Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Kisumu, Kenya presents a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall. The maximum temperature reaches 28°C (82°F), while the average hovers around 21°C (71°F), offering a pleasant atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Nights can be cooler, dipping to a minimum of 17°C (63°F). This month is notably wet, with a remarkable precipitation amount of 252 mm (9.9 in) spread over 28 days, leading to a high humidity level of 81%. As rainy spells intertwine with warm interludes, May provides a vibrant backdrop for Kisumu's lush landscapes and thriving ecosystems.
In May, Kisumu, Kenya experiences a gentle warmth with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (82°F). This month marks a slight dip in the average temperature, settling at 21°C (71°F), as the region transitions into the cooler part of the year. Notably, the maximum temperature of 28°C (82°F) is a shift from the hotter days of March and April, highlighting a trend toward milder conditions. The pleasant climate in May, characterized by moderate temperatures and a refreshing atmosphere, invites both locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities before the cooler months fully set in.
In Kisumu, Kenya, May stands out as a significant month for precipitation, with 252 mm (9.9 in) of rain falling over an impressive 28 days. This makes May the second wettest month of the year, following April's peak, which records 285 mm (11.2 in) over 26 days. Analyzing the trends, it's evident that the region experiences a transition into the rainy season during these months, with rainfall peaking around them. Interestingly, while January and February see markedly lower rainfall and precipitation days, the numbers surge by March, reflecting a gradual buildup that reaches its zenith in April. As the patterns unfold, May continues this trend with substantial rainfall, contributing to the overall lushness of the landscape and forming an integral part of Kisumu's vibrant ecosystem.
In Kisumu, May marks a notable increase in humidity, soaring to 81%, the highest level observed so far in the year. This spike follows a trend of fluctuating moisture levels from the preceding months, with April sitting at 73%. While January and February maintained a consistent 72%, March saw a slight drop to 69%, hinting at the gradual shift towards the more humid conditions of late spring. As the year progresses into June, humidity remains elevated at 75%, but tends to decline slightly through the subsequent months of July and August. Comparatively, the latter part of the year, especially November, brings yet another rise, peaking at 85%. This cycle illustrates the rhythmic nature of Kisumu's climate, where May serves as a pivotal transition towards the wetter months ahead.
In May, Kisumu, Kenya experiences a UV Index of 13, maintaining an extreme exposure category that prompts vigilance during outdoor activities. As we transition from the peak intensity of previous months—where UV levels reached up to 16 in March and stayed high throughout April—the slight decrease in May still signifies a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV exposure persists from January through June, underscoring the importance of sun protection year-round. For those planning outdoor adventures, it's crucial to stay informed and take precautions, as the sun's rays remain potent. For more details, check out the complete insights on the Kisumu UV Index.
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May brings a delightful 316 hours of sunshine to Kisumu, Kenya, continuing the upward trend established in the earlier months of the year. Following a robust 331 hours in March, the sun's warm embrace didn't wane much through April or May, showcasing the region's vibrant glow as it transitions into the mid-year. As the long, sunlit hours further stretch into June and July, Kisumu's residents can expect a delightful blend of brightness, peaking in August with 335 hours. This pattern not only highlights the region's consistently abundant sunshine but also sets the stage for the lush landscapes that flourish in its wake.
In Kisumu, Kenya, May offers a 31% chance of sunny weather, a modest increase compared to the rainy months of April and February. As the region experiences a transition towards the dry season, the likelihood of sunny days is notably higher than in April's 23%, while still falling short of the sunnier June, which boasts a 46% chance. Observing the broader trend, January leads the year with the highest sunshine probability at 42%, painting a picture of a climate that shifts from the vibrant sun of early months to the slightly overcast conditions typical in the middle parts of the year. Consequently, May stands as a promising time for those hoping to enjoy the outdoors, despite a backdrop of lingering clouds.
In Kisumu, Kenya, daylight duration remains remarkably consistent throughout the year, with 12 hours of daylight each month. This uniformity creates a steady rhythm of light and dark, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy a balanced lifestyle regardless of the season. Whether basking in the warm hues of a January sunrise or experiencing the tranquil evenings of December, the predictable cycle of day and night fosters an inviting atmosphere for various activities and a deep connection to the natural world. As the months roll on, the unwavering 12-hour daylight serves as a reminder of Kisumu's unique climate, where the vibrancy of life thrives under the equally balanced sun.
In Kisumu, Kenya, the breeze in May slips slightly from the playful whispers of earlier months, averaging 1.4 m/s (3 mph)—the mildest wind speed since January. As the year unfolds, we observe a gentle decline in wind speed reaching its lowest in May, compared to a slight peak of 2.0 m/s (4 mph) in March. This gradual easing aligns with the onset of the cooler season, where April and May often bring a tranquil atmosphere, inviting a serene respite before the winds regain their vigor in the following months. Interestingly, despite the dip in May, the overall wind pattern remains consistent, oscillating primarily between 1.4 m/s to 2.0 m/s, creating a steady backdrop that enhances Kisumu’s charming lakeside ambiance.
