May Weather in Basrah, Iraq

Last updated: August 21, 2025

May in Basrah, Iraq is characterized by sizzling temperatures, with maximums reaching a scorching 48°C (118°F) and an average hovering around 34°C (93°F), providing a taste of the impending summer heat. Nighttime brings a welcome dip to a minimum of 20°C (68°F), offering brief relief. Despite the intensity of the sun, rain is scarce, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation measured across just one day, and the humidity remains relatively low at 32%. This combination results in a dry, arid climate that's typical for the region during this time of year, making May a month to prepare for the even hotter months ahead.

May Temperature in Basrah

In May, Basrah, Iraq experiences a noticeable shift as temperatures begin to soar, setting the stage for the scorching summer ahead. The month starts with a minimum temperature of 20°C (68°F), but by midday, the heat peaks at an impressive 48°C (118°F), while the average hovers around 34°C (93°F). This trend indicates a steady climb in temperatures as the days lengthen, leading to what will soon become the intense heat of June and July. The leap from the milder spring months to the sweltering conditions of summer is stark, showcasing Basrah's shift toward extreme heat. As May progresses, residents and visitors alike prepare for the hot months ahead, with the energy of the city buzzing even under the blazing sun.

May Weather in Basrah: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Basrah, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Basrah, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec576170819310210510398867060
Data source: Temperature data for Basrah 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 Basrah

In Basrah, Iraq, May marks a significant decline in precipitation, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) recorded over just one day. This trend is emblematic of the region's transition into the hotter months, where rainfall becomes increasingly scarce. After a modest amount of rain in prior months—9 mm in January and peaking at 19 mm in February—the rainfall dwindles, paving the way for a dry summer. Reflecting this shift, June and July register almost no precipitation, highlighting Basrah's arid climate as it ventures deeper into the dry season. It’s a reminder of how quickly weather patterns can evolve in this part of the world, as the lush imagery of a springtime downpour gives way to the relentless sun of summer.

May Precipitation Trends in Basrah

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Basrah, 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 Basrah, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91916104010077438
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Basrah

In May, Basrah experiences a dip in humidity levels, averaging around 32%, which continues the downward trend observed from the previous months. This decrease from April's 39% sets the stage for an increasingly arid summer, as the region transitions into the sweltering heat of June, where humidity plummets further to 17%. The gradual drop in humidity from January's 45% nearly to June's lows illustrates a distinct seasonal shift that characterizes Basrah's climate, emphasizing the dry conditions that dominate during the summer months. This pattern not only affects daily life but also influences agricultural practices, making it essential for residents and farmers to adapt to the fluctuating moisture levels throughout the year.

May Average Humidity in Basrah

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Basrah, 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 Basrah is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46%38%42%39%32%17%11%12%17%33%48%50%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Basrah

In May, Basrah, Iraq experiences a dramatic surge in UV exposure, with an UV Index reaching a staggering 11, categorizing it as extreme. This marks a significant shift from the previous months, where UV levels were high or very high, indicating that sun safety becomes crucial as the burn time reduces to just 10 minutes. This trend of increasing UV exposure continues into June, maintaining that extreme level, before slightly tapering off in the following months. The data underscores the importance of taking protective measures against the sun during this time; for more detailed information, visit the Basrah UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Basrah for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Basrah 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 Basrah typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5791011111098754
Data source: Basrah 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 Basrah

As May unfolds in Basrah, Iraq, the city basks in 371 hours of glorious sunshine, marking a peak in the spring season. This month continues a trend of increasing daylight, following April's 333 hours, and sets the stage for the sun-drenched days of summer. June and July promise even more brilliance, with sunshine hours escalating to 381 and 386 hours, respectively. This steady climb from the chilly beginning of the year shows a captivating seasonal shift, transforming the landscape and energizing the atmosphere. As the year progresses, Basrah’s residents can revel in the vibrant warmth that May heralds, nurturing both nature and spirit alike.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Basrah: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Basrah 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec227h276h330h333h371h381h386h368h336h315h278h275h
Data source: Basrah May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Basrah During May

