May Weather in Kilifi, Kenya

Last updated: August 21, 2025

Experience the captivating May weather in Kilifi, Kenya, where temperatures fluctuate from a warm 22°C (72°F) at night to a sizzling 32°C (89°F) during the day, averaging a comfortable 26°C (79°F). This month brings substantial precipitation, with 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain recorded over 24 days, creating a lush, vibrant landscape. The air is often humid, with levels around 73%, adding to the tropical charm of this coastal paradise. Whether you're exploring the beautiful beaches or immersing yourself in local culture, Kilifi in May offers a uniquely refreshing experience.

May Temperature in Kilifi

In Kilifi, Kenya, the month of May marks a gentle transition in temperatures, offering a pleasant escape from the warmer preceding months. With a minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum reaching 32°C (89°F), May boasts an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), making it a comfortable time for both locals and visitors. While the average dips slightly from April’s 28°C (82°F), it remains pleasantly warm, perfectly embodying the allure of the coastal climate. As the region gears up for the upcoming wet season, the warmth invites outdoor adventures, whether it’s lounging on the beach or exploring the vibrant local culture. Overall, May in Kilifi is about balance, offering generous warmth with a hint of the refreshing breezes that come with the season’s change.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kilifi, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kilifi, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec818182827978777777798081
Data source: Temperature data for Kilifi 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 Kilifi

May marks a significant peak in precipitation for Kilifi, Kenya, with an impressive 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain falling over 24 days. This surge in rainfall contrasts sharply with the preceding months, particularly April, which already set the stage with 134 mm (5.3 in) across 27 days. The month of May not only doubles the precipitation of April but also enriches the lush landscapes, creating a vibrant environment that teems with life. Following May, the rains ease significantly, with June dropping to 74 mm (2.9 in), hinting that the dry season is soon approaching. This pattern showcases May as a critical transition point in Kilifi's climate, where the crescendo of rainfall brings both opportunity and challenge to the region.

May Precipitation Trends in Kilifi

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kilifi, 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 Kilifi, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242678134269744447631279779
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Kilifi

As the tropical charm of Kilifi, Kenya, unfolds throughout the year, May stands out with a notable rise in humidity, reaching 73%. This increase reflects the region's gradual transition into the wetter months, as the lush landscapes become increasingly vibrant. The higher humidity in May marks a shift from the more moderate levels recorded in the earlier months, dipping slightly in April with 62%. Following May, the humidity peaks in June at 78%, suggesting the onset of the rainy season, while the subsequent months maintain elevated levels, with November hitting a high of 84%. This consistent pattern illustrates a clear trend: Kilifi’s moisture-rich environment becomes more pronounced as the year progresses, fostering the lush beauty that the coastal region is known for.

May Average Humidity in Kilifi

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kilifi, 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 Kilifi is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62%63%63%62%74%78%71%66%67%74%84%77%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kilifi

In May, Kilifi, Kenya experiences a consistently high UV Index of 13, maintaining its status as an extreme exposure month, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This reflects a slight dip from the peak values observed earlier in the year, yet the risk remains significant. The trend shows that while the UV Index fluctuates slightly from January through April, it stays above the threshold of 11 from May onward, signifying a persistent need for sun protection. As the dry season continues, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant against UV radiation. For more detailed information, check the complete Kilifi UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kilifi for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kilifi 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 Kilifi typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141515141311111313131213
Data source: Kilifi 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 Kilifi

In Kilifi, Kenya, May shines brightly with an impressive 320 hours of sunshine, continuing the region's trend of abundant sunlight as the year progresses. Following the sunniest months of March and July, May's hours reflect a consistent pattern of warmth and brightness, making it a delightful time to bask in the tropical ambiance. The sunshine gradually increases from January's 288 hours to a peak in the latter half of the year, climaxing in December with 354 hours. This gradual rise not only enhances the charm of Kilifi but also sets a vibrant stage for outdoor activities and exploration amid its stunning coastal landscapes. As May transitions into the longer sun-filled days of June and beyond, the allure of Kilifi remains undeniable for both locals and visitors alike.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kilifi: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kilifi 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec288h322h347h315h320h328h347h348h340h344h338h354h
Data source: Kilifi May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kilifi During May

