Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Erbil, Iraq showcases a striking contrast in temperatures, with a peak reaching 43°C (109°F), offering a warm climate for outdoor activities. The average temperature hovers around 25°C (78°F), while the nights can cool down to a minimum of 10°C (51°F), providing a comfortable escape from the daytime heat. With 24 mm (0.9 in) of rainfall spread across 5 days, this month marks the transition into the hotter summer months, though the relative humidity remains at a moderate 54%. Visitors can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional rain, making it an ideal time to explore Erbil's rich history and culture.
In May, Erbil, Iraq, experiences a significant transition from the cooler spring months to the scorcher of summer. Average temperatures soar to a pleasant 25°C (78°F), with daily highs reaching up to 43°C (109°F), making it one of the hottest months in the region. The nights also warm up, with temperatures not dropping below 10°C (51°F). This sharp increase in heat follows the gradual warming trend observed from the previous months, where April averages were a milder 19°C (67°F). As Erbil basks in the early summer sun, outdoor activities and gatherings become increasingly popular, drawing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the vibrant, blossoming scenery. The clear skies and rising temperatures herald the approach of the dry season, perfectly setting the stage for the months ahead.
In May, Erbil experiences a significant drop in precipitation, accumulating only 24 mm (0.9 in) over the course of just 5 days. This decrease follows a wetter April, where rainfall reached 74 mm (2.9 in), setting the stage for the hot and dry summer months that follow. The contrast is stark when considering the peak rainfall in March at 118 mm (4.7 in), underscoring May's transition towards a more arid climate. As the region gears up for the dry spell of June through August, these early signs of dwindling precipitation mark the end of the spring rains, highlighting the seasonal shifts that define Erbil’s climate.
May in Erbil, Iraq, marks a notable decrease in humidity, with levels around 54%—a significant drop from the preceding months. This transition underscores a broader trend of reducing humidity as the region shifts from the cooler, wetter spring months into the heat of summer. Following April's 59% humidity, May provides a refreshing respite before the air becomes increasingly arid in June, plummeting to just 39%. This trend not only enhances the warm weather experience but also signals a clear indication of the stark seasonal changes that Erbil undergoes, with the humidity continuing to decline as the summer intensifies.
In May, Erbil, Iraq, experiences a dramatic rise in the UV Index, soaring to a striking 11, which categorizes the exposure as extreme. This marks a significant leap from the more moderate levels observed in earlier months, highlighting the increasing intensity of sunlight as summer approaches. With a quick burn time of just 10 minutes, it’s crucial for residents and visitors alike to take precautions against harmful UV rays during this period. The trend continues into June and July, maintaining the extreme classification, before tapering off slightly in August. As the seasons transition, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for health and safety. For more detailed information, visit Erbil UV Index.
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As May arrives in Erbil, Iraq, the city basks in the radiant glow of longer days, boasting an impressive 387 hours of sunshine. This month marks a significant uptick from the previous months, highlighting a steady increase in daylight that began with 207 hours in January and has consistently climbed, culminating in an even more sun-kissed June with 399 hours. Notably, the burgeoning daylight in May not only enhances the city's vibrant atmosphere but also invites both locals and tourists to embrace outdoor activities. As summer approaches, the trend of growing sunshine hours continues, promising plentiful sun and warmth through the bustling months ahead, before gradually tapering off in the autumn.
As May approaches in Erbil, Iraq, the likelihood of sunny weather significantly increases, peaking at an impressive 80% chance of sunshine. This upward trend from previous months—where January starts at 53%, gradually rising through February's 68%, March's 57%, and April's 66%—highlights the arrival of warmer days. Following May, the sun continues to dominate, reaching a staggering 98% in June and maintaining high levels throughout the summer months. As the seasons shift, May not only marks a transition into the sun-drenched days of summer but also serves as a reminder of the region's increasingly bright and welcoming climate.
As spring gives way to summer in Erbil, Iraq, daylight duration experiences a delightful upward trend. In May, the city enjoys 14 hours of daylight, a significant increase from the 11 hours in March. This abundant sunlight not only enhances the vibrant atmosphere but also invites residents to relish outdoor activities. Following May, daylight levels remain steady at 14 hours in June and July, before gradually tapering off in August. As the year progresses, daylight recedes, bringing us back to 10 hours in November and ultimately 9 hours in December. This cyclical variation beautifully illustrates how Erbil transitions through the seasons, offering a unique blend of light and warmth throughout the year.
In May, Erbil experiences a gentle uptick in its average wind speed, reaching 2.8 m/s (6 mph), which is slightly higher than the preceding months. This increase signals the transition into the warmer summer months, where consistent breezes become more prevalent. Notably, March and April also recorded similar winds at 2.6 m/s (6 mph), suggesting a steady and calming airflow that characterizes the region during this time of year. As we move into June and July, the wind speed remains stable, further emphasizing that May serves as a bridge between the mild spring winds and the robust breezes of early summer. Overall, this gradual rise enhances the vibrant atmosphere of Erbil as it shakes off the chill of spring, inviting a refreshing start to the summer season.
