Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Richards Bay, South Africa offers a delightful mix of warm temperatures and humidity, making for an inviting late-autumn climate. With maximum highs reaching 31°C (88°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), the weather is comfortably warm, while nights can cool down to a pleasant 11°C (53°F). Rainfall is moderate, with 103 mm (4.0 in) recorded over 9 days, contributing to the lush scenery typical of this coastal region. However, expect a notable humidity level of 86%, which enhances the tropical feel. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of May, where nature flourishes amidst warm and welcoming days.
In May, Richards Bay, South Africa, experiences a delightful transition into the cooler months, with average temperatures settling at a comfortable 21°C (70°F). The month starts off with minimums dipping to 11°C (53°F), offering a refreshing chill that contrasts nicely with the warmer days, where highs can reach up to 31°C (88°F). This notable decline from April's warmth signals the end of summer's intensity, as temperatures gradually shift from their peak 35°C (96°F) in January to a more temperate climate. As the crisp air sets in, May provides an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities and exploration, making it a lovely time to visit this vibrant coastal city.
In May, Richards Bay experiences a moderate precipitation level of 103 mm (4.0 in), which falls across approximately 9 days throughout the month. This marks a slight decrease from the more substantial rainfall observed in February, but it retains a healthy count, indicating the region's vibrant subtropical climate. As the city transitions into the colder months of June and July, May's rainfall signals a gradual tapering off, reflecting a consistent trend of diminishing precipitation after the peak summer months. Overall, this month serves as a bridge, facilitating the shift from the soaking rains of early autumn to the drier winter period ahead.
In Richards Bay, South Africa, May brings a continuation of the region's characteristic humidity, hovering around 86%, consistent with the previous months from February to April. This notable level of moisture is part of a trend that sees the humidity peak during the hottest months of the year, including a gradual rise leading into November, where it reaches 87%. The humid conditions of May contribute to the lush landscapes typical of the area, while the subsequent months experience a slight drop, signaling the onset of winter with June and July cooling down to 80%. Through this cycle, Richards Bay maintains its reputation for a humid climate, ensuring that residents and visitors alike experience the island-like atmosphere year-round.
In May, Richards Bay experiences a UV Index of 6, indicating a high level of UV exposure with a recommended burn time of 25 minutes. This marks a shift from the preceding months, where the UV Index peaked at extreme levels of 14 through April. As the cooler months approach, May's UV performance is more moderate yet still requires vigilance for sun safety. Notably, while the sun’s intensity is reduced compared to the summer months, it's essential to remain cautious during outdoor activities. With the UV Index gradually decreasing into June and July, Richards Bay residents and visitors should stay informed and take appropriate precautions to protect their skin. For more detailed information, visit the Richards Bay UV Index.
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May in Richards Bay, South Africa, enjoys a delightful 300 hours of sunshine, maintaining a steady brightness that follows the high of 345 hours in March. As autumn sets in, the sun gradually wanes, yet May stands as a vibrant transitional month, nestled between the plentiful light of earlier months and the cooler days of winter ahead. This trend reveals a comforting consistency in sunny days, as the region typically bathes in over 300 hours of sunlight from January through May, with only a slight dip in April. Moving beyond May, June marks the beginning of a gradual decrease in sunshine hours, hinting at the approaching winter, yet the warmth of May's sun lingers in the memory of residents and visitors alike.
As May unfolds in Richards Bay, South Africa, the likelihood of basking in sunny weather rises to an inviting 70%. This marks a notable increase from the preceding months, with April's sunshine probability at 60% and a significant leap from February's mere 25%. May stands out as a pivotal transition into a sunnier spell, leading into June, which boasts an impressive 75% chance of clear skies. This upward trend in sunlight hints at the region’s warming shift as winter approaches, promising a delightful mix of warmth and brightness for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. With these favorable conditions, May truly becomes a charming time for both residents and visitors alike.
As the seasons transition in Richards Bay, South Africa, May brings a noticeable shift in daylight duration, with sunlight lasting around 10 hours per day. Following a gradual decline from 13 hours in January, the days continue to shorten through April, reaching their shortest point in May. This trend of diminishing daylight persists into June and July, where 10 hours of daylight remains constant. However, as winter gives way to spring, daylight begins to extend once again in August, creeping back up to 11 hours. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also enriches the experience of life in Richards Bay, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the varied hues of each time of year.
In May, Richards Bay experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), which is a slight dip from the more invigorating winds of April. This transition marks a continuation of the generally moderate wind patterns observed in early autumn, setting the stage for the brisk gusts that begin to emerge in the following months. As temperatures cool, wind speeds gradually increase, peaking in September at 5.6 m/s (13 mph) before settling back down in the summer months. This rhythmic shift in wind patterns not only enhances the region’s coastal charm but also contributes to its appeal for outdoor activities year-round.
