August 21, 2025

New Delhi in May presents a dynamic weather profile, characterized by high temperatures that can soar up to 45°C (113°F), while the average hovers around 32°C (90°F). The month typically experiences a minimum temperature of 20°C (69°F), offering some reprieve from the daytime heat. Rainfall is relatively modest, with a total of 32 mm (1.3 in) occurring over five days, contributing to a humidity level of 27%. This combination of warmth and low precipitation makes May a quintessential early summer month in the bustling capital, where the vibrant city life continues amid the heat.

May Temperature in New Delhi

May marks the transition into the sweltering heat of New Delhi, with temperatures reaching a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F). The month begins with warmer evenings as the minimum temperature settles around 20°C (69°F), while daytime averages climb relentlessly to about 32°C (90°F). This notable increase from April's temperatures signals the onset of summer, a trend that will continue into June. Despite the heat, the city bustles with life, as residents adapt to the rising mercury, seeking cooler refuges to cope with the soaring temperatures. Overall, May sets the stage for the summer months, heralding the high temperatures that become synonymous with New Delhi's climate.

May Weather in New Delhi: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in New Delhi, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In New Delhi, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec556272848991888684786757
Data source: Temperature data for New Delhi generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in New Delhi

In May, New Delhi experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with 32 mm (1.3 in) recorded over approximately 5 days. This marks a slight increase from the drier preceding months, particularly April, which saw a mere 15 mm (0.6 in), and signals the approach of the monsoon season. As temperatures begin to rise, the rain is often welcomed to provide some relief from the heat. The rainfall in May is significantly less than what is seen in the months that follow, such as June and July, which are characterized by much heavier downpours. Overall, May acts as a transitional phase, yielding a refreshing prelude to the more intense rainfall patterns that dominate New Delhi's climate in the summer months.

May Precipitation Trends in New Delhi

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in New Delhi, 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 New Delhi, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42343415325020917514718119
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in New Delhi

As the sweltering heat of May descends upon New Delhi, India, the city experiences a slight increase in humidity to 27%. This level is a modest rise from April's low of 24%, signaling the gradual shift toward the monsoon season. However, it remains significantly lower compared to the humidity levels seen in the following months, where July and August are marked by a steep climb to 70% and an astonishing 89%, respectively. This transition highlights the contrasting climate dynamics in New Delhi, where the dry heat of the early months is soon enveloped in the moisture-laden air typical of its later summer. As May casts a bridge to the upcoming rainy season, residents can expect a gradual increase in humidity, setting the stage for the dramatic weather changes ahead.

May Average Humidity in New Delhi

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in New Delhi, 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 New Delhi is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec53%46%33%24%27%31%70%89%87%84%81%76%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in New Delhi

In May, New Delhi experiences a very high UV Index of 10, maintaining the intense exposure seen in the previous month. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it’s crucial for residents and visitors to take precautions against sun damage. This trend of elevated UV levels continues from April and is set to persist into June, indicating a peak in solar intensity during the pre-monsoon months. As summer approaches, the UV Index reaches its maximum in this period, highlighting the importance of sun safety practices. For more detailed information, you can visit New Delhi UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in New Delhi for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for New Delhi 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 New Delhi typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec56910101012129855
Data source: New Delhi 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 New Delhi

In May, New Delhi basks in an impressive 364 hours of sunshine, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. This bright stretch follows a gradual increase from 227 hours in January to 344 hours in April, showcasing a delightful trend of rising daylight as spring transitions into summer. Interestingly, after May, sunshine hours slightly decline in June with 355 hours, yet this dip is minimal compared to the abundance of light enjoyed earlier. The consistent growth in sunlight not only warms the city but also invigorates its vibrant culture, making May a truly radiant month in the heart of India.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in New Delhi: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours New Delhi 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec227h277h333h344h364h355h330h314h305h317h284h277h
Data source: New Delhi May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in New Delhi During May

