Last updated: August 31, 2025
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, in May experiences a delightful range of weather, with maximum temperatures soaring up to 30°C (86°F) and an average temperature of a comfortable 16°C (61°F). Early mornings can be brisk, with minimum temperatures dipping to 2°C (36°F). The month typically sees 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over six days, contributing to a lush, vibrant landscape. Additionally, humidity levels hover around a high 86%, creating a pleasantly refreshing atmosphere. Enjoy the dynamic charm of Pietermaritzburg this May while embracing the beautiful interplay of warmth and coolness.
In Pietermaritzburg, May ushers in a notable shift in temperatures as the warm embrace of summer gives way to the crispness of autumn. With minimums dropping to 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), the month feels decidedly cooler compared to the preceding months. Daytime highs reach a comfortable 30°C (86°F), creating pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. This transition is marked by a gradual decline in temperatures, especially from April’s peak warmth, while still retaining remnants of late summer's warmth. As the city gears up for winter, residents and visitors alike can enjoy this temperate climate that strikes a delightful balance between warmth and chill.
In May, Pietermaritzburg experiences a notable transition in its weather patterns, as precipitation takes a dip to 51 mm (2.0 in), significantly lower than the preceding months. This decrease is accompanied by just six rainy days, reflecting the gradual shift towards the drier winter months ahead. Compared to April's 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days and the heavier rains of February and November, May stands out as a relatively calm period. This trend of diminishing rainfall continues into June, where the city faces a further reduction to only 12 mm (0.5 in). Such patterns highlight May as a pivotal month, serving as a bridge from the wetter, warmer season into the cooler, drier months of the year.
In May, Pietermaritzburg experiences a steady humidity level of 86%, consistent with the trends of the preceding months. This persistent humidity creates a lush atmosphere, characteristic of the region as it transitions towards winter. The high humidity levels, maintained from January through April, signal a sustained moisture presence in the air before a gradual decrease to 80% in June and July. With a slight dip during the mid-year months, humidity ramps back up in the warmer months of September and beyond, illustrating a clear seasonal rhythm that envelops the city. Overall, May captures the tail end of a humid spell, setting the stage for the cooler dryness of winter while still embracing the lush greenery that defines Pietermaritzburg’s charm.
In May, Pietermaritzburg experiences a notable decline in UV exposure, with a UV Index of 6, categorized as high. This marks a significant drop from the extreme levels seen in the earlier months, where the burn time was a mere 10 minutes in January through March. As temperatures begin to cool and the sun's intensity wanes, residents can safely enjoy outdoor activities for up to 25 minutes without the immediate risk of sunburn. This trend underscores a seasonal shift from the extreme heat of summer to the more moderate conditions of late autumn. As always, for the most up-to-date information on sun safety, refer to the Pietermaritzburg UV Index.
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May in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, is a delightful transition into winter, boasting 301 hours of sunshine. This figure, while slightly lower than the 334 hours seen in March, is consistent with the area's overall trend of abundant daylight throughout the year. Notably, the sun shines brightly from January to December, with minutes of sunshine gradually decreasing as the year progresses. After peaking in December with an impressive 343 hours, the trend gently declines into winter months, yet May comfortably holds its own with strong sunlight, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant landscape of the region.
May in Pietermaritzburg offers a delightful 65% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months in the region. As the cooler autumn days approach, this month stands out with a noticeable increase in sunshine compared to the preceding months; April sits at a respectable 51% but pales in comparison. This positive trend continues into June and July, where sunny probabilities rise even further, peaking at 85% in July. While the year begins with lower chances of sunshine—plummeting to just 19% in December—May presents an ideal opportunity for outdoor activities, allowing residents and visitors alike to bask in the warmth of the sun before the winter chill sets in.
As the seasons shift in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, May marks a noticeable transition into shorter days, with daylight lasting approximately 10 hours. This follows a steady decline from January’s 13 hours, peaking in the summer months, and gradually tapering to 11 hours in April. The trend continues into the cooler months of June and July, where daylight remains consistent at 10 hours. A slow recovery begins in late winter, as daylight nudges back to 11 hours in August and September, suggesting a gentle reawakening as spring approaches. The cyclical nature of daylight duration clearly illustrates the region's subtropical climate, with longer, sun-drenched days in the summer, giving way to crisp, shorter days as autumn settles in.
In May, Pietermaritzburg enjoys a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.0 m/s (5 mph), consistent with the more tranquil conditions of the preceding months. This slight dip from April's 2.0 m/s signals the region's transition into the colder winter months, where winds will eventually pick up again in June to 2.4 m/s. Notably, the wind speeds in Pietermaritzburg display a gradual increase as the year progresses towards more dynamic conditions in the second half, peaking in late winter and early spring. The steady yet mild winds in May create a serene atmosphere, perfectly suited for outdoor activities, allowing residents and visitors to relish the arrival of autumn while preparing for the invigorating breezes that lie ahead.
