Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Pretoria, South Africa ushers in a delightful transition, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 2°C (36°F) at night to a warm peak of 28°C (84°F) during the day. The month boasts an average temperature of 15°C (60°F), making it an inviting time for outdoor activities. With only 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over the span of just one day, the humidity averages around 64%, creating a pleasant atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors to enjoy the city's natural beauty.
In May, Pretoria experiences a noticeable transition into cooler weather, with temperatures dipping significantly compared to the preceding months. The minimum temperature plummets to 2°C (36°F), creating crisp mornings, while the average temperature settles around 15°C (60°F), providing a comfortable ambiance for outdoor activities during the day. With a maximum temperature of 28°C (84°F), the afternoons can still feel quite warm, especially in the sun. This shift reflects a pattern of declining temperatures as the seasons change, making May an ideal time for those who enjoy mild weather before winter sets in.
In May, Pretoria experiences a significant drop in precipitation, with just 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain recorded over a mere single day. This is a stark contrast to the preceding months, particularly February, which sees the highest rainfall at 123 mm (4.8 in) across 14 days. As the rainy season winds down, the city transitions into the dry winter months, with June continuing the trend with only 5 mm (0.2 in), and almost no rainfall expected in July and August. The clear shift from earlier downpours to drier spells marks a seasonal change, showcasing Pretoria's strong seasonal variation in precipitation patterns.
In May, Pretoria experiences a mild humidity level of 64%, continuing a trend of slightly declining moisture that started in April. This figure reflects a gradual decrease from January's peak of 70% humidity, as the region transitions into the cooler winter months. Unlike the sticky heat of the summer, May offers a comfortable atmosphere as humidity remains relatively stable through this period. Following this month, a further dip to 61% in June marks the onset of winter, suggesting that while May maintains a touch of warmth, it also heralds the approaching dryness of the colder season. Overall, the month serves as a pleasant encore to the wetter summer months, showcasing Pretoria's ability to balance humidity as the seasons shift.
In May, Pretoria experiences a notable shift in UV exposure, with a UV Index of 7, categorized as high, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. This is a significant improvement compared to the extreme levels earlier in the year, where January and February boasted a daunting UV Index of 16 and 15, respectively, both demanding caution with only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. As autumn sets in, the UV Index gradually declines, yet remains above moderate levels, indicating that sun safety should still be a priority. This trend of decreasing UV intensity allows for a more relaxed experience outdoors, albeit with continued awareness needed. For those looking to monitor the UV Index throughout the year, more information can be found here.
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In May, Pretoria enjoys a delightful average of 320 hours of sunshine, continuing the warm trend from earlier months. Following the peak in March with 354 hours, sunlight hours dipping slightly before May reflect the city's consistent and charming climate. As the year progresses, the hours gradually increase, peaking in the late spring and early summer months. This consistent golden glow not only brightens the city but also supports the vibrant outdoor culture and lifestyle that Pretoria is known for, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration before the cold sets in.
In Pretoria, May heralds the arrival of increasingly favorable weather, boasting an 83% chance of sunny days. Following a steady rise from a mere 30% in January to an impressive 80% in April, May continues this upward trend, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This pattern suggests that as the seasons shift from the cooler months of autumn to the pleasant days of late spring, residents and visitors alike can anticipate plenty of sunshine. With the likelihood of clear skies only increasing in June to 85%, May offers an ideal window for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant landscapes of Pretoria.
In Pretoria, South Africa, the daylight duration experiences a fascinating ebb and flow throughout the year. January kicks off with a generous 13 hours of daylight, setting a bright tone for the summer months. As the seasons transition, February and March maintain a steady 12 hours, while April sees a gradual decrease to 11 hours as autumn approaches. May marks the peak of this decline, with daylight dwindling to 10 hours, a trend that continues into June and July. However, as winter gives way to spring, daylight begins to stretch again, with August and September offering 11 hours before ascending back to 12 hours in October. The cycle rejuvenates with the return of longer days in November and December, each boasting 13 hours that echo the vibrant energy of summer. This rhythmic pattern highlights the annual dance of daylight in Pretoria, where nature's calendar gracefully transitions with the seasons.
In May, Pretoria experiences a gentle resurgence in wind, with average speeds reaching 2.7 m/s (6 mph)—a notable uptick from April's lighter breezes. This month serves as a transition, where the winds begin to pick up momentum as winter approaches, paving the way for an increase in wind strength that continues into the subsequent months. As the city moves into June and July, winds climb gradually to 2.8 m/s (6 mph) and 2.9 m/s (6 mph), respectively, signaling the arrival of cooler temperatures. The trend showcases a pattern where May's soft winds are just a precursor to a fresh, invigorating air movement that accompanies the chill of winter, setting a rhythmic cadence for the months ahead.