Weather in Kisumu varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Kisumu, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, it's notable that both months feature a minimum temperature of around 17°C (63°F). However, May typically has a slightly lower average temperature at 21°C (71°F) compared to January's 22°C (72°F). January reaches a higher maximum temperature of 31°C (88°F), while May peaks at 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in May, with 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, indicating a wetter climate, compared to January's 89 mm (3.5 in) over just 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 81%, contrasting with January's 72%. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can visit Kisumu weather in January.
May and February exhibit distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), accompanied by high humidity at 81% and significant precipitation of 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days. In contrast, February experiences slightly warmer average temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and a maximum reaching 32°C (89°F). However, February is notably drier, with 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain spread over just 15 days, and lower humidity at 72%. For more details, you can check Kisumu weather in February.
Comparing the weather in May and March reveals some notable differences. In March, temperatures can reach a maximum of 33°C (91°F), making it warmer overall, while May has a cooler maximum of 28°C (82°F). However, both months have similar minimum temperatures, starting at around 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is more frequent in May, occurring on 28 days with a total of 252 mm (9.9 in), compared to March, which sees 218 mm (8.6 in) over 22 days. Additionally, the humidity is higher in May at 81%, compared to March's 69% humidity. For a closer look at March conditions, check out the details here: Kisumu weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, we notice a few distinct differences. April tends to have slightly higher average temperatures, reaching a maximum of 32°C (89°F), while May's temperatures peak at 28°C (82°F). However, both months start with a similar minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F). In terms of precipitation, April receives more rainfall with 285 mm (11.2 inches) across 26 days, compared to May's 252 mm (9.9 inches) over 28 days, indicating that May may be slightly wetter but with shorter bursts of rain. Additionally, the humidity in May is notably higher at 81%, compared to 73% in April. For more details on April weather, you can check Kisumu weather in April.
May and June showcase relatively similar temperatures, with both months experiencing an average of 21°C (71°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F). However, May is marked by greater precipitation, totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, compared to June's 110 mm (4.3 in) across 21 days. Additionally, humidity levels drop slightly in June to 75%, compared to May's higher humidity of 81%. For more specifics on June conditions, you can check out Kisumu weather in June.
In comparing the weather in May and July, we notice some distinct differences. May tends to be warmer with average temperatures around 21°C (71°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F), while July has a slightly cooler climate, with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F) and maximums of 27°C (81°F). Additionally, May experiences much higher precipitation, totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, compared to July's more moderate 103 mm (4.1 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels also differ, with May at 81% and July dropping to 71%. For a more detailed look at June's weather, check the following link: Kisumu weather in July.
May and August in Kisumu showcase distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a low of 17°C (63°F) to a high of 28°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (71°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, accumulating 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, resulting in high humidity levels around 81%. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 27°C (82°F), while maintaining the same average temperature of 21°C (71°F). The precipitation drops considerably to 114 mm (4.5 in) over 20 days, contributing to a lower humidity of 69%. For more details on the weather in August, you can refer to Kisumu weather in August.
May and September in Kisumu show distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). However, this month is characterized by high humidity at 81% and significant rainfall, totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, making it one of the wettest periods. In contrast, September enjoys slightly warmer temperatures, with averages reaching 22°C (71°F) and maximums climbing to 29°C (85°F), while still maintaining a minimum of 17°C (62°F). The month experiences considerably less precipitation, measuring only 141 mm (5.5 in) across 22 days, and lower humidity at 73%. For more detailed insights, check out Kisumu weather in September.
May and October in Kisumu show interesting similarities and subtle differences in weather patterns. Both months experience a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F), but October enjoys a slightly higher average temperature of 22°C (71°F) compared to May's 21°C (71°F). While the maximum temperature in October reaches 29°C (84°F), May peaks at 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is abundant in both months, with May receiving 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days and October experiencing 234 mm (9.2 in) across 26 days. The humidity remains relatively consistent, with May at 81% and October slightly lower at 80%. For a detailed look at October weather in Kisumu, you can visit Kisumu weather in October.
May and November in Kisumu exhibit relatively similar temperatures, with both months featuring a minimum temperature around 17°C (63°F) and an average hovering between 21°C (71°F) and 22°C (71°F). However, November tends to be slightly warmer at its maximum, reaching 29°C (84°F) compared to May's 28°C (82°F). In terms of precipitation, May is wetter, recording 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, while November has a total of 230 mm (9.1 in) with 24 rainy days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with November being slightly more humid at 85% versus May's 81%. For more details on November weather specifics, visit Kisumu weather in November.
May and December in Kisumu present generally warm temperatures, but with notable differences in precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), accompanied by significant rainfall totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) over 28 days, contributing to a high humidity of 81%. In contrast, December features slightly higher average temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), but experiences much less rainfall at 171 mm (6.7 in) over 21 days, resulting in a humidity level of 80%. This comparison highlights the wet conditions typical of May versus the relatively drier weather of December. For more information, visit Kisumu weather in December.
In May, Kisumu experiences a shift in weather patterns, with the average temperature averaging 21°C and humidity levels rising significantly to 81%. This month is characterized by increased precipitation, totaling 252 mm over 28 days, making it one of the wettest periods of the year. As the rainy season takes hold, the lush landscapes flourish, contrasting with the typically drier months that precede it. For those keen to understand how the climate shapes their experience in Kisumu, further insights can be found at Kisumu Climate.