May Weather in Kota Bharu, Malaysia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, May brings sweltering temperatures, with highs reaching a scorching 38°C (101°F) and an average of 29°C (84°F), while the mercury dips to a comfortable 24°C (75°F) at night. This month is characterized by significant precipitation, averaging 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days, making it one of the wettest periods of the year. Coupled with a humidity level of 79%, May in Kota Bharu is marked by its tropical climate, offering a blend of warmth and frequent showers that define this vibrant region.

May Temperature in Kota Bharu

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, May marks a peak in warmth, with temperatures reaching a sizzling max of 38°C (101°F). The month typically begins with minimum temperatures around 24°C (75°F), gradually warming to a comfortable average of 29°C (84°F). This trend underscores the transition from the preceding months, where April also showcased higher temperatures, yet May distinguishes itself with the highest maximum of the year. As summer unfolds, it becomes clear that this coastal city embraces a tropical climate, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy its vibrant culture under the sunny skies.

May Weather in Kota Bharu: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kota Bharu, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kota Bharu, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec798081838483828282828079
Data source: Temperature data for Kota Bharu 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 Kota Bharu

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, May marks a significant shift in the precipitation pattern, accumulating 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days of rainfall. This month plays a pivotal role in the gradual increase of precipitation leading into the wetter months ahead. Following April's moderate 171 mm, May showcases a notable uptick, hinting at the onset of the region's monsoon season. As the year progresses, rainfall intensifies, with June peaking with 234 mm, suggesting that May serves as a harbinger for the downpours to come. This trend not only highlights the transitional nature of May but also sets the stage for the heavy rains that characterize subsequent months, demonstrating how Kota Bharu’s climate oscillates between the dry and wet seasons, even within a single year.

May Precipitation Trends in Kota Bharu

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kota Bharu, 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 Kota Bharu, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2257977171197234184246270274440340
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Kota Bharu

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, the month of May sees a notable humidity level of 79%, marking a slight increase from the drier conditions of earlier months. As the region transitions from the cooler, less humid April, May's weather sets the stage for the coming wetter months. Humidity begins to rise significantly in June, peaking at 85% and continuing its ascent through the middle of the year, ultimately reaching a high of 89% in September. This trend highlights the pattern of increasing humidity typical of Kota Bharu as it moves into the rainy season, making May a pivotal month in the climatic cycle.

May Average Humidity in Kota Bharu

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kota Bharu, 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 Kota Bharu is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%76%74%73%79%85%84%87%89%87%88%90%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kota Bharu

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, the UV Index consistently ranks as extreme throughout the year, with May reflecting a UV Index of 14. This indicates that despite a slight decrease from the higher values seen in earlier months, the potential for skin damage remains substantial, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The trend showcases a minor ebb from March's peak of 16, yet the overall pattern highlights the importance of sun safety. As warmer months approach, residents and visitors should remain vigilant against UV exposure. For more information on the UV Index in Kota Bharu, visit Kota Bharu UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kota Bharu for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kota Bharu 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 Kota Bharu typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec131516151413121314141212
Data source: Kota Bharu 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 Kota Bharu

As we welcome May in Kota Bharu, Malaysia, the sunlight continues to grace the region with an impressive 314 hours of bright, inviting rays. May is a delightful interlude, perfectly nestled between the peak sunshine months of March and July, which boast even more hours—336 and 322, respectively. Following the vibrant energy of April’s 311 hours, May maintains a consistent glow, reflecting the trend of ample sunshine that characterizes the region’s early months. As the year progresses, this pattern showcases Kota Bharu’s reliable warmth, making it a splendid destination for sun-seekers before the slightly reduced hours in the latter half of the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kota Bharu: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kota Bharu 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec229h303h336h311h314h305h322h314h300h297h254h274h
Data source: Kota Bharu May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kota Bharu During May

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, May brings a moderate 21% chance of sunny weather, reflecting a gradual decline from the sunnier months earlier in the year. Following February's peak of 37%, the likelihood of sunshine diminishes through April and reaches its nadir as the region transitions into the wetter months. While June sees a slight bounce back to 26%, the overall trend highlights May as a time when you might want to keep an umbrella handy, as the increasing cloud cover hints at the approaching monsoon season. So, if you're planning outdoor activities in May, it's wise to stay prepared for a mix of sun and rain.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kota Bharu

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kota Bharu 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 Kota Bharu experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8%37%32%28%21%26%16%14%12%13%7%15%
Data source: Kota Bharu May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kota Bharu in May

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, the duration of daylight exhibits a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. From January to February, residents enjoy a consistent 11 hours of sunlight, creating a gentle and steady start to the year. As spring approaches in March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a trend that continues into the summer months. This 12-hour threshold persists from April through September, offering ample time for outdoor activities and vibrant community life. However, as the year wanes, October to December see a return to 11 hours of daylight, wrapping up the year with a comforting familiarity. Overall, Kota Bharu's daylight patterns blend continuity and change, enriching the tropical charm of this vibrant city.