In Basrah, Iraq, the month of May boasts an impressive 86% chance of sunny weather, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities. As spring unfolds, the likelihood of sun shows a noticeable upward trend from the previous month, April, when the chance dipped to 66%. This increase is part of a broader pattern as the region transitions toward the hotter summer months, where the probabilities soar to 99% in both June and July. Thus, May serves as a transitional period, offering an ideal blend of warmth and sunshine, encouraging residents and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors before the peak heat of summer sets in.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Basrah

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Basrah 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 Basrah experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec76%68%83%66%86%99%99%95%99%93%78%46%
Data source: Basrah May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Basrah in May

As the calendar turns from January to May in Basrah, Iraq, residents witness a gradual increase in daylight, transforming the landscape with an extra hour of sunshine each month. Starting with 10 hours of daylight in January, the duration steadily climbs to 13 hours by May, offering more time for outdoor activities and community engagement. This increase peaks in June at 14 hours, creating a vibrant atmosphere as summer sets in. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins to taper off gently, returning to 12 hours in September and dropping back to 10 hours by December. This rhythm of light not only highlights the transitional seasons but also reflects the cultural and agricultural activities that ebb and flow with the changing day lengths.

Average Daylight Hours in Basrah for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Basrah throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 24m11h 5m11h 59m12h 55m13h 41m14h 4m13h 52m13h 11m12h 18m11h 23m10h 36m10h 11m
Data source: Basrah daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Basrah

In Basrah, Iraq, the month of May experiences a gentle average wind speed of 3.9 m/s (9 mph), mirroring the breezy yet mild atmosphere of April. As spring transitions toward summer, winds remain relatively calm compared to the more robust bursts seen in the warmer months of June, where speeds nearly double to 7.4 m/s (17 mph). This slight dip from April’s winds suggests a peaceful interlude before the onset of the summer heat, as the city prepares for the sweltering July and August. The overall trend indicates a gradual increase in wind intensity moving from spring into summer, offering a refreshing reminder of nature's fluid temperament in Basrah.

Average May Wind Speed in Basrah

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Basrah, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.33.94.64.93.9 m/s7.45.14.45.34.33.64.0
Data source: Basrah May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Basrah Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present strikingly different weather patterns. May boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average high reaching 34°C (93°F), while January sees much cooler conditions, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average high of only 14°C (57°F). In terms of precipitation, January receives more rain (9 mm or 0.4 in) compared to May, which averages just 4 mm (0.2 in) over one rainy day. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in January at 45%, contrasting with the drier conditions of May, which has a humidity of only 32%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this month, you can check out Basrah weather in January.

May and February present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average high reaching a scorching 34°C (93°F), peaking at a sweltering 48°C (118°F). The month remains relatively dry, with just 4 mm of precipitation over 1 day and humidity at a comfortable 32%. In contrast, February experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), peaking at 32°C (91°F). February is also wetter, receiving 19 mm of rain over 3 days, coupled with slightly higher humidity at 38%. For more detailed information on February weather, you can check Basrah weather in February.

In comparing the weather of March and May, it's clear that May enjoys significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average high of 34°C (93°F), while March's temperatures range from a cooler 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 41°C (106°F). Additionally, March experiences more precipitation, totaling 16 mm (0.6 in) over two days compared to May's minimal 4 mm (0.2 in) on just one day. Humidity levels are also higher in March at 42%, versus 32% in May, making March feel more humid despite its lower average temperatures. For more detailed information, you can visit Basrah weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, May experiences significantly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 34°C (93°F), peaking at a scorching 48°C (118°F). In contrast, April's temperatures are more moderate, ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to an average of 27°C (82°F), with a maximum of 43°C (110°F). Additionally, May is drier with only 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation occurring over just one day, while April sees more moisture, with 10 mm (0.4 in) spread over two days. Humidity levels also differ, with April being relatively more humid at 39% compared to May's 32%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Basrah weather in April.

In May, the weather in Basrah features a temperature range that starts at a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and peaks at a scorching maximum of 48°C (118°F), with an average temperature of 34°C (93°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) recorded over just one day, and humidity levels hover around 32%.