As May approaches in New Delhi, India, the likelihood of sunny weather dips to 69%, marking a noticeable decline from the higher percentages of previous months like February (86%) and March (84%). This trend reflects the transition period as the city moves into the hotter summer months, with the promise of sunshine still lingering but becoming less assured. Following May, the chance of clarity further decreases significantly in July (31%) and August (40%), when the monsoon typically sweeps in. Thus, while May still offers a decent chance for bright days, it hints at the impending shift towards the rainy season, making it a fleeting window for basking in the sun.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in New Delhi

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in New Delhi 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 New Delhi experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec75%86%84%80%69%75%31%40%47%89%85%71%
Data source: New Delhi May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in New Delhi in May

In New Delhi, daylight duration experiences a notable transformation throughout the year. Beginning with 10 hours in January, the days gradually lengthen as spring approaches, reaching 12 hours by April. By May, the city enjoys a peak of 13 hours of daylight, marking the onset of summer. This extended sunshine continues through the following months, providing the same generous 13 hours until the end of August. As autumn arrives, daylight begins to shorten again, dropping back to 12 hours in September and returning to a 10-hour cycle by November and December. This cyclical pattern reflects a vibrant rhythm of seasonal change, inviting both residents and visitors to embrace the plentiful sunlight during the warmer months.

Average Daylight Hours in New Delhi for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in New Delhi throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 31m11h 9m11h 59m12h 51m13h 34m13h 55m13h 44m13h 7m12h 17m11h 26m10h 42m10h 20m
Data source: New Delhi daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in New Delhi

In May, New Delhi experiences a steady wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), mirroring the breezy conditions of January, yet slightly lower than the April highs. This consistent gentle breeze provides much-needed relief as temperatures begin to rise, creating a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities. The data reveals that the warmest months, from March to May, not only see an increase in temperature but also maintain a comparable wind speed, suggesting that while the heat intensifies, the winds remain a calming factor. As the city transitions into the hotter summer months of June and July, the wind speed dips slightly, indicating a potential calming of the air, yet the overall trends show that these mild breezes continue to play a significant role in New Delhi's climatic character throughout the year.

Average May Wind Speed in New Delhi

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in New Delhi, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.62.22.93.02.6 m/s2.52.52.42.32.32.22.2
Data source: New Delhi May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in New Delhi Compares to Other Months

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

In comparison to January, May experiences significantly higher temperatures, with minimums around 20°C (69°F) and maximums soaring up to 45°C (113°F), making it one of the hottest months of the year. In contrast, January offers a much cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation levels are also noteworthy; May sees about 32 mm (1.3 in) of rainfall across five days, while January has 42 mm (1.7 in) over three days, suggesting a wetter but cooler winter month. Additionally, the humidity in May is comparatively lower at 27%, while January experiences higher humidity levels at 53%. For those looking to learn more about January weather, you can visit New Delhi weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, notable differences emerge. May experiences significantly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and an average peak of 32°C (90°F), reaching up to 45°C (113°F) on the hottest days. In contrast, February's temperatures are much cooler, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F), and reaching a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Although both months see similar total precipitation at around 34 mm (1.3 in), February's rain typically falls over just 2 days compared to May's 5 days, indicating some contrast in rainfall distribution. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in February at 46%, compared to May's 27%. For more detailed information on February weather in New Delhi, visit New Delhi weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, it is evident that May brings significantly higher temperatures, with average highs reaching up to 45°C (113°F) compared to March's maximum of 39°C (102°F). While both months have similar precipitation levels, at 32 mm (1.3 in) for May and 34 mm (1.3 in) for March, May experiences slightly lower humidity at 27% compared to March’s 33%. This makes May hotter and drier overall, presenting a stark contrast to the milder temperatures and slightly more humid conditions of March. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can check out New Delhi weather in March.

In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, it is clear that May tends to be hotter and slightly more humid. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a maximum of 45°C (113°F), with an average of 32°C (90°F). In contrast, April has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 44°C (111°F), averaging at 29°C (85°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 32 mm (1.3 in) over 5 days, compared to April’s 15 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days. The humidity also rises in May at 27%, compared to April's 24%. For a more detailed look at April weather specifics, check out New Delhi weather in April.

