May Weather in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, in May offers a warm and humid climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 31°C (89°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F). Visitors can expect a minimum temperature of 25°C (78°F), providing a tropical backdrop for outdoor adventures. However, be prepared for the frequent rainfall, totaling 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days. With humidity levels soaring at 85%, the weather is ideal for enjoying lush landscapes and vibrant local culture, but it’s best to have an umbrella on hand for unexpected showers.

May Temperature in Kota Kinabalu

In May, Kota Kinabalu experiences a delightful warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 25°C (78°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F). As the month unfolds, the average temperature settles at a comfortable 28°C (83°F), marking a slight increase compared to preceding months. This consistent warmth, along with a gradual rise in humidity as the rainy season looms, makes May an inviting time for outdoor adventures and exploring the region’s stunning landscapes. With the combination of sunny skies and balmy evenings, visitors can fully enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty that this Malaysian gem has to offer.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kota Kinabalu, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kota Kinabalu, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec808081828382828282818181
Data source: Temperature data for Kota Kinabalu generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Kota Kinabalu

In May, Kota Kinabalu experiences a significant surge in rainfall, with 181 mm (7.1 in) of precipitation recorded over an average of 25 days. This uptick marks a shift into the wetter season, as the region prepares for the intensifying monsoon. Notably, May's rainfall represents a healthy increase compared to the preceding months, underscoring the city's lush, tropical climate. As the wet season progresses, the frequency and intensity of rain contribute to the picturesque landscapes that define this vibrant Malaysian locale, making it a crucial month for both weather patterns and the local ecosystem.

May Precipitation Trends in Kota Kinabalu

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kota Kinabalu, 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 Kinabalu, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec19510897109181229167221215309264272
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Kota Kinabalu

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the humidity in May hovers around a substantial 85%, making it a month of noticeable moisture as the region transitions deeper into the wet season. This level represents a slight increase from April's drier 82%, reflecting the trend of rising humidity as the year progresses. Following May, the humidity levels climb back to 87% in June, indicating a consistent pattern where the climate remains persistently humid throughout the year, with peaks occurring in the earlier months and again in September, which reaches a high of 90%. Overall, May serves as a pivotal month that signals the impending humidity typical of the region's tropical climate.

May Average Humidity in Kota Kinabalu

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kota Kinabalu, 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 Kinabalu is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%89%87%82%85%87%86%88%90%86%87%89%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kota Kinabalu

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, with May showcasing a notable UV Index of 14. This places it in the extreme exposure category, where just 10 minutes of unprotected skin can lead to burns. While slightly lower than the peak readings of 16 in March and April, May still demands vigilance against harmful rays. The trend of elevated UV levels underscores the importance of sun protection year-round. To learn more about local UV conditions, check out Kota Kinabalu UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kota Kinabalu for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kota Kinabalu 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 Kinabalu typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec131516161413131415141212
Data source: Kota Kinabalu 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 Kinabalu

In May, Kota Kinabalu enjoys a vibrant embrace of 289 hours of sunshine, continuing a trend of generous daylight seen from January through to April. After a spectacular peak of 302 hours in March, the sunny disposition remains strong in May, only slightly dipping as the city transitions into the wetter months ahead. The sunshine hours in May are reflective of a springtime energy, setting a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities while hinting at the upcoming seasonal shifts. As summer approaches, the sun-washed days begin to offer a comforting sense of balance, with average sunshine striking a rhythm that resonates with both locals and visitors alike.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kota Kinabalu: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kota Kinabalu 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec214h270h302h293h289h272h293h287h264h262h262h268h
Data source: Kota Kinabalu May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kota Kinabalu During May

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the likelihood of sunny weather experiences a slight dip in May, with only a 12% chance of sunshine. This follows a trend of generally low sunshine probabilities that characterize the early half of the year, where January to April hover between 10% and 20%. Interestingly, as the months progress into late spring and summer, the chances of sunny weather remain relatively stable, only rising slightly to 13% in June. Thus, May stands out as a transitional month, hinting at the shift towards more favorable weather conditions, yet still lagging behind the sunnier months that follow.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kota Kinabalu

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kota Kinabalu 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 Kinabalu experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10%20%20%19%12%13%14%14%8%9%11%6%
Data source: Kota Kinabalu May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kota Kinabalu in May

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the pattern of daylight duration throughout the year displays a consistent rhythm, with January and February basking in approximately 11 hours of sunlight each day. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to extend to 12 hours, a trend that continues through the wet months of April and May, promoting an abundant atmosphere of warmth and activity. This 12-hour daylight duration remains stable from June to September, creating a perfect backdrop for exploration and outdoor activities. However, as the dry season draws near, daylight shortens slightly in the fall months of October and November, returning to 11 hours in December. This cyclical variation not only signifies the passage of the seasons but also enhances the tropical character of Kota Kinabalu, making it a year-round destination for lovers of sun and nature.

Average Daylight Hours in Kota Kinabalu for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kota Kinabalu throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 48m11h 55m12h 4m12h 14m12h 22m12h 26m12h 24m12h 17m12h 7m11h 58m11h 50m11h 46m
Data source: Kota Kinabalu daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kota Kinabalu

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, the winds of May blow gently with an average speed of 1.9 m/s (4 mph), making it one of the calmer months of the year. As temperatures rise entering late spring, a noticeable trend emerges; the wind speeds often dip during these transitional months. Following the breezy precedents of January and February, which boast speeds of 2.7 m/s and 2.8 m/s respectively, the wind begins to mellow through March and April. By June, the winds remain steady at 1.9 m/s, indicating a continued lull. This gentle breeze combined with the tropical warmth creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for outdoor explorations or relaxing by the waterfront. As the year progresses into the stronger gusts of July, peaking once again at 2.7 m/s, it’s clear that May offers a tranquil reprieve, enhancing the allure of Kota Kinabalu’s enchanting landscapes.

