Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Baghdad, Iraq, is characterized by sizzling temperatures and a hint of dry warmth. The mercury soars with maximums reaching an astonishing 47°C (117°F), while the average settles at a balmy 31°C (88°F). With minimums dipping only to 17°C (63°F) during the cooler nights, it's essential to stay hydrated and seek shade as humidity levels hover around a comfortable 32%. Expect minimal rain, with just 6 mm (0.2 in) recorded over two days, making for predominantly dry and sunny conditions perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
In May, Baghdad experiences a significant rise in temperatures, signaling the transition into the hot summer months. With a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) and an average of 31°C (88°F), the city becomes noticeably warmer as the days grow longer. The maximum temperature peaks at a scorching 47°C (117°F), highlighting a sharp upward trend from the milder days of early spring. This month marks a pivotal change, as temperatures climb toward the extremes seen in June and July, prompting residents and visitors alike to adapt to the heat. Overall, May serves as a prelude to the intense summer temperatures that characterize Baghdad's climate.
In May, Baghdad experiences a notable decline in precipitation, recording only 6 mm (0.2 in) distributed over just 2 days. This marks a significant drop from the previous months, with April's rainfall at 23 mm (0.9 in) over 4 days, indicating the onset of the arid summer season. As the city transitions into the hotter months, rainfall becomes increasingly sparse, foreshadowing the drier conditions that dominate June through August, when no measurable precipitation is recorded at all. This trend underscores Baghdad's climate's stark shift from early spring wetness to the prolonged dryness of the summer months.
In Baghdad, Iraq, May marks a continuation of the drying trend that begins in the early spring months. With humidity dropping to 32%, it is one of the drier periods leading into the scorching summer. This decrease follows the already low humidity of 39% in April, showcasing a substantial shift toward arid conditions as the year progresses. Interestingly, relative humidity is at its highest during the winter months, peaking at 56% in December. However, as temperatures rise from June onwards, the air becomes even drier, reaching a stark 16% humidity in both July and August. This steady decline towards the peak summer months reflects the region's characteristic shift to a hot and dry climate, punctuated by higher humidity levels during the cooler months.
In May, Baghdad experiences a significant rise in the UV Index, peaking at 12, which categorizes it as extreme exposure. This sharp increase from the very high levels seen in the preceding months underscores the need for heightened awareness regarding sun safety, as unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. The trend observed throughout the year reveals a gradual escalation in UV intensity, notably spiking in March and April, before reaching its zenith in May. It's crucial for residents and visitors alike to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, especially during the early summer months. For more information and timely updates, visit Baghdad UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May in Baghdad is a radiant time, boasting 375 hours of sunshine, which marks a significant increase from the previous months. Following a steady rise from January's 225 hours, the sunshine hours reach their peak in July with 388 hours, showcasing a warm onset to summer. As spring transitions to summer, it's clear that the days are growing longer and more luminous, with May serving as a vivid transition point. The trend showcases an upward trajectory in sunlight, suggesting that those in Baghdad are treated to an abundance of bright days as they prepare for the hotter months ahead. This seasonal shift not only enhances the city’s vibrancy but also invites both locals and visitors to embrace outdoor activities under the extended sunny spells.
As May rolls in, Baghdad experiences a significant boost in sunshine, boasting an impressive 83% chance of sunny weather. This trend indicates a subtle yet noticeable increase from April’s 68%, marking May as a strong precursor to the summer months ahead. Following May, the city transitions to almost guaranteed sunshine with June culminating in a remarkable 99% chance of clear skies. This consistent rise in sunny weather from spring into summer not only enhances the vibrancy of the city but also encourages outdoor activities, making May a delightful time to bask in Baghdad's warm climate before the peak summer heat sets in.
In Baghdad, Iraq, the arrival of May marks a pivotal transition in daylight duration, maintaining 13 hours of sunshine, similar to April. This pleasant span provides a delightful balance between day and night as spring gives way to the warmer summer months. Following May, daylight extends further into 14 hours in June and July, peaking before gradually tapering off with the arrival of autumn. Throughout the year, a consistent pattern emerges: shorter days in the colder months of January through March, which gradually lengthen as spring unfolds, illustrating the enchanting rhythm of daylight that accompanies the shifting seasons in this vibrant city.
In Baghdad, the winds of May whisper at an average speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph), slightly less than the preceding month's breeze. This subtle decline from April's brisk 3.7 m/s marks a gentle transition as Iraq moves from the spring season toward the heat of summer. While May's winds are still moderate, they herald the approaching warmth typical of the region, with June expected to ramp up with a notable increase to 4.7 m/s (11 mph). Overall, May serves as a pivotal moment, balancing the refreshing air of spring with the impending heat of summer, reflecting a dynamic shift that characterizes Baghdad's climate trends.
Weather in Baghdad varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Baghdad, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In May, Baghdad experiences much warmer weather compared to January, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a sweltering maximum of 47°C (117°F), while January offers cooler conditions with temperatures between -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). The average temperature in May reaches 31°C (88°F), significantly higher than January's average of 12°C (54°F). Additionally, May is relatively dry with only 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation over 2 days and a humidity level of 32%. In contrast, January sees more rain, accumulating 20 mm (0.8 in) over 3 days and higher humidity at 51%. For more detailed insights on January weather, you can visit Baghdad weather in January.
