Last updated: August 21, 2025
In May, Sandakan, Malaysia, experiences warm and humid conditions, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (83°F). Daytime highs can soar to a maximum of 37°C (98°F), while nighttime lows dip to a comfortable 23°C (73°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, totaling approximately 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days, resulting in a humidity level averaging 79%. Visitors can expect a tropical climate, ideal for exploring the rich biodiversity and natural wonders of this vibrant region, though it's wise to prepare for frequent rain showers.
In May, Sandakan, Malaysia experiences a delightful blend of warm temperatures, with minimums around 23°C (73°F) and averages reaching 28°C (83°F). The heat peaks at a sweltering 37°C (98°F), mirroring the soaring temperatures of April while maintaining a comfortable daily range. This month marks a distinct transition into the onset of wetter conditions, as the humidity increases alongside the rising heat. Overall, May retains the tropical charm of Sandakan, offering an inviting atmosphere for exploration amidst the vibrant flora and fauna. As summer approaches, visitors can enjoy the lush surroundings while staying mindful of the increasing warmth.
In May, Sandakan experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns, receiving 268 mm (10.6 inches) of rain over 28 days. This marks a slight increase from April's 182 mm (7.2 inches), contributing to a trend of rising rainfall as the year progresses. As summer approaches, the region transitions into its wettest period, with May laying the groundwork for even more substantial rainfall in the following months. The moisture-laden air not only leads to frequent showers but also enhances the lush, verdant landscapes characteristic of this tropical paradise.
In May, Sandakan experiences a slight dip in humidity, averaging around 79%, marking it as one of the more comfortable months in comparison to the steadily high levels seen earlier in the year. Following a consistent pattern, the humidity gradually decreased from 87% in January to 86% in March before peaking at 80% in April. This trend reveals a gradual easing of moisture in the air as the region transitions into mid-year, setting the stage for more moderate, yet still humid, conditions in the coming months. As June approaches, humidity rises again to 80%, suggesting that the tropical climate of Sandakan remains ever-present, with humidity never straying too far from the higher ranges typical of the region.
In May, Sandakan, Malaysia, continues to experience extreme UV index levels with a value of 14, indicating that unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. This month retains a similar intensity to the peaks seen earlier in the year, particularly in March and April, which recorded slightly higher indices of 16. While the UV index begins to taper off slightly as the year progresses, the risk remains high, matching the patterns observed from January through April. For anyone enjoying sunny days in Sandakan, staying vigilant with sun protection is crucial. To stay informed about the UV trends throughout the year, visit Sandakan UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Sandakan, Malaysia basks in an impressive 305 hours of sunshine, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. This peak aligns seamlessly with the brighter trend observed since January, where the hours of sunlight steadily increased, culminating in the fifth month. Following May, the sunshine hours begin to plateau with June and July still basking in extensive daylight, while the subsequent months show a gentle decline, hinting at the transition into the wetter seasons. The consistent abundance of sun in May not only amplifies the charm of this coastal town but also sets the stage for vibrant outdoor explorations and unforgettable experiences.
In May, Sandakan, Malaysia, experiences a modest 13% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight decrease from the preceding months of April and March. This dip reflects a broader trend in the region, where the likelihood of sun begins to fluctuate as the year progresses. While January boasts the lowest chance at just 9%, the percentage slowly rises until April, before entering the mid-year months of June and July. Overall, May may not be the sunniest month, but it's part of a seasonal ebb and flow that hints at the vibrant tropical climate Sandakan is known for.
In Sandakan, Malaysia, daylight duration exhibits a fascinating rhythm throughout the year, starting with consistent 11 hours in January and February. As spring approaches, March ushers in an additional hour, sparking a gradual increase that continues into April. By May, the daylight stabilizes at 12 hours, a pattern that holds steady through the summer months of June to September, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. As the year progresses into October, a notable shift occurs as daylight begins to recede back to 11 hours, carrying the warm glow of summer into the cooler months. This cyclical variation not only reflects the equatorial climate but also enhances the vibrant lifestyles of the residents, who embrace the abundant sunshine throughout the year.
May in Sandakan, Malaysia, marks a slight dip in wind activity, with average wind speeds trailing off to 1.3 m/s (3 mph). This trend of gradually decreasing winds is consistent with the season's transition, following a peak in February when gusts reached 2.3 m/s (5 mph). Interestingly, while January and February experience more invigorating breezes, by the time May arrives, the winds become subtler, blending seamlessly into the warm, tropical atmosphere. As the year progresses, wind speeds remain relatively calm, echoing the tranquil charm of Sandakan's coastal environment, making this a perfect time for relaxation and exploration.
