Last updated: August 31, 2025
In Freetown, Sierra Leone, May unveils a warm and humid climate, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and settling around an average of 27°C (81°F). As the month progresses, residents and visitors alike can expect minimum temperatures of 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is a significant aspect of May, accumulating to 137 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 20 days, creating a lush, vibrant environment. Humidity levels hover around 80%, adding to the tropical feel of this dynamic coastal city.
In May, Freetown, Sierra Leone, maintains a consistent warmth, with temperatures showcasing minimal fluctuations throughout the month. With a minimum of 25°C (77°F), an average of 27°C (81°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), the conditions remain pleasantly stable, mirroring those of the preceding month, April. This steady warmth is characteristic of the region, as the temperatures trend towards a mild heat, setting the stage for the upcoming rainy season. The April to May transition reflects a pattern where the environmental warmth lingers, making it a delightful time for both locals and visitors to enjoy the coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Freetown before the rains arrive.
In May, Freetown transitions into the heart of its rainy season, experiencing a substantial increase in precipitation, which totals an impressive 137 mm (5.4 in) over the month. This significant rainfall occurs across 20 days, showcasing a marked shift from the preceding months where January through April saw markedly low totals, with April only reaching 35 mm (1.4 in). The surge in moisture not only hints at the impending deluge that will characterize the following months, particularly June and July, but also nurtures the vibrant ecosystem of Sierra Leone. As the city braces for even heavier rains ahead—June averages a staggering 431 mm (17.0 in)—May serves as a pivotal month in Freetown's climatic transition, enveloping it in lush greenery and setting the stage for the flourishing landscapes that follow.
In May, Freetown experiences a noticeable increase in humidity, reaching 80%—the peak of a steady rise that begins with the dry season months. This trend illustrates how the vibrant coastal city transitions from the warm and relatively dry air of earlier months to the more tropical conditions as the rainy season approaches. Following April's 78%, May's 80% marks a significant shift, foreshadowing the sultry June and July, where humidity levels soar to 84%. This gradual escalation not only heightens the temperature perception but also enhances the lushness of the region, enriching the natural beauty that characterizes the lush landscapes of Sierra Leone. As Freetown moves towards the peak of humidity in the subsequent months, the atmospheric changes become a hallmark of the region's unique climate.
In May in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the UV Index climbs to a staggering 13, categorizing the sun exposure as extreme and reducing burn time to just 10 minutes. This trend of increasing UV levels is consistent throughout the early months of the year, peaking in April and May before maintaining high levels into the summer. From February through October, the UV Index remains at an extreme level, reflecting a notable risk for sunburn and related health concerns. This pattern emphasizes the need for effective sun protection during this time. Regularly checking the UV forecast is crucial for the well-being of both residents and visitors. For more information, visit Freetown UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Freetown enjoys a delightful embrace of sunshine, with 302 hours illuminating the city, a slight dip from the vibrant 318 hours recorded in March but still robust compared to the following months. As the rainy season edges closer, the sun's presence becomes increasingly cherished, providing a warm respite before the clouds take over. The trend throughout the year showcases a gradual decline in sunlight from the energetic peak of 320 hours in December, through to the cooler, cloudier days of July and August. With each passing month, the community savors these golden rays, making every sunny day in May a perfect opportunity to celebrate nature's warmth and vitality before the seasonal shift.
In Freetown, Sierra Leone, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a notable dip in May, with only a 29% chance of sunshine. This decline marks a stark contrast to earlier months, especially January, where clear skies are much more likely with a 70% chance. As the region transitions from the dry season into the rainy season, April—often the last glimpse of considerable sunshine—holds a 52% chance, but this plummets as summer approaches. Following May, June and July see even harsher weather, with chances of sun dropping further to 20% and 13%, respectively. This trend indicates that if you're planning to bask in the sun, late January through April might be your best bet before the clouds gather.
In Freetown, Sierra Leone, the pattern of daylight duration showcases a remarkable consistency throughout the year. From January to March, daylight gradually increases from 11 hours to 12 hours, marking the transition into spring. By April, this steady rise stabilizes, maintaining 12 hours of daylight from April through August. This consistent duration provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration during the peak of the dry season. As the year draws to a close, daylight begins to taper off again, returning to 11 hours from October to December, highlighting a cyclical rhythm in Freetown's natural light, ideal for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
In May, Freetown experiences a slight decrease in wind speed compared to the preceding months, averaging 3.8 m/s (9 mph). This trend marks a pause after a steady build-up from the earlier months, where the winds gradually increased from 4.0 m/s (9 mph) in January to 4.3 m/s (10 mph) in March and April. As the city transitions into the rainy season, the winds begin to soften, foreshadowing the calmer breezes that characterize the upcoming months. Interestingly, the months that follow May reveal variability, with July and August seeing a resurgence as winds reach 4.7 m/s (10 mph) and 5.3 m/s (12 mph), respectively. This fluctuation hints at a dynamic atmosphere, blending the serene pre-monsoon winds with the more vigorous gusts of peak rainy season.