May generally begins to transition into the sweltering summer in New Delhi, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to an average of 32°C (90°F) and reaching a high of 45°C (113°F). The month experiences about 32 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 5 days, along with a relatively low humidity of 27%.

In contrast, June sees slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums at 22°C (71°F) and an average of 33°C (91°F), while still hitting a maximum of 45°C (112°F). However, it also brings increased precipitation, totaling 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days, and a rise in humidity to 31%. For more detailed insights, you can visit New Delhi weather in June.

In comparing the weather of May and July, May generally boasts higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 45°C (113°F), while July’s maximum temperature is slightly cooler at 42°C (109°F). However, July experiences significantly more precipitation, with 209 mm (8.2 in) falling over 20 days, compared to May's 32 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days. Furthermore, July has a much higher humidity level at 70%, contrasting with May's lower humidity of 27%. For more detailed information on July's weather, you can check New Delhi weather in July.

May and August present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F), while the average temperature hovers around 32°C (90°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling only 32 mm (1.3 inches) over 5 days, with humidity levels at a comfortable 27%. In stark contrast, August is characterized by milder temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and a maximum of 37°C (99°F), averaging 30°C (86°F). However, it is significantly wetter, boasting 175 mm (6.9 inches) of rain over 20 days, and high humidity levels reaching 89%. For more detailed insights, check out New Delhi weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns. May boasts higher average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F), with an average temperature of 32°C (90°F). In contrast, September features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and a maximum of 38°C (100°F), averaging 29°C (85°F). While May experiences relatively low humidity at 27% and limited rainfall of 32 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days, September sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) spread over 13 days, accompanied by a much higher humidity level of 87%. For more detailed information, you can check New Delhi weather in September.

In May, temperatures in New Delhi can reach a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F), with an average of 32°C (90°F), making it one of the hottest months of the year. Humidity is relatively low at 27%, while precipitation occurs on about 5 days, totaling 32 mm (1.3 in). In stark contrast, October brings cooler weather with a maximum temperature of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F). October is characterized by higher humidity levels at 84% and significantly less rainfall, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) expected over 2 days. For more details on the unique weather conditions in October, visit New Delhi weather in October.

May and November present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures soar, with min temperatures around 20°C (69°F) and max temperatures reaching an impressive 45°C (113°F), alongside a relatively low humidity of 27%. With an average temperature of 32°C (90°F) and sporadic rainfall amounting to 32 mm over five days, May is known for its intense heat and dryness. In contrast, November experiences a significant drop in temperature, with lows of 8°C (48°F) and highs around 32°C (89°F). The average temperature is a more comfortable 20°C (67°F), and the humidity rises considerably to 81%. Additionally, November sees much less rain, with only 11 mm of precipitation over just one day. For more details on the weather in November, you can check New Delhi weather in November.

When comparing the weather in May and December, a stark contrast emerges. May features much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 20°C (69°F), average highs reaching a sweltering 32°C (90°F), and extremes soaring up to 45°C (113°F). Moreover, it has low humidity at 27% and sees about 32 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over five days. In contrast, December presents a much cooler climate, with minimum temperatures dropping to 4°C (39°F) and average highs around 14°C (58°F). The month experiences minimal rainfall, with only 9 mm (0.3 in) over just one day and a significantly higher humidity level at 76%. For more detailed insights, check out New Delhi weather in December.

Compare New Delhi's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in New Delhi

As May descends upon New Delhi, the city transforms into a vibrant tapestry of rising temperatures and increasing warmth, highlighting a stark contrast to the cooler months preceding it. With an average high of 32°C (90°F) and an occasionally sweltering peak reaching up to 45°C (113°F), residents experience a significant surge in heat, making it one of the hottest months of the year. While precipitation is minimal, with only a handful of rainy days, the relative humidity stays comfortably low around 27%, offering a dry heat that can be intense but also less oppressive than in more humid seasons. This unique blend of warmth and dryness in May sets the stage for the monsoon, making it a pivotal time in Delhi's climatic transition. For more insights into the city's weather patterns, visit New Delhi Climate.