Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Bamako, Mali ushers in a warm embrace, with maximum temperatures soaring up to 43°C (110°F) and an average of 32°C (91°F), creating a climate that is both intense and invigorating. As the days unfold, nighttime offers a welcome respite with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 23°C (73°F). While the month brings only 21 mm (0.8 in) of rainfall over 5 days, the humidity remains relatively comfortable at 42%, balancing the heat with a touch of moisture in the air. This blend of warmth and occasional rainfall sets the stage for vibrant life and activity in the heart of Mali.
In May, Bamako, Mali, experiences a significant rise in temperatures, with minimums averaging around 23°C (73°F) and maximums climbing to a sweltering 43°C (110°F). This month marks the transition into the hotter season, where the average temperature settles at 32°C (91°F), making it one of the warmest times of the year. Compared to the preceding months, where evenings were cooler and daytime highs more moderate, May's heat emphasizes the intense summer climate that defines this region. As the city approaches the rainy season, the rising temperatures serve as a precursor to the humidity and precipitation that will soon follow, shaping the local atmosphere and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
In May, Bamako experiences a noticeable rise in precipitation, marking the transition into the wet season with 21 mm (0.8 in) of rain over 5 days. This is a significant increase from the previous months, where January and February recorded no rainfall at all. Following the dry spell in early months, May's precipitation lays the groundwork for the heavier rains that follow in June and July, which witness a dramatic uptick to 66 mm (2.6 in) and 240 mm (9.4 in), respectively. The gradual build-up of rainfall in May not only signals the onset of the rainy season but also hints at a more moisture-rich landscape ahead, transforming Bamako's environment as it prepares for the intense weeks of summer rains.
As the dry season gives way to the onset of the rainy season, May in Bamako, Mali heralds a significant jump in humidity, climbing to 42% from April's 22%. This marked rise indicates the beginnings of increased moisture in the air, a stark contrast to the bone-dry conditions that characterized the earlier months. With humidity levels continuing to soar into the summer months, reaching peaks of 75% in June and 85% from August to September, it becomes clear that May serves as a pivotal transition point. Residents and visitors alike can expect not only higher temperatures but also a notable increase in air moisture, marking a shift towards the lush and vibrant climate characteristic of Bamako's rainy season.
In the heart of Bamako, Mali, the UV Index reaches notable heights throughout the month of May, registering an extreme reading of 13. This consistency aligns with the rising trend observed from January through April, where the index climbs steadily from 10 to 13. As May progresses, citizens and visitors alike should remain vigilant, as the burn time remains a mere 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This pattern of high UV levels doesn't wane quickly; it continues into June and July, creating an extended period of intense sunlight exposure. With precautions necessary for skin safety during this time, it's crucial to stay informed. For detailed daily updates, visit Bamako UV Index.
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In May, Bamako basks in a delightful 339 hours of sunshine, marking the peak of the dry season. Following the steady climb from 262 hours in January to 295 hours in February, the city experiences a consistent increase in sunlight, with hours reaching 327 in both March and April. This pattern reflects the transition into the hotter months, where the sun becomes a constant companion. As summer approaches, June slightly dips to 329 hours, yet the overall trend of abundant sunlight remains, ideal for outdoor activities and cultural festivities. Comparatively, this sun-soaked month stands out, showcasing Bamako's vibrant climate and fostering an energetic atmosphere.
In Bamako, Mali, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather takes a notable dip as May approaches, with only a 42% chance of sunshine. This decrease contrasts sharply with the peak sunshine months of January and February, where the probability hovers around 81% and 71% respectively. Following April, which maintains a 62% chance of sun, May marks the beginning of a gradual shift towards the wetter months ahead, where the chances of sunshine further decline into the rainy season. This trend illustrates how Bamako transitions from its dry season into a more unpredictable weather pattern, setting the stage for the lush greenery that follows the rains. As the month progresses, those hoping for sun may want to prepare for occasional cloud cover, as nature begins to unveil its vibrant hues.
In Bamako, Mali, the daylight duration exhibits a distinct pattern throughout the year. January and February experience 11 hours of daylight, providing a consistent start to the year. As spring arrives in March, daylight increases to 12 hours, a trend that remains steady through the summer months, from April to September. This generous exposure to sunlight supports the vibrant life typical of the region during these warm months. As autumn approaches in October, the daylight slightly dips back to 11 hours, continuing into November and December, heralding the return to shorter days. This rhythmic fluctuation not only shapes the daily activities of Bamako’s residents but also enhances the region's dynamic climate throughout the year.
In Bamako, Mali, the wind speeds during May dip to an average of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), maintaining the steady, gentle breeze characteristic of the early summer months. This slight decrease from the earlier months of the year reflect a broader trend in the region, where wind speeds gradually decline from January’s brisk 3.1 m/s. With May marking the transition towards the hotter, humid days of the season, these calmer winds provide a refreshing contrast, setting a tranquil atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities. As the year progresses, a pattern emerges: after May, the wind speeds remain consistent, hovering around similar low levels into the summer, before gradually picking up again in November and December.
Weather in Bamako varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Bamako, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January display stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures soar, with minimums around 23°C (73°F) and scorching maximums reaching up to 43°C (110°F), accompanied by occasional rainfall totaling 21 mm (0.8 in) over five days and a humidity level of 42%. In contrast, January features much cooler temperatures, with minimums of 12°C (53°F) and a pleasant average of 24°C (76°F), while remaining completely dry, as it sees no precipitation throughout the month and only 12% humidity. This significant difference showcases May's sweltering heat compared to the mild, dry conditions of January. For more details, check out Bamako weather in January.