Average May Wind Speed in Kota Kinabalu

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kota Kinabalu, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.72.82.12.01.9 m/s1.92.72.12.22.61.82.3
Data source: Kota Kinabalu May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kota Kinabalu Compares to Other Months

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

May and January in Kota Kinabalu exhibit similar temperature ranges, with January showing slightly cooler temperatures; the minimums and averages are close, but May tends to feel warmer due to lower humidity levels. In May, the average temperature reaches around 28°C (83°F) with an 85% humidity level, while January has a similar average of 27°C (81°F) but with higher humidity at 90%. Precipitation is also noteworthy, with May receiving 181 mm over 25 days compared to January's 195 mm over 18 days, indicating that January experiences heavier rainfall over fewer days. For more details, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in January.

In comparing the weather of May and February, both months are characterized by warm temperatures, but May tends to be slightly hotter. May has average temperatures ranging from 25°C (78°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), whereas February's temperatures are a touch cooler, with averages between 24°C (75°F) and 30°C (86°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days, compared to February's 108 mm (4.2 in) across 16 days. The humidity also remains high in both months, with February showing a slightly higher level at 89% compared to May's 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in February.

In comparing the weather patterns of March and May, it's evident that May tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures reaching up to 28°C (83°F), compared to March's average of 27°C (81°F). However, May experiences significantly higher precipitation at 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days, whereas March sees only 97 mm (3.8 in) across 20 days. Both months have high humidity levels, with March at 87% and May at 85%, making the atmosphere quite humid during this period. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can visit Kota Kinabalu weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, both months experience similar temperature ranges, with minimums of 25°C, average highs of around 28°C, and maximums reaching 31°C. However, May is significantly wetter, receiving 181 mm of precipitation over 25 days, compared to April's 109 mm over 21 days. Additionally, May sees a slight increase in humidity, averaging 85%, while April maintains a slightly lower average of 82%. For more detailed insights on April’s weather, you can visit Kota Kinabalu weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we see that both months have similar average temperatures, with May ranging from a minimum of 25°C (78°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while June has a slightly lower minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a higher maximum of 32°C (90°F). Precipitation increases in June, with 229 mm (9.0 in) over 20 rainy days compared to May's 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days, indicating a shift toward heavier rainfall but less frequent showers. Additionally, June experiences slightly higher humidity levels at 87%, compared to May's 85%. For more detailed information on June weather, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in June.

In May, the weather features an average temperature of 28°C (83°F), with maximum highs reaching 31°C (89°F) and a significant amount of rainfall at 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days. The humidity remains high at 85%, contributing to a tropical atmosphere. In contrast, July maintains a similar climate with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) and maximums slightly higher at 32°C (89°F). However, rainfall decreases to 167 mm (6.6 in) over 20 days, and humidity slightly rises to 86%. For more details on weather patterns in July, you can check Kota Kinabalu weather in July.

In comparing the weather between May and August, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimum temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F), average temperatures at 28°C (82°F), and maximum temperatures slightly higher in August at 32°C (90°F) compared to 31°C (89°F) in May. However, August sees increased precipitation, totaling 221 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days, while May experiences slightly less rainfall at 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally higher in August at 88% compared to 85% in May, making August feel a touch more muggy. For detailed insights into the weather specifics, visit Kota Kinabalu weather in August.

May and September in Kota Kinabalu showcase remarkably similar temperature patterns, with both months averaging around 28°C (82-83°F). However, September tends to be slightly warmer, with a maximum temperature reaching 32°C (90°F) compared to May's 31°C (89°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in September, totaling 215 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days, which surpasses May's 181 mm (7.1 in) spread over 25 days. Additionally, September holds a higher humidity level at 90% compared to May's 85%. For detailed weather insights, check out Kota Kinabalu weather in September.

In comparing the weather of May and October, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with minimal differences in the daily averages. May typically enjoys a slightly higher average temperature of 28°C (83°F) compared to October's 27°C (81°F). However, October sees a significant increase in rainfall, receiving 308 mm (12.1 in) over 27 days, compared to May's 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with October at 86% and May at 85%. For more details on October weather, you can visit Kota Kinabalu weather in October.

In comparison to November, May presents slightly warmer temperatures, with averages peaking at 28°C (83°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (89°F). November, on the other hand, has an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), making it just a touch cooler. While both months experience high humidity, November's humidity is marginally higher at 87%, compared to May's 85%. Additionally, November sees increased rainfall, with 264 mm (10.4 in) over 27 days, compared to May's 181 mm (7.1 in) over 25 days. For a detailed look at the weather conditions, check out Kota Kinabalu weather in November.

When comparing the weather in May and December, we notice some distinct differences as well as similarities. May typically experiences slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C and an average of 28°C, peaking at 31°C. In contrast, December sees a marginally lower temperature range, with a minimum of 24°C and an average of 27°C. Both months are quite humid, but December holds a slight edge with 89% humidity compared to May's 85%. Precipitation is notably higher in December, totaling 272 mm over 28 days, while May receives 181 mm over 25 days. If you're interested in the specifics of December weather, you can check out Kota Kinabalu weather in December.

Compare Kota Kinabalu's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kota Kinabalu

May in Kota Kinabalu is characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity, creating a tropical ambiance that differs from other months. The average temperature hovers around a comfortable 28°C, while rainfall is relatively frequent, with about 25 days experiencing precipitation. This makes May one of the wetter months, with 181 mm of rainfall, contributing to the lush greenery that Kota Kinabalu is known for. Although it may be a bit soggy, the vibrant energy of this coastal city remains irresistible. For more insights into the unique climate patterns throughout the year, explore Kota Kinabalu Climate.