Conversely, June brings even hotter conditions, with a minimum temperature of 26°C (79°F), an average of 39°C (102°F), and a maximum reaching 51°C (124°F). Remarkably, June has no recorded precipitation, and humidity levels drop significantly to 17%. For more details on June's weather patterns, you can check Basrah weather in June.

In comparing the weather conditions of May and July, it is clear that July experiences significantly higher temperatures. While May sees a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 34°C (93°F), July's lows begin at 29°C (84°F) and reach a scorching average of 41°C (105°F). Additionally, July boasts extreme maximum temperatures, soaring up to 52°C (127°F), compared to May’s maximum of 48°C (118°F). Both months are characterized by minimal precipitation, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) falling in May over one day, while July records negligible rainfall of just 1 mm (0.0 in) across the entire month. Humidity levels also differ, with May at 32% and July dropping dramatically to only 11%. For more details on July weather in Basrah, you can visit Basrah weather in July.

In May, temperatures in Basrah range from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) to a maximum of 48°C (118°F), with an average temperature of 34°C (93°F). The month experiences minimal precipitation, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) over the course of 1 day and a humidity level of 32%. In contrast, August brings even higher temperatures, with a minimum of 28°C (82°F), an average of 39°C (103°F), and a maximum of 51°C (125°F). This month is notably dry, with no recorded precipitation and only 12% humidity. The stark difference in humidity and precipitation highlights the extreme heat of August. For more detailed information, check out Basrah weather in August.

In comparing the weather between May and September, we find that both months feature high temperatures, but September typically sees slightly warmer conditions. May boasts temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) to a maximum of 48°C (118°F) with an average of 34°C (93°F). In contrast, September's temperatures begin at a higher minimum of 22°C (72°F) and can peak at 49°C (120°F), averaging 36°C (98°F).

Precipitation is minimal in both months, with May experiencing just 4 mm (0.2 in) across one day, while September is entirely dry with no recorded rainfall. Furthermore, humidity levels tend to be lower in September at 17%, compared to May's 32%, making the heat feel even more intense. For more detailed insights, you can visit Basrah weather in September.

May and October present contrasting yet mild weather experiences. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 34°C (93°F), peaking at a scorching 48°C (118°F), while the month sees minimal precipitation at only 4 mm (0.2 in) over just 1 day. Humidity during this month averages around 32%. In contrast, October boasts cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 30°C (86°F), reaching a maximum of 45°C (113°F). Although October has slightly more precipitation at 7 mm (0.3 in), it also only experiences rain on 1 day, with humidity hovering around 33%. For more information, you can check Basrah weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and an average high reaching 34°C (93°F), pushing up to a scorching 48°C (118°F). The precipitation is minimal at just 4 mm (0.2 in) over one day, accompanied by low humidity of 32%. In stark contrast, November brings a much cooler climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to an average of 21°C (70°F) and highs of 36°C (97°F). It also sees a significant increase in rainfall, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over six days and higher humidity levels at 48%. For more details, you can check Basrah weather in November.

The weather in May is characterized by significantly higher temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) to a scorching maximum of 48°C (118°F) with an average of 34°C (93°F). In contrast, December experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Additionally, May has low precipitation, averaging only 4 mm (0.2 in) over just one day, while December sees a notable increase in rainfall, with 38 mm (1.5 in) spread across four days. Humidity levels also vary, with May being relatively dry at 32%, compared to December's higher humidity at 50%. For more information, you can check out Basrah weather in December.

Compare Basrah's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Basrah

As May unfolds in Basrah, the scorching heat becomes a defining feature, with temperatures frequently reaching their peak. Unlike the cooler months that precede it, May offers a marked increase in warmth, with an average temperature that surges to a balmy 34°C (93°F), making outdoor activities a test of endurance. The low humidity level of 32% provides a slight respite from the intensity, yet the minimal precipitation—a mere 4 mm across just one day—offers scant relief. This stark difference from the cooler, wetter months signals the onset of summer, where preparations for the sweltering days ahead become essential. For a deeper understanding of the climatic transformations throughout the year, visit Basrah Climate.