Weather in Pietermaritzburg varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Pietermaritzburg, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition between seasons. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In contrast, January tends to be warmer, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). This month sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) across about 15 days, while humidity remains quite similar at 85%. For more detailed information, visit Pietermaritzburg weather in January.
May and February present notably different weather patterns. In February, average temperatures are warmer, ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, accumulating 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 rainy days, which contributes to a humid atmosphere at 86%. In contrast, May has milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Precipitation decreases to 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 6 days, making May generally drier and cooler compared to February. For more detailed information, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, it's clear that March tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures reaching 21°C (69°F) and highs of 34°C (93°F). In contrast, May has a more moderate temperature range, with average highs around 16°C (61°F) and maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is also notably higher in March, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days, compared to May's 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 6 days. Despite both months sharing a high humidity level of 86%, March's frequent rain can make it feel muggy, while May's lower precipitation leads to more comfortable conditions. For more detailed insights, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in March.
In comparing the weather from April to May, April tends to be warmer overall, with a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a staggering maximum of 36°C (97°F). In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of just 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in April, with 65 mm (2.6 in) falling over 12 days, compared to May's 51 mm (2.0 in) over 6 days. Both months share a similar humidity level of 86%. For more detailed information on April's weather conditions, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in April.
May generally presents a warmer climate compared to June, with average temperatures reaching 16°C (61°F) and maximums of 30°C (86°F). In contrast, June sees a slight drop in overall temperatures, averaging 13°C (56°F) and peaking at 29°C (84°F). While May experiences more rainfall, accumulating 51 mm (2.0 in) over six days, June is relatively dry with only 12 mm (0.5 in) across two days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 86%, compared to June’s 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, May tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and a maximum reaching 30°C (86°F). In contrast, July experiences cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a minimum of 0°C (33°F). Precipitation levels are also notably higher in May, with 51 mm (2.0 in) of rainfall over 6 days, while July sees much less rain, recording only 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 86%, compared to 80% in July. For more detailed information, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in July.
In May, the weather showcases a broader temperature range with minimums around 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F), resulting in an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 6 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, August has a slightly narrower temperature range with minimums of 2°C (35°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F), averaging at 15°C (59°F). August sees less precipitation, totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) across approximately 9 days, and a drop in humidity to 79%. For more detailed information, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in August.
In May, temperatures in Pietermaritzburg range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately six days, with humidity levels peaking at 86%. In contrast, September brings slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and maximum highs reaching up to 37°C (98°F). The average temperature is a bit higher at 17°C (63°F), but it also experiences increased rainfall, totaling 60 mm (2.4 in) over about ten days and a slightly lower humidity of 85%. For more detailed insights into September's climate, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in September.
May and October exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, and the humidity remains high at 86%. In contrast, October experiences slightly milder lows starting at 6°C (43°F) and can reach as high as 38°C (100°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (64°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 86 mm (3.4 in) across 13 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 86%. For a closer look at October's weather specifics, visit Pietermaritzburg weather in October.
May and November showcase distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from late spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a cooler minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable maximum of 30°C (86°F) with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation at 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 6 days, and humidity levels hover around 86%.
In contrast, November offers slightly milder minimum temperatures at 5°C (41°F) and a higher average temperature of 19°C (66°F), with maximums reaching up to 35°C (96°F). However, it experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 17 days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 87%. For more specific details on November weather, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in November.
In May, temperatures in Pietermaritzburg range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees moderate precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 6 days, and humidity remains high at 86%. In contrast, December experiences warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 36°C (98°F), and an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). This month also brings significantly more rain, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over 22 days, yet maintains a consistent humidity level of 86%. For more details on December weather, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in December.
As May unfolds in Pietermaritzburg, the weather embraces a unique charm, transitioning from the warmth of summer into the cooler embrace of winter. With an average temperature that hovers around a refreshing 16°C (61°F) but can soar to 30°C (86°F) on warmer days, residents experience a delightful range that contrasts sharply with the sweltering heat of the preceding months. The air is thick with 86% humidity, contributing to a lush landscape, while a modest 51 mm of rainfall over just six days brings a welcome respite to the dry spells typical of earlier months. This blend of temperatures and occasional precipitation makes May an inviting period for outdoor exploration. For a deeper dive into how Pietermaritzburg's climate shapes its seasons, visit Pietermaritzburg Climate.