Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Mthatha, South Africa, presents a delightful transition into the cooler season. With a maximum temperature soaring to 29°C (85°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), the days offer warmth while nights can dip to a brisk 2°C (36°F). This month also greets its residents with 34 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, contributing to the lush green landscapes. Humidity levels are notably high at 88%, ensuring that the air feels rich and vibrant. Overall, May epitomizes a blend of warmth and refreshment in this charming locale.
In May, Mthatha, South Africa transitions into cooler temperatures, marking a noticeable shift from the warmer months. The minimum temperature drops to a brisk 2°C (36°F), while the average hovers around a comfortable 15°C (59°F). Despite the chill in the mornings and evenings, daytime highs can still reach a pleasant 29°C (85°F), allowing for increasingly mild afternoons. This change heralds the approach of winter, with temperatures overall declining steadily as the year progresses. The trend from the previous months shows a clear cooling pattern, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the vibrant autumn landscape before winter settles in.
In May, Mthatha experiences a notable dry spell, with precipitation plummeting to just 34 mm (1.3 in) over a mere 5 days of rainfall. This significantly contrasts with the wetter months preceding it, such as January and February, where average rainfall exceeds 120 mm and often spans up to 19 days. The decline in May marks a transitional phase as the region shifts from the lush, soaking rains of early autumn to the much drier winter months that follow. With June bringing even less rain at 20 mm (0.8 in), May serves as a pivotal turning point in Mthatha's climate, offering a brief respite before the arid conditions set in.
In Mthatha, South Africa, May experiences a humidity level of 88%, consistent with the high humidity that characterizes the earlier months of the year. The trend shows that January through April sees humidity hovering around a comfortable 88% to 89%, creating a lush and vibrant environment. As the region transitions into June, a noticeable drop to 82% occurs, signaling the onset of drier winter months. This gradual decline continues into the colder months, suggesting that while May remains relatively humid, the following months will bring a refreshing change, inviting a more temperate feel to the area.
In May, Mthatha experiences a UV Index of 6, indicating a high exposure category with a recommended burn time of 25 minutes. This marks a noticeable shift from the extreme UV levels in the summer months of January through March, where the index soared to a staggering 15. As autumn sets in, the UV Index declines, reflecting a more moderate sun intensity compared to the earlier months. However, it's essential to remain vigilant, as even with lower levels, skin protection is still necessary. Looking ahead, June continues this trend with a further drop to a moderate UV Index of 4, suggesting that while the risk is lower, caution should still be exercised. For more insights on how UV levels change throughout the year, visit Mthatha UV Index.
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May in Mthatha, South Africa, shines brightly with an impressive 302 hours of sunlight, contributing to the region's vibrant ambiance. This month continues the trend of abundant sunshine seen throughout the year, particularly in the transition from April's 295 hours to May’s robust count. As spring deeply settles, the sunshine hours gently rise, consistently surpassing the 300-hour mark. Following May, the sunlight remains generous in the continuing winter months, with July and August reflecting similar patterns. Notably, October dazzles with the peak sunshine hours at 346, suggesting that Mthatha's long daylight hours create a dynamic seasonal cycle that enhances its natural beauty and fosters a cheerful atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
In Mthatha, South Africa, May emerges as a standout month for sunny weather, boasting a remarkable 71% chance of sunshine. This significant increase in bright days follows a gradual upward trend from April's 43%, clearly indicating a shift towards sunnier conditions as autumn sets in. As the region transitions into winter, the likelihood of sun remains high, with June and July also showing impressive percentages of 70% and 85%, respectively. This pattern highlights May as a delightful time to enjoy outdoor activities, as residents and visitors alike can expect ample opportunities to bask in the sun's warm glow before the cooler months arrive.
As the month of May rolls in, Mthatha experiences a shift in daylight duration, with the hours of sunlight decreasing to 10 hours each day. This marks a continuation of the downward trend that began in April, where daylight was at 11 hours. The transition towards winter is evident, as Mthatha gradually moves from the longer days of summer in January and February, which boast 13 hours of daylight, to the more muted light of mid-year. Following May, the daylight hours stabilize at 10 hours through June, July, and August, before slowly increasing again in the spring months. This rhythm of daylight patterns not only influences the flora and fauna but also affects the local lifestyle, with the changing light marking the seasons distinctly in this vibrant region of South Africa.
In May, Mthatha experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), maintaining a consistent trend seen in the preceding months. The wind speeds have subtly fluctuated from 2.4 m/s in January and February, gradually tapering to 2.2 m/s in April before stabilizing in May. As the winter months approach, the winds pick up slightly, with June reporting 2.4 m/s and July seeing an increase to 2.7 m/s. This gradual rise hints at a dynamic climatic transition, where the tranquil breezes of early autumn give way to more invigorating gusts, setting the stage for the season ahead in this vibrant South African town.