Comparing the weather in May and February reveals a stark contrast in temperatures and conditions. May typically experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and an average around 31°C (88°F), while February sees considerably cooler temperatures, starting as low as -1°C (30°F) with an average of only 14°C (58°F). In terms of precipitation, February is notably wetter, recording 40 mm (1.6 inches) over 5 days, compared to May's minimal 6 mm (0.2 inches) over just 2 days. Additionally, February has higher humidity levels at 49%, while May boasts a drier climate with only 32% humidity. For a more detailed look at February's weather, you can visit Baghdad weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, it's evident that May experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with average highs reaching 31°C (88°F) and maximums soaring to 47°C (117°F). In contrast, March offers much cooler conditions, with average highs around 19°C (66°F) and maximums peaking at 38°C (101°F). Additionally, March is notably wetter, receiving 30 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over five days, whereas May sees limited rainfall of only 6 mm (0.2 in) across just two days. Humidity levels are also higher in March at 48%, compared to May’s 32%. For more details, you can visit Baghdad weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a notable increase in temperature. While April enjoys a mild average temperature of 24°C (76°F), May heats up significantly with an average of 31°C (88°F), peaking at a scorching 47°C (117°F). Precipitation also diminishes from April to May; April records 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain over 4 days, whereas May only sees 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days. Furthermore, humidity levels are higher in April at 39%, compared to May's 32%. For a more detailed understanding, explore Baghdad weather in April.
In May, temperatures in Baghdad range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a scorching maximum of 47°C (117°F), with an average temperature of 31°C (88°F). While there is minimal precipitation at 6 mm (0.2 in) over two days, the humidity is notably higher at 32%. In contrast, June sees a rise in both average and maximum temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 36°C (97°F), peaking at 49°C (121°F). Notably, June is dry, with no recorded precipitation, and humidity drops to 22%. This stark transition highlights the increasingly extreme heat as summer approaches. For more information, visit Baghdad weather in June.
May and July present markedly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a scorching maximum of 47°C (117°F), with an average of 31°C (88°F). The month experiences some precipitation, totaling 6 mm (0.2 in) over two days and a humidity level of 32%. In contrast, July is even hotter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 27°C (81°F) to a staggering maximum of 52°C (126°F), resulting in an average temperature of 39°C (103°F). Notably, July is dry with no recorded precipitation and a lower humidity level of 16%. For more details on July's climate, check out Baghdad weather in July.
May and August in Baghdad present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a high of 47°C (117°F), with an average temperature of 31°C (88°F). This month experiences minimal precipitation, totaling just 6 mm (0.2 in) over 2 days, along with a humidity level of 32%. In contrast, August brings even higher temperatures, with a minimum of 26°C (78°F), an average of 38°C (101°F), and a peak reaching 50°C (123°F). Notably, August is entirely dry, recording no precipitation and a humidity level of only 16%. For a detailed overview, you can check Baghdad weather in August.
May and September in Baghdad offer distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 47°C (117°F), with an average temperature of 31°C (88°F) and minimal precipitation of 6 mm over 2 days, coupled with a humidity level of 32%. In contrast, September experiences slightly higher temperatures, averaging 35°C (96°F), with minimums of 20°C (68°F) and maximums reaching 49°C (121°F). Notably, September is much drier, with no recorded precipitation and a lower humidity level of 23%. For more details about September's weather in Baghdad, check out Baghdad weather in September.
May and October present striking differences in weather, with May showcasing warmer temperatures and a higher maximum that can reach up to 47°C (117°F). The average temperature in May is around 31°C (88°F), whereas October offers a milder climate with an average of 28°C (83°F) and a maximum of 43°C (110°F). Precipitation is minimal in both months, with May recording 6 mm over 2 days and October slightly lower at 5 mm over just 1 day. Additionally, October experiences a higher humidity level at 37%, compared to May's 32%. For more details on what to expect, check out Baghdad weather in October.
May and November present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and can reach a blistering maximum of 47°C (117°F), while average temperatures hover around 31°C (88°F). The month experiences low precipitation at only 6 mm (0.2 in), occurring over just 2 days, and a dry humidity level of 32%. In contrast, November brings a notable drop in temperature, with minimums of 8°C (47°F), daytime averages around 20°C (68°F), and maximums reaching 36°C (97°F). This month is also characterized by increased rainfall, accumulating 39 mm (1.5 in) over 4 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 52%. For more detailed information, visit Baghdad weather in November.
May and December in Baghdad present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 17°C (63°F), an average of 31°C (88°F), and a scorching maximum of 47°C (117°F). The month features relatively low humidity at 32% and minimal rainfall, totaling just 6 mm (0.2 in) across 2 days. In contrast, December brings much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). This month sees increased precipitation, accumulating 26 mm (1.0 in) over 3 days, along with higher humidity at 56%. For more detailed insights about December weather, you can check Baghdad weather in December.
As May unfolds in Baghdad, the weather shifts dramatically, showcasing a striking contrast to the cooler months. With temperatures soaring to a maximum of 47°C (117°F), the average heat settles around a warm 31°C (88°F), making it the precursor to the summer's relentless heat. The low humidity levels at 32% provide some relief, though the rare 6 mm of precipitation across just two days reminds us that the dry season is firmly taking hold. This transition into the scorching summer heat is best appreciated through the lens of the city’s unique character; for those curious about what the rest of the year holds, detailed insights can be found at Baghdad Climate.