May and February exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In February, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 39°C (103°F), with a comfortable average of 27°C (82°F) and virtually no precipitation recorded. The humidity is notably low at 11%, creating a dry atmosphere. In contrast, May brings significantly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and soaring averages of 32°C (91°F), peaking at 43°C (110°F). Additionally, May experiences some rainfall, averaging 21 mm (0.8 in) over five days and maintaining a humidity level of 42%. For more detailed insights into February weather, you can visit Bamako weather in February.
In March, temperatures range from a cooler minimum of 13°C (56°F) to an average of 31°C (88°F), with a maximum reaching 42°C (107°F). The month experiences very little precipitation, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, resulting in a low humidity of 13%. In contrast, May sees much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 32°C (91°F), peaking at 43°C (110°F). Although May is hotter, it also includes 21 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over five days, leading to a higher humidity of 42%. For more details on March weather, you can visit Bamako weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, both months exhibit high temperatures typical of the region, but May shows slightly higher extremes. The minimum temperature in May is 23°C (73°F), compared to April's 21°C (69°F), while both months have a similar average temperature of around 32°C (91°F). However, May peaks at a maximum of 43°C (110°F), which is just above April's maximum of 42°C (108°F). In terms of precipitation, May receives more rainfall at 21 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, contrasted with April's 9 mm (0.4 in) over just 1 day, indicating a wetter month as spring progresses. Additionally, humidity levels rise in May to 42%, up from April's lower 22%. For more detailed insights, you can view Bamako weather in April.
May and June present distinct shifts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 23°C (73°F), an average of 32°C (91°F), and peak at a scorching 43°C (110°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation at 21 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days and lower humidity levels at 42%. In contrast, June sees a slight decrease in maximum temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (71°F), an average of 30°C (86°F), and a maximum of 41°C (105°F). However, it brings significant rainfall, totaling 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, and a remarkable rise in humidity to 75%. This shift marks June as a wetter and more humid month compared to its predecessor. For more details, you can check Bamako weather in June.
In comparing the weather of May and July, May tends to be hotter and drier, with average temperatures reaching 32°C (91°F) and only 21 mm of precipitation over about 5 days. The humidity level in May is relatively low at 42%, making it feel quite warm but still manageable. In contrast, July experiences a significant drop in average temperature to around 27°C (81°F), but this is paired with much higher humidity at 78% and extensive rainfall, totaling 240 mm over 25 days. This shift makes July a much wetter and more humid month compared to the dry heat of May. For a more detailed look at weather specifics, you can visit Bamako weather in July.
In May, the weather is characterized by higher temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a scorching maximum of 43°C (110°F), with an average of 32°C (91°F). The month sees relatively low humidity levels at 42% and limited rainfall, totaling just 21 mm (0.8 in) over about five days. In contrast, August presents a starkly different climate with cooler average temperatures of 26°C (79°F), with minimums around 20°C (69°F) and maximums hitting 34°C (94°F). However, this month is marked by significantly higher humidity at 85% and a dramatic increase in rainfall, totaling 299 mm (11.8 in) over 25 days. This shift from the dry heat of May to the humid, wet conditions of August can be quite striking. For more detailed information, you can check Bamako weather in August.
May and September present notably different weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and an average high of 32°C (91°F), reaching up to a scorching 43°C (110°F). Despite the heat, the month sees relatively low precipitation at just 21 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, with humidity sitting at 42%. In contrast, September experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 26°C (80°F), peaking at a maximum of 34°C (94°F). However, this month is characterized by significant rainfall, totaling 162 mm (6.4 in) spread over 19 days and a much higher humidity level at 85%. For more detailed insights on September weather, visit Bamako weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from the hot season to the onset of cooler, wetter conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a scorching maximum of 43°C (110°F), with an average of 32°C (91°F). The month experiences minimal precipitation, totaling just 21 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, and a relatively low humidity level of 42%. In contrast, October sees milder temperatures with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 37°C (100°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). This month is marked by increased humidity at 75% and significantly higher rainfall, with 54 mm (2.1 in) spread across 11 days. For further details on October weather conditions, you can check Bamako weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures soar with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and an average high of 32°C (91°F), peaking at a scorching 43°C (110°F). Despite the heat, May experiences some rainfall, accumulating 21 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, coupled with a humidity level of 42%. In stark contrast, November boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and an average high of 28°C (82°F), reaching a maximum of 38°C (100°F). Notably, November is dry, with no recorded precipitation and a humidity level of just 33%. For a detailed view of the weather in November, check Bamako weather in November.
In May, the weather is characterized by significantly higher temperatures, with minimums around 23°C (73°F) and maximums soaring up to 43°C (110°F), making it one of the hottest months of the year. The humidity level averages 42%, and there's a slight chance of rain with about 21 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days. In stark contrast, December features much cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), and it experiences dry conditions with no recorded precipitation. The humidity is considerably lower in December, averaging just 15%. For more detailed information, check out Bamako weather in December.
As May unfolds in Bamako, the weather presents a distinctive shift compared to the cooler, drier months preceding it. With temperatures peaking at 43°C (110°F) and an average of 32°C (91°F), this month marks a significant increase in heat, as the city transitions towards its hotter season. Although rainfall is minimal with only about 21 mm across 5 days, the humidity level settles at 42%, creating a warm, tropical atmosphere. This combination of heat and moisture makes May a notably sultry month—perfect for experiencing the vibrant pulse of Bamako. For a deeper insight into the climatic trends, explore Bamako Climate.