Weather in Erbil varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Erbil, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 10°C (51°F), averaging a warm 25°C (78°F), and reaching up to 43°C (109°F) at times. The month sees relatively low precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over just 5 days, coupled with a moderate humidity level of 54%. In stark contrast, January experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), peaking at 21°C (71°F). This month is also significantly wetter, receiving 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days and higher humidity at 74%. For more detailed information, you can check Erbil weather in January.
May and February showcase strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (51°F) to a scorching 43°C (109°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F), making it the warmer month overall. Precipitation is relatively low at 24 mm (0.9 in) over just 5 days, and humidity sits at 54%. In contrast, February experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging around 10°C (50°F). This month is also much wetter, with total precipitation reaching 95 mm (3.8 in) across 10 days and higher humidity levels at 73%. For more details on February weather, you can visit Erbil weather in February.
The weather in May is significantly warmer compared to March, with average temperatures soaring from 14°C (57°F) in March to a much higher 25°C (78°F) in May. While March experiences a cool minimum temperature of 2°C (35°F), May’s nights are milder, not dropping below 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is markedly lower in May, with only 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain over about 5 days, in stark contrast to March’s 118 mm (4.7 in) spread over 13 days, highlighting March as a wetter month. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in March at 71%, compared to 54% in May, indicating a more comfortable climate as the seasons transition. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Erbil weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, May typically sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C and an average of 25°C, whereas April has cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C and an average of 19°C. The maximum temperature in May can reach up to 43°C, significantly higher than April's maximum of 38°C. In terms of precipitation, April is considerably wetter, receiving 74 mm over 9 days compared to May's 24 mm over just 5 days. Additionally, the humidity is slightly higher in April at 59%, compared to May's 54%. For a detailed look at the specifics, refer to Erbil weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 43°C (109°F), with an average of 25°C (78°F). The month experiences some precipitation, totaling 24 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days, and maintains a humidity level of 54%. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (62°F) to a peak of 46°C (114°F), averaging around 32°C (89°F). June is significantly drier, receiving just 1 mm of precipitation with no rainy days and a lower humidity of 39%. For more detailed information, you can visit Erbil weather in June.
May and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a warm maximum of 43°C (109°F), with an average of 25°C (78°F). The month also experiences some rainfall, accumulating 24 mm (0.9 in) over about five days, and maintains a humidity level of 54%. In contrast, July brings significantly higher heat, with minimum temperatures starting at 23°C (74°F) and soaring to an average of 35°C (96°F), peaking at a scorching 47°C (118°F). Remarkably, July sees no rainfall at all, with 0 mm recorded over the month and a much lower humidity of 27%. For more detailed insights, visit Erbil weather in July.
May and August present significantly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a comfortable minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a peak of 43°C (109°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F). This month experiences moderate humidity at 54% and receives about 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over 5 days, indicating some variability in conditions. In contrast, August is much hotter, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and soaring to a maximum of 47°C (117°F), averaging a sweltering 35°C (94°F). Notably, August is remarkably dry, with no recorded precipitation, humidity dropping to 24%, providing a stark contrast to the more moderate May climate. For a detailed look at the weather conditions in August, you can explore Erbil weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to late summer. In May, temperatures vary significantly, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and reaching up to 43°C (109°F), accompanied by moderate humidity at 54% and light precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over about 5 days. In contrast, September experiences warmer average temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and maximum soaring to 45°C (113°F), but with notably lower humidity at 29% and dry conditions, recording no precipitation at all. For more insights on September weather, you can view the details here: Erbil weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, both months exhibit mild minimum temperatures around 10°C (51°F), making them comfortable for outdoor activities. However, May tends to be warmer overall, with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F) and potential highs reaching 43°C (109°F), in contrast to October’s averages of 24°C (75°F) and maximums of 39°C (102°F). Additionally, May experiences slightly higher humidity at 54% compared to October's 45%. Rainfall is more frequent in May, with 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over about 5 days, while October sees less rain, totaling 16 mm (0.6 in) over just 2 days. For more detailed insights on October's weather, visit Erbil weather in October.
May and November exhibit strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a comfortable 10°C (51°F) at their lowest to a scorching high of 43°C (109°F), with an average of 25°C (78°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over about five days, accompanied by a humidity level of 54%. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F), peaking at 31°C (87°F). It also sees increased rainfall of 47 mm (1.9 in) across six days and higher humidity at 61%. For more detailed information about the weather during this month, check out Erbil weather in November.
May and December present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a scorching maximum of 43°C (109°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over just 5 days, and the humidity sits at a comfortable 54%. In contrast, December brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), resulting in an average of 11°C (51°F). It is also notably wetter, with a total precipitation of 108 mm (4.3 in) spread over 10 days and higher humidity levels at 78%. For a detailed look at the December weather, visit Erbil weather in December.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Erbil showcases a striking contrast to the cooler months that precede it. With temperatures averaging around 25°C but peaking at a sweltering 43°C, the month marks a significant rise in warmth, making it one of the hottest times of the year. While the average humidity hovers around 54%, May continues to experience some rainfall, albeit limited to about 24 mm over just 5 days, providing a brief respite from the heat. This combination of warmth and sporadic precipitation sets the stage for the dry, scorching summer months ahead. For a deeper understanding of how these patterns evolve throughout the year, visit Erbil Climate.