Average Daylight Hours in Kota Bharu for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kota Bharu throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 47m11h 54m12h 4m12h 14m12h 23m12h 27m12h 25m12h 17m12h 7m11h 58m11h 49m11h 45m
Data source: Kota Bharu daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kota Bharu

In Kota Bharu, Malaysia, the wind in May provides a subtle breath of fresh air, with an average wind speed of just 1.5 m/s (3 mph). This month, along with April, marks one of the calmest periods of the year, reflecting a notable drop from the breezier days of January and February, where winds reached 2.5 m/s (6 mph) and 5 mph respectively. Following a trend of decreasing wind speeds from April onward, May mirrors the stillness felt across those early months of the year. As the humidity rises in conjunction with the approaching monsoon, the gentle winds might invite moments of tranquility, perfect for enjoying Kota Bharu’s vibrant culture and lush scenery.

Average May Wind Speed in Kota Bharu

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kota Bharu, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.52.52.31.51.5 m/s1.41.31.31.31.51.52.3
Data source: Kota Bharu May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kota Bharu Compares to Other Months

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

When comparing the weather in May and January, May tends to be warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), and an average of 29°C (84°F). In contrast, January has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is relatively high in both months, but January sees 225 mm (8.9 in) over 21 days, slightly more than May's 197 mm (7.7 in) spread across 27 days. Humidity levels are also quite similar, with May at 79% and January at 83%. For more details, you can check Kota Bharu weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, May tends to be significantly hotter and wetter. The average temperature in May is 29°C (84°F), with maximums soaring up to 38°C (101°F), while February has a more moderate average of 26°C (80°F) and tops out at 33°C (92°F). Additionally, May experiences higher precipitation, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) across 27 days, compared to February's 79 mm (3.1 in) over just 16 days. Humidity is similarly high in both months, with May at 79% and February slightly lower at 76%. For more detailed information, you can check Kota Bharu weather in February.

In comparison to March, May is noticeably hotter and more humid. The average temperature in May reaches 29°C (84°F), with a maximum of 38°C (101°F), while March has a lower average of 27°C (82°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more rainfall, with a total of 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days, compared to March's 77 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days. This increase in precipitation contributes to May's higher humidity level of 79%, compared to March's 74%. For more specific details on the weather in March, you can check Kota Bharu weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, May experiences slightly warmer temperatures with an average of 29°C (84°F) compared to April's 28°C (83°F). While both months have similar minimum temperatures of 24°C (75°F), May reaches a higher maximum of 38°C (101°F) versus April's 36°C (97°F). Additionally, May sees more rainfall, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days, compared to April's 171 mm (6.7 in) over 21 days. The increased humidity in May, averaging 79%, also adds to the overall stickiness of the month compared to April's 73%. For further details on April's weather, you can check Kota Bharu weather in April.

May and June present notably similar weather patterns, yet each month has its distinct characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average temperature of 29°C (84°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days and a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, June sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and a maximum of 35°C (96°F), averaging 28°C (83°F). Rainfall increases to 234 mm (9.2 in) over 26 days, accompanied by a higher humidity of 85%. For more details on the weather in June, you can check Kota Bharu weather in June.

When comparing the weather in May and July, both months feature warm temperatures, with May slightly warmer on average. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), while July sees temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 35°C (96°F). Despite the warmer average temperatures in May, July experiences a slightly higher humidity level at 84%, compared to May's 79%. Precipitation is also fairly consistent, with May receiving 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days and July slightly less at 184 mm (7.3 in) over 26 days. For more detailed information, you can check Kota Bharu weather in July.

In May, temperatures in the region typically range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 29°C (84°F). This month sees notable precipitation of 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, August features slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 28°C (82°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), while the minimum remains the same at 24°C (75°F). However, August experiences increased precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 28 days, and higher humidity at 87%. For more detailed information, check out Kota Bharu weather in August.

May and September present distinct weather patterns, with May generally being hotter and drier. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average temperature of 29°C (84°F) and significant humidity at 79%. In contrast, September offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F), an average of 28°C (82°F), and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). However, it is wetter, receiving 270 mm (10.6 in) of precipitation over 27 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 89%. For more insights on September weather, you can check this link: Kota Bharu weather in September.

In May, temperatures in Kota Bharu range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging around 29°C (84°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, October sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). Rainfall increases to 274 mm (10.8 in) over 28 days, along with higher humidity at 86%. For more details, you can check Kota Bharu weather in October.

May and November exhibit notable differences in weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 29°C (84°F). The month experiences substantial rainfall, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) over 27 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 79%. In contrast, November sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and a maximum of 33°C (93°F), averaging 27°C (81°F). However, it brings even more precipitation, with an impressive 440 mm (17.3 in) over 28 days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 88%. For more details, visit Kota Bharu weather in November.

When comparing the weather in May and December, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May tends to be hotter, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), while December's temperatures are milder, averaging between 22°C (71°F) and 32°C (91°F). Although both months experience rainfall on 27 days, December has much higher precipitation, totaling 340 mm (13.4 in) compared to May's 197 mm (7.7 in). Humidity also peaks in December at 90%, slightly higher than May's 79%. This makes December feel more humid and wetter, resulting in a distinctly different climate experience. For more information, check out Kota Bharu weather in December.

Compare Kota Bharu's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kota Bharu

As May unfolds in Kota Bharu, the weather showcases a unique blend of heat and humidity, with temperatures reaching their peak and frequent rainfall characterizing the month. Compared to other months, May stands out for its higher average temperatures and significant precipitation, with nearly every day experiencing some level of moisture. The persistent humidity of 79% adds to the tropical feel, making it a time when the lush landscape truly flourishes. For those seeking to understand the seasonal shifts in this vibrant region, more insights can be found in the detailed overview at Kota Bharu Climate.