Weather in Sandakan varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Sandakan, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather of May and January, we see that both months offer warm temperatures, with January experiencing slightly cooler conditions. May boasts higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 37°C (98°F), while January peaks at 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is significant in both months, but January has a bit more, with 318 mm (12.5 in) falling over 25 days compared to May's 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days. Additionally, January has a higher humidity level at 87%, compared to May's 79%. For more details, you can check out Sandakan weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, May generally experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), peaking at 37°C (98°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is notably higher in May, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days, compared to February's 194 mm (7.7 in) over 23 days. Furthermore, February has a higher humidity level at 87% compared to May's 79%. For more details on February weather, you can visit Sandakan weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it is clear that May tends to be warmer and wetter. The average temperature in May reaches 28°C (83°F), slightly higher than March's 27°C (81°F), with maximum temperatures climbing to 37°C (98°F) compared to March's peak of 35°C (96°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days, whereas March sees 203 mm (8.0 in) across 26 days. Interestingly, humidity levels in March (86%) are higher than in May (79%), contributing to a more sultry atmosphere during the earlier month. For more details on March weather, check out Sandakan weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we see a notable increase in precipitation during May, which records 268 mm over 28 days, compared to April's 182 mm over 23 days. Both months feature similar temperature averages, with a minimum of 22-23°C (71-73°F) and a maximum reaching 37°C (98-99°F), but May is characterized by a slightly higher humidity level at 79%, while April sits at 80%. This combination of higher rainfall in May suggests a more humid environment, even though the average temperatures remain consistent. For more detailed insights into April’s conditions, you can check Sandakan weather in April.
May and June exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months starting at a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and averaging around 28°C (82-83°F). However, June typically experiences slightly cooler maximum temperatures, peaking at 35°C (96°F) compared to May’s 37°C (98°F). Both months are marked by significant rainfall, with June receiving 290 mm (11.4 in) of precipitation, just slightly more than May’s 268 mm (10.6 in). The humidity remains consistently high, with June at 80% and May close behind at 79%. For a detailed look at June’s weather, check out Sandakan weather in June.
May and July present somewhat similar weather patterns, yet notable differences exist. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 37°C (98°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F). The month is characterized by substantial rainfall, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days, and humidity levels hover around 79%. Conversely, July sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum of 35°C (96°F), averaging 27°C (82°F). Rainfall is also slightly less at 246 mm (9.7 in) across 26 days, accompanied by a marginally higher humidity of 81%. For more details on June's weather in Sandakan, you can visit Sandakan weather in July.
In comparing the weather in May and August, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with May averaging 28°C (83°F) and August slightly cooler at 28°C (82°F). May, however, experiences slightly higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 37°C (98°F) compared to August's 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are closely matched, with May recording 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days and August bringing in 264 mm (10.4 in) over 27 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with May at 79% and August slightly higher at 82%. For more details, check Sandakan weather in August.
May and September exhibit similar warm climates, though there are some notable differences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 37°C (98°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F), while September shows slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 22°C (72°F), an average of 27°C (82°F), and a maximum of 36°C (97°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with May receiving 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days and September with 272 mm (10.7 in) over 27 days. Humidity is marginally higher in September at 84% compared to May's 79%. For more specifics about September weather, you can visit Sandakan weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, we find that both months maintain similar minimum temperatures, averaging around 23°C (73°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer overall, with an average temperature of 28°C (83°F) compared to October's average of 27°C (82°F). While May reaches maximum temperatures of 37°C (98°F), October’s peak is a bit lower at 35°C (95°F).
Precipitation levels are comparable, with May seeing 268 mm (10.6 in) and October slightly higher at 278 mm (10.9 in), both spread over 28 days. Humidity is also similar, with May at 79% and October at 81%. For more detailed information, consider checking Sandakan weather in October.
May and November showcase contrasting yet similar weather patterns. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a high of 37°C (98°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In comparison, November features slightly cooler temperatures, with a maximum of 35°C (96°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). Rainfall increases to 347 mm (13.6 in) spread across 29 days, resulting in a humidity level of 81%. Despite the mild decrease in temperature, November is characterized by higher precipitation, making it an equally wet month. For more details, you can check Sandakan weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, both months exhibit relatively warm temperatures, though December is slightly cooler on average. May boasts a maximum temperature of 37°C (98°F) compared to December's 35°C (96°F), and while both months have a similar minimum temperature of 23°C (73°F), May averages slightly higher at 28°C (83°F) versus December's average of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in December with 328 mm (12.9 in) of rainfall over 29 days, compared to May's 268 mm (10.6 in) over 28 days. Both months feature high humidity levels, with December reaching 84% compared to May's 79%. For more detailed information, you can check Sandakan weather in December.
May in Sandakan is characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, starkly contrasting with the cooler, dryer months that precede it. The average temperature remains comfortably warm, but the maximums can soar, making it one of the hottest months of the year. With around 28 rainy days, the humidity level reaches a peak, creating a humid atmosphere that’s both steamy and vibrant. This combination of heat and moisture gives May its distinctive tropical flair, setting the stage for the lush landscapes that define this region. For further insights into the weather patterns throughout the year, visit Sandakan Climate.