In Kilifi, Kenya, the likelihood of sunny weather tends to fluctuate throughout the year, peaking in the late months. In May, the chance of sunshine stands at 40%, making it slightly below the average for the surrounding months. As the region transitions from the rainy season, May offers a mix of cloudy skies and sunny spells, following April's lower 38% chance. Interestingly, sunshine chances increase notably in the subsequent months, with June and July returning to 45% and 40%, respectively. This pattern suggests that while May may not boast the brightest weather, it sets the stage for a gradual return to sunnier days as Kilifi heads into the latter half of the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kilifi

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kilifi 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 Kilifi experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44%33%50%38%40%45%40%43%56%54%56%44%
Data source: Kilifi May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kilifi in May

In Kilifi, Kenya, the daylight duration remains remarkably consistent throughout much of the year, with 12 hours of sunlight from January to April, and again from September to December. However, a subtle shift occurs in May, where daylight dips to 11 hours, signaling the onset of a transitional phase. This pattern of reduced daylight continues through to August, before returning to 12 hours in September. The consistency of the longer daylight hours reinforces the region's tropical climate, providing ample sunlight to support both daily activities and the rich biodiversity that thrives in this vibrant coastal area.

Average Daylight Hours in Kilifi for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kilifi throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 17m12h 12m12h 6m12h11h 56m11h 54m11h 54m11h 58m12h 4m12h 10m12h 16m12h 18m
Data source: Kilifi daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kilifi

In Kilifi, Kenya, the month of May marks a notable increase in wind activity, averaging a brisk 6.4 m/s (14 mph), making it one of the windiest months of the year. This uptick follows the steady rise observed from April’s 5.5 m/s (12 mph), highlighting a trend where the winds pick up as the year progresses. As May transitions into the winter months, the wind speeds are further accentuated, peaking in July at 6.6 m/s (15 mph) before gradually declining towards the end of the year. This seasonal pattern not only enhances Kilifi's coastal charm but also invigorates outdoor activities, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the refreshing breezes of this stunning coastal region.

Average May Wind Speed in Kilifi

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kilifi, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.13.83.65.56.4 m/s6.06.65.35.34.23.32.7
Data source: Kilifi May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kilifi Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather of May and January, we see notable differences in both precipitation and humidity. May features warmer temperatures, with an average of 26°C (79°F), peaking at 32°C (89°F) and experiencing higher humidity levels at 73%. However, it also comes with significant rainfall, receiving 269 mm (10.6 in) across 24 days. In contrast, January has a similar minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F) but boasts a slightly higher average of 27°C (81°F) and less humidity at 62%. Additionally, January is much drier, with only 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over just 6 days. For more detailed insights, you can check Kilifi weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, we notice a few key differences. February tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures around 27°C (81°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), while May averages a bit cooler at 26°C (79°F) and also reaches a maximum of 32°C. However, May experiences significantly more rainfall, with 269 mm (10.6 in) over 24 days compared to just 26 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days in February. Moreover, humidity levels are higher in May at 73%, compared to February's 63%. For more detailed information on February weather, you can check Kilifi weather in February.

May and March present distinct weather patterns, influenced by their positions in the seasonal calendar. March tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F). In contrast, May features slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 32°C (89°F) with an average of 26°C (79°F).

Precipitation levels also differ significantly; May is much wetter, receiving 269 mm (10.6 in) over 24 days compared to March's 78 mm (3.1 in) over just 14 days. Furthermore, humidity is higher in May at 73%, compared to March's 63%. For more detailed information about the weather conditions in March, you can check Kilifi weather in March.