Weather in Richards Bay varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Richards Bay, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In May, the weather is generally milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of around 21°C (70°F). The month experiences about 103 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over roughly 9 days, combined with high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, January brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum reaching up to 35°C (96°F), averaging at 25°C (78°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation at 115 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days, the humidity remains relatively comparable at 85%. For more detailed information, you can visit Richards Bay weather in January.
May and February present different climatic experiences, despite similar humidity levels of 86%. In February, temperatures are generally warmer, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and maximum reaching up to 37°C (99°F), coupled with higher precipitation totaling 161 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days. In comparison, May offers a more moderate climate, with minimums around 11°C (53°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F), along with lower precipitation of 103 mm (4.0 in) spread over 9 days. For more detailed information, you can refer to Richards Bay weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, we see some notable differences despite both months exhibiting high humidity levels of 86%. May tends to have a cooler range of temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 21°C (70°F). In contrast, March is warmer, starting with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and reaching up to 33°C (92°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent, with May experiencing 103 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days and March slightly wetter with 115 mm (4.5 in) across 12 days. For a more detailed look at March weather, check out Richards Bay weather in March.
When comparing the weather between April and May, April boasts slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while May starts cooler, with a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). However, May experiences a more significant range in maximum temperatures, peaking at 31°C (88°F), compared to April's maximum of 33°C (92°F). In terms of precipitation, April has less rainfall, totaling 70 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days, while May sees increased rainfall of 103 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 86%. For more detailed insights, you can check Richards Bay weather in April.
May and June present distinct weather patterns, with May experiencing slightly warmer temperatures and higher humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), maintaining an average of 21°C (70°F), while June sees a decrease in average temperature to 19°C (67°F) with a similar minimum but a slightly lower maximum of 30°C (85°F). Additionally, May is wetter, receiving 103 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days compared to June's 37 mm (1.4 in) over just 6 days. The humidity also drops from 86% in May to 80% in June, marking a transition to drier conditions. For a detailed overview of June's weather, you can refer to Richards Bay weather in June.
May and July exhibit distinct weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures fluctuate between a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 103 mm (4.0 in) across 9 rainy days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, July experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Additionally, July is much drier, receiving only 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain over 5 days and a lower humidity level of 80%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this month, check out Richards Bay weather in July.
May and August exhibit some intriguing contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 103 mm (4.0 in) over approximately 9 rainy days, coupled with high humidity levels averaging 86%. Conversely, August's temperatures are slightly cooler, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and still reaching a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is much lower in August, amounting to 49 mm (1.9 in) over around 10 days, and humidity levels drop to 79%. For more details about the August weather, you can explore Richards Bay weather in August.
In May, the weather features a mild average temperature of 21°C (70°F), with daytime highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F) and nighttime lows dipping to 11°C (53°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 86% and sees a total precipitation of 103 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days. In contrast, September offers slightly warmer nights with minimum temperatures of 13°C (56°F) and higher maximum temperatures, hitting 36°C (97°F), while maintaining an average of 21°C (69°F). With a total precipitation of 59 mm (2.3 in) over the same 9 days, September is drier than May, and humidity remains relatively stable at 85%. For more details on the weather in September, you can check Richards Bay weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar average temperatures, both hovering around 21°C (70°F). However, notable differences emerge in their extremes: May features a cooler minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) compared to October's slightly warmer 13°C (56°F) and a maximum temperature that peaks at 31°C (88°F) in May, while October reaches a higher maximum of 36°C (97°F). Precipitation levels are fairly close, with May receiving slightly more rain at 103 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days, while October has 94 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, indicating a wetter October spread over more days. Both months maintain high humidity levels at 86%. For more details, you can visit Richards Bay weather in October.
May and November exhibit contrasting yet mild weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F). This month sees around 103 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In contrast, November experiences slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 35°C (94°F), averaging 22°C (73°F). However, it also brings more rainfall, totaling 124 mm (4.9 in) spread across 13 days, all while maintaining a similar humidity level of 87%. For more details on November weather, visit Richards Bay weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, we see some notable differences. May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), while December boasts warmer lows of 17°C (64°F) and highs reaching 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is slightly less in December at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, compared to May’s 103 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days. Both months share high humidity levels of 86%, giving December a more tropical feel despite slightly less rain. For a deeper look at December weather, you can check Richards Bay weather in December.
As May arrives in Richards Bay, the weather begins to shift significantly compared to the balmy summer months. With an average temperature of 21°C (70°F), it offers a comfortable respite, though daytime highs can still reach a warm 31°C (88°F). While the humidity remains notably high at 86%, the month also brings increased rainfall, with 103 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. This combination of warmth and moisture creates a unique atmosphere, setting May apart from the drier conditions typically experienced in other months. For more insights on weather patterns, check out Richards Bay Climate.