Weather in Freetown varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Freetown, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January in Freetown both exhibit warm temperatures, with minimums around 25°C (77°F) and averages of approximately 27°C (81°F). However, May stands out with significantly higher precipitation, receiving around 137 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days, leading to a much higher humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January is quite dry, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall over a single day and a more comfortable humidity of 65%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can visit Freetown weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, both months exhibit warm temperatures, but May tends to be slightly more humid and wetter. In February, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with a comfortable average of 27°C (80°F). The month experiences minimal rainfall, receiving only 6 mm (0.2 in) over just one day, and the humidity is relatively lower at 72%. In contrast, May sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 27°C (81°F), and peaking at 29°C (84°F). However, it is significantly wetter, with precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days, leading to a higher humidity level of 80%. For more information on the weather in February, you can check out Freetown weather in February.
In March, the weather is quite warm with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), while maintaining an average temperature of 27°C (80°F). However, precipitation is minimal, with just 14 mm (0.6 in) spread over only 4 days and a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, May experiences similar temperature ranges but is notably wetter, receiving 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain over 20 days, along with higher humidity levels at 80%. This stark difference in precipitation and humidity makes May considerably rainier and more humid than March. For a detailed overview of March weather, you can check Freetown weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, both months feature similar temperature ranges with minimums and maximums consistently around 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84°F), respectively, and an average temperature of 27°C (81°F). However, May sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days, compared to April's much lighter rainfall of 35 mm (1.4 in) over just 8 days. Additionally, the humidity in May hovers around 80%, slightly higher than April's 78%. This increase in rainfall and humidity in May suggests a shift towards a wetter climate as the region transitions further into the rainy season. For more details on April's weather, you can visit Freetown weather in April.
May and June showcase similar temperature ranges, with both months averaging around 27°C (81°F) and peaking at 29°C (84°F). However, June experiences a significant increase in rainfall, with precipitation soaring to 431 mm (17.0 in) compared to May's 137 mm (5.4 in). Additionally, June has more rainy days, totaling 29 compared to May's 20, and it also sees a slight rise in humidity, reaching 84% from May’s 80%. For a more detailed look at June's weather, check out Freetown weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we see that May tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F) compared to July's average of 26°C (78°F). However, July experiences significantly higher precipitation levels, receiving 863 mm (34.0 in) over the course of 31 days, whereas May sees only 137 mm (5.4 in) across 20 days. The humidity is also a bit higher in July at 84%, compared to May’s 80%. Overall, while May offers warmer temperatures, July is characterized by its abundance of rain and increased humidity. For further details on July weather, visit Freetown weather in July.
In Freetown, May and August present contrasting weather patterns. May enjoys slightly warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). However, it also experiences significant rainfall, with 137 mm (5.4 in) falling over approximately 20 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 80%.
In comparison, August sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Despite the milder temperatures, August is marked by a dramatic increase in precipitation, totaling 743 mm (29.3 in) across 29 days. The humidity also rises to 90%, creating a distinctly more humid atmosphere. To learn more about Freetown's weather in August, you can visit Freetown weather in August.
May and September exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. In May, the temperatures are slightly warmer, averaging around 27°C (81°F), with maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over about 20 days, contributing to a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, September is characterized by cooler temperatures, averaging 26°C (79°F) and maxing out at 28°C (82°F). However, it is much wetter, with precipitation levels skyrocketing to 579 mm (22.8 in) across 28 days, leading to a higher humidity of 89%. For a more detailed look at the conditions, check out Freetown weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, both months exhibit warm temperatures, though May tends to be slightly warmer with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), while October sees a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 26°C (80°F). Precipitation is notably higher in October, with 224 mm (8.8 in) of rain recorded over 28 days, compared to May's 137 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days. Additionally, October has a higher humidity level at 86%, making it feel more humid than May, which maintains an 80% humidity rate. For more detailed information, you can check Freetown weather in October.
May and November both feature similar temperature ranges, with average temperatures hovering around 27°C (81°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). However, May tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 20 days compared to November's 106 mm (4.2 in) across 21 days. The humidity levels are also quite comparable, with May at 80% and November slightly lower at 79%. For more detailed information, you can check out this link: Freetown weather in November.
In comparing the weather in May and December, both months share similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 25°C (77°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). However, May tends to be rainier, experiencing 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 20 days, while December enjoys significantly less rainfall at just 31 mm (1.2 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 80%, compared to December's lower humidity of 70%. For a detailed look at December's climate, you can visit Freetown weather in December.
In May, Freetown experiences a warm and humid environment, with temperatures that generally hover around a comfortable 27°C (81°F). This month marks a noticeable shift as the city faces increased rainfall, with precipitation occurring on about 20 days, leading to a total of 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain. Compared to drier months, May’s warmth is accompanied by high humidity levels of 80%, making it feel quite muggy. Therefore, those visiting during this time should be prepared for the wet and humid conditions that characterize this transitional phase in Freetown's climate. For a deeper understanding of the weather patterns in Freetown throughout the year, check out Freetown Climate.