In comparing the weather in May and April, we see a noticeable shift in both temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences slightly lower average and maximum temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C and a maximum of 32°C, contrasted with April's higher minimum of 24°C and maximum of 34°C. However, May is significantly wetter, receiving 269 mm of rain over 24 days compared to April's 134 mm over 27 days. Additionally, the humidity rises in May to 73%, surpassing April's 62%. This transition highlights a shift towards a more humid and rainy season in May. For further details on April weather, you can visit Kilifi weather in April.

In comparing the weather of May and June, May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (89°F). It also experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) across 24 days, leading to a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, June sees a slight decrease in average temperature to 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), along with much lower precipitation at 74 mm (2.9 in) spread over just 17 days. The humidity in June is slightly higher at 78%, making it feel somewhat muggy despite the reduced rain. For more details, visit Kilifi weather in June.

In May, temperatures are generally warmer with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), peaking at 32°C (89°F). However, this month also sees significant rainfall, with 269 mm (10.6 in) spread across 24 days and a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, July offers milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (71°F) to an average of 25°C (77°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). The month is much drier, receiving only 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days, and slightly lower humidity at 71%. For more details on July weather, you can check Kilifi weather in July.

In comparison to May, August features slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 25°C (77°F), compared to May's 26°C (79°F). The maximum temperatures in August peak at 30°C (86°F), which is 2 degrees lower than May's maximum of 32°C (89°F). Additionally, August is much drier, with only 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 15 days, whereas May experiences significantly more rainfall at 269 mm (10.6 in) spread across 24 days. This also results in lower humidity levels in August at 66%, compared to the higher humidity of 73% in May. For more detailed insights, check Kilifi weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), averaging around 26°C (79°F). This month is marked by high humidity levels at 73% and significant rainfall, with 269 mm (10.6 in) spread over 24 days. In contrast, September's weather is slightly cooler, with temperatures varying from 21°C (71°F) to 29°C (85°F), averaging 25°C (78°F). Rainfall is substantially reduced to 63 mm (2.5 in) over 19 days, and the humidity decreases to 67%. For more detailed information about September weather, you can visit Kilifi weather in September.

In comparing May and October weather, both months enjoy similar average temperatures, with May slightly warmer, featuring a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F) compared to October's range of 21°C (71°F) to 30°C (87°F). However, May tends to be much wetter, receiving 269 mm (10.6 in) of precipitation over 24 days, whereas October sees significantly less rainfall at 127 mm (5.0 in) across 20 days. Notably, humidity levels remain consistent at 73% in both months, providing a tropical feel year-round. For more specific details about October's climate, you can check out Kilifi weather in October.

May and November present similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing high averages around 26°C (79°F) to 27°C (80°F) and maximums peaking at 32°C (89°F). However, May is characterized by significantly higher precipitation, with 269 mm (10.6 in) falling over 24 days, compared to November's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 21 days. Additionally, November tends to be more humid, with humidity levels reaching 84%, while May has a slightly lower average humidity of 73%. For those looking to plan their activities in November, more detailed information can be found at Kilifi weather in November.

In May, the weather tends to be warmer and wetter compared to December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, accumulating 269 mm (10.6 in) over 24 days, accompanied by humidity levels around 73%. In contrast, December features slightly higher average temperatures, from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), but it is much drier, receiving only 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 19 days and a bit higher humidity at 77%. For more detailed information on December weather, visit Kilifi weather in December.

Compare Kilifi's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kilifi

As May settles in, Kilifi witnesses a distinct shift in its weather pattern, characterized by increased humidity and frequent rain showers. With an average temperature around a warm 26°C, the month brings a blend of moisture and warmth, resulting in about 24 rainy days and a total precipitation of 269 mm. This marks a transition from the drier months, making May a lush and vibrant time for the region. While the coastal breezes provide relief, the overall atmosphere feels more humid, creating a unique tropical experience. For more insights on Kilifi's climatic conditions throughout the year, visit Kilifi Climate.