Weather in Pretoria varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Pretoria, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, it is evident that January experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with an average of 22°C (72°F) compared to May's average of 15°C (60°F). January's maximum temperature can soar up to 36°C (97°F), while May peaks at a much milder 28°C (84°F). Additionally, January is characterized by much higher precipitation levels, receiving about 108 mm (4.3 in) across 11 days, in stark contrast to May's minimal 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 1 day. Humidity levels are somewhat similar, with January at 70% and May at 64%. For more insights, check out Pretoria weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, it becomes clear that February is generally warmer and wetter. February experiences higher temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at 34°C (94°F). In contrast, May’s temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to an average of 15°C (60°F), and a maximum of 28°C (84°F). Additionally, February sees significant rainfall, with 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days, compared to May’s much lighter precipitation of just 13 mm (0.5 in) on only 1 day. Both months maintain similar humidity levels, with February at 65% and May at 64%. For more information, you can check Pretoria weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. March experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F), compared to May's range of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F). Additionally, March is notably wetter, with 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, while May sees only 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain over just 1 day. Interestingly, both months share similar humidity levels of 64%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can check out Pretoria weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, April tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), while May's temperatures are milder, featuring a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 28°C (84°F). Additionally, April experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days, compared to May's much drier climate, which sees only 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain on just 1 day. Humidity levels remain quite similar in both months, with April at 63% and May slightly higher at 64%. For more detailed information about April's weather in Pretoria, visit Pretoria weather in April.
May and June weather show notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 15°C (60°F), accompanied by 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just one day and a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, June experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and peaking at 26°C (79°F), resulting in an average of 12°C (55°F). Additionally, June benefits from significantly less moisture, only recording 5 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall across zero rainy days and slightly lower humidity at 61%. For more detailed information, visit Pretoria weather in June.
In May, the weather in Pretoria showcases a range of temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and a maximum reaching 28°C (84°F). The month is relatively wet, experiencing about 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just one day, while humidity remains steady at 64%. In contrast, July presents cooler conditions, where the minimum temperature drops to -1°C (31°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). This month is notably drier, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, while humidity stays constant at 64%. For more details on the weather specifics in July, visit Pretoria weather in July.
In May, the weather showcases a pleasant range, featuring temperatures that fluctuate from a low of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable high of 28°C (84°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (60°F). The month experiences modest precipitation of 13 mm (0.5 in) over just one day, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 64%.
In contrast, August presents slightly milder temperatures, with lows of 1°C (35°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and highs reaching 29°C (85°F). Notably, there's significantly less rainfall in August, only 2 mm (0.1 in) with no rainy days, and humidity decreases a bit to 61%.
For a deeper dive into the August weather specifics, you can explore more here: Pretoria weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns, catering to different preferences. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a pleasant maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 15°C (60°F). It experiences light precipitation of about 13 mm (0.5 in) on just one day, coupled with a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, September witnesses a slightly warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and a higher average of 19°C (67°F), reaching a maximum of 35°C (95°F). While September has less total precipitation at 7 mm (0.3 in), it occurs slightly more frequently over two days, and humidity is marginally higher at 65%. This seasonal shift is evident, making September a warmer, drier time compared to May. For a more in-depth look, check out Pretoria weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F), with an average of 15°C (60°F). The month typically sees only about 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just one day and maintains a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, October boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum soaring to 36°C (97°F), averaging 21°C (69°F). However, it is significantly wetter, receiving 54 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall over seven days, while humidity remains relatively low at 61%. For more detailed information about the weather conditions in October, you can refer to Pretoria weather in October.
In May, the weather in Pretoria is characterized by milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F), reaching a maximum of 28°C (84°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, averaging just 13 mm (0.5 in) over about one day, and the humidity is around 64%. In contrast, November presents much warmer conditions, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F), peaking at a maximum of 35°C (95°F). However, this month also brings significant rainfall, accumulating 82 mm (3.2 in) over approximately 12 days, with a slightly higher humidity level of 68%. For more detailed insights, check out Pretoria weather in November.
May and December present a striking contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable average of 15°C (60°F), peaking at 28°C (84°F). This month experiences low precipitation, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) recorded over just one rainy day and a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, December is significantly warmer, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and reaching an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a scorching 35°C (96°F). However, December brings much more rain, totaling 150 mm (5.9 in) over 15 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 72%. For more detailed information, check out Pretoria weather in December.
As you step into May in Pretoria, you'll experience a delightful transition as the southern autumn sets in. The weather offers a refreshing change, with moderate temperatures averaging around 15°C (60°F), making it significantly cooler than the preceding summer months. With only a handful of rainy days and low precipitation, May provides plenty of sunshine accompanied by a comfortable humidity level of 64%. This is a stark contrast to the heat and humidity of the preceding months, making May an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. For more in-depth information on what to expect throughout the year, visit Pretoria Climate.