Weather in Mthatha varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Mthatha, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a low of 2°C (36°F) to a high of 29°C (85°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, with only 34 mm (1.3 in) over about 5 days, while humidity remains high at 88%. In contrast, January is significantly warmer, boasting minimum temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and highs reaching 36°C (96°F), averaging 20°C (68°F). However, it also brings much more rainfall, with 123 mm (4.8 in) over 17 days, yet maintains the same humidity level of 88%. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can visit Mthatha weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge. May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), resulting in a more moderate average of 15°C (59°F). In contrast, February boasts warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Additionally, February sees significantly higher precipitation, with 172 mm (6.8 in) of rainfall over 19 days, compared to May's 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days. Both months share similar humidity levels at 88%. For more detailed insights into February weather, you can explore Mthatha weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, notable differences emerge. May tends to have cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), while March starts off warmer with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, March is much wetter, recording 127 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days, compared to May's 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with just a slight difference: 88% in May and 89% in March. For a more detailed look, check out Mthatha weather in March.
In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. April tends to have a wider temperature range, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). Conversely, May sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Additionally, April experiences significantly higher precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 12 days, compared to May's 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days. Both months maintain a high humidity level, with April at 89% and May slightly lower at 88%. For a more in-depth look, you can check Mthatha weather in April.
May typically exhibits milder weather compared to June, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), while June sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 27°C (82°F). Precipitation is more frequent in May, with 34 mm (1.3 in) falling over five days, while June experiences less rainfall at 20 mm (0.8 in) over just two days. Additionally, humidity levels in May are higher at 88%, compared to June's 82%, making May feel slightly more humid overall. For more details, you can check Mthatha weather in June.
In May, the weather is characterized by a range of temperatures with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), reaching a maximum of 29°C (85°F). This month experiences moderate precipitation of 34 mm (1.3 in) over about 5 days, with a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, July presents cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to an average of 12°C (55°F), while still reaching up to 29°C (85°F). July is significantly drier, with only 7 mm (0.3 in) of precipitation over just 1 day, and humidity levels dropping to 77%. For more detailed information, you can visit Mthatha weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, one can see distinct differences in temperature and humidity levels. May exhibits a wider temperature range, with minimums reaching 2°C (36°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (85°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). In contrast, August presents slightly cooler conditions, with a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) and an average of only 13°C (55°F), though it can still reach up to 31°C (88°F).
Precipitation levels also differ, with May receiving 34 mm (1.3 in) over 5 days, while August sees a bit more rain at 38 mm (1.5 in) spread over 7 days. Additionally, May experiences higher humidity at 88%, compared to August's more moderate levels of 72%. For more detailed information, you can explore Mthatha weather in August.
May and September exhibit some similarities in temperature, with both months having a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average around 15°C (59°F). However, September tends to bring warmer maximum temperatures, peaking at 37°C (98°F), compared to May's 29°C (85°F). Both months experience precipitation, but September sees slightly more rain at 39 mm (1.5 in) over 6 days compared to May's 34 mm (1.3 in) over 5 days. Humidity levels are also noteworthy; while May has higher humidity at 88%, September is a bit drier at 82%. For more detailed weather insights, you can explore Mthatha weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F), with highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, averaging 34 mm (1.3 inches) over just 5 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, October sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), spiking to maximums of 37°C (99°F). However, it is significantly wetter, with 98 mm (3.9 inches) of precipitation spread over 12 days, and a slightly lower humidity level at 83%. For more detailed insights into October weather, you can check Mthatha weather in October.
May and November showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a low of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a warm 29°C (85°F). With only 34 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 5 days and high humidity at 88%, the month has a milder, drier feel. In contrast, November experiences a higher minimum temperature of 6°C (44°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), soaring to a maximum of 36°C (97°F). However, it sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) across 17 days, while maintaining a slightly lower humidity of 87%. For more insights on November weather, check Mthatha weather in November.
May and December exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, December boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (94°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). However, it also brings significantly higher rainfall, with 153 mm (6.0 in) spread over 20 days, while still maintaining the same humidity level of 88%. For more details about December's weather, you can visit Mthatha weather in December.
As May unfolds in Mthatha, the weather transitions into a cooler and more humid environment compared to the preceding months. With comfortable average temperatures paired with a modest increase in precipitation, this month welcomes a refreshing change, drawing a backdrop that contrasts sharply with the hotter days of summer. The frequent but light rains serve to rejuvenate the lush landscapes, making it an ideal time for nature lovers. While temperatures can dip to a chilly 2°C at night, the afternoons still offer pleasant warmth that’s perfect for outdoor activities. To explore more about the unique climate of Mthatha, visit Mthatha Climate.