Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Nelspruit, South Africa brings a delightful mix of mild temperatures and refreshing rainfall, making it a picturesque time to visit. With a maximum temperature reaching 30°C (87°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), the days are pleasantly warm, while the nights cool down to a comfortable 4°C (40°F). Expect approximately 25 mm (1.0 in) of rain over the month, typically spread across about 4 days, adding to the lush scenery. Humidity levels sit at around 75%, enhancing the vibrant greenery that characterizes this beautiful region. Enjoy the balance of warmth and mild moisture that May in Nelspruit offers!
In Nelspruit, South Africa, May marks a notable transition as the cooler autumn days settle in. With minimum temperatures dipping to 4°C (40°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), it's a refreshing change after the warmer summer months. The maximum temperature, reaching 30°C (87°F), offers a pleasant contrast, allowing for comfortable outdoor activities. Compared to April, where the average hovered around 19°C (67°F), May showcases a clear trend toward cooler, crisper days that invite cozy sweaters and vibrant autumn scenery. This month not only ushers in a more temperate climate but also sets the stage for the chillier winter months ahead.
In May, Nelspruit experiences a noticeable decline in precipitation, receiving only 25 mm (1.0 in) over a mere 4 days of rainfall. This marks a significant drop from the wetter months preceding it, such as February that tallies 216 mm (8.5 in). As the region transitions into the drier winter months, the decrease in both total rainfall and rainy days highlights a trend towards less frequent precipitation. Following April's mild 52 mm, May continues the trend of reduced rainfall, setting the stage for the arid conditions typical of June and July. With May's light showers, residents can enjoy the crisp autumn air while preparing for the upcoming dry season ahead.
In May, Nelspruit experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 75%, which is among the higher levels for the year. This increase marks a slight rebound from the previous month's 69%, reflecting the shift toward the wetter winter months. As Nelspruit transitions from the drier early year, where humidity dipped to a low of 67% in March, May’s humidity aligns closely with the surrounding months of October and November, which also hover around 75% to 76%. This pattern suggests a consistent humidity trend characterized by fluctuations that peak during the late fall and into the early summer, creating a warm, moist atmosphere ideal for the region's lush vegetation.
In May, Nelspruit experiences a UV Index of 8, categorized as very high, which signifies a shift from the extreme levels witnessed in the earlier months of the year. At this level, the burn time for unprotected skin is approximately 15 minutes, highlighting the need for sun safety awareness as temperatures begin to cool. This trend marks a gradual decline in UV intensity from the peak levels of January through April, yet it remains important for residents and visitors to stay vigilant. While May's UV Index signifies a slightly more manageable situation, those planning outdoor activities should continue to take precautions to protect their skin. For more detailed information on the UV Index throughout the year, visit the Nelspruit UV Index.
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May in Nelspruit, South Africa, is a delightful precursor to the winter months, boasting 317 hours of sunshine. This month continues a trend of ample sunlight that begins its ascent in March, peaks in December with a dazzling 365 hours, and maintains a robust average throughout the rest of the year. After the slightly lower totals in April, May's sunshine reflects the region’s consistent warmth, making it one of the best times to explore the great outdoors. From April’s 314 hours to May's slightly increased 317, these hours hint at the steady stability of Nelspruit's climate, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can enjoy the vibrant landscapes under a generous sun. The pattern of sunshine not only enhances the beauty of this enchanting locale but also sets the stage for exciting outdoor activities that thrive in such welcoming weather.
As May approaches in Nelspruit, South Africa, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather remains quite promising, with a 72% chance of sunshine. This figure follows a noteworthy upward trend from earlier months, particularly the 75% chance in April. After a rather dreary start to the year, where January and February hovered around 24% and 20% respectively, the sun's presence becomes increasingly likely as autumn transitions into early winter. With June and July boasting an even higher likelihood at 83% and 86%, May offers a delightful balance, promising plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration under bright skies.
As the calendar turns to May in Nelspruit, South Africa, daylight begins to wane, with only 10 hours of sunlight illuminating the day. This marks a shift from the long, sun-soaked days of summer, where January and February boast up to 13 hours. As autumn progresses, April sees daylight decline to 11 hours, and May maintains this trend, bringing a subtle transition into the cooler months of June and July, which also offer 10 hours of daylight. The rhythm of nature is evident as daylight gradually extends again from August, hinting at the fast-approaching spring, culminating in 11 hours once more in August. This cyclical pattern invites residents and visitors to embrace the unique charms each season offers, blending tranquility with the promise of renewal as each day gradually gains light again in the latter part of the year.
In May, Nelspruit experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 1.6 m/s (4 mph), slightly reviving from the quieter months of March and April. This mild increase positions May comfortably in line with the typical wind patterns of the preceding months, where speeds generally hover around 1.4 to 1.7 m/s. With the transition into winter approaching, the winds gradually intensify, paving the way for the season ahead. As the year unfolds, the wind speed begins to climb in June, hinting at a trend toward more robust breezes in the coming months. This subtle shift in the wind enhances the already pleasant climate of Nelspruit, making May an ideal time for outdoor activities amidst the tranquil, refreshing air.
Weather in Nelspruit varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Nelspruit, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather of May and January, it's evident that January tends to be warmer and wetter. In May, the temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (62°F), with highs reaching up to 30°C (87°F). Precipitation during this month is relatively low, at 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 4 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%.
Conversely, January experiences much higher temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a sweltering 35°C (96°F). This month is also significantly wetter, receiving 154 mm (6.1 in) of rainfall across 15 days, while maintaining a similar humidity of 74%. For more detailed insights into January's climate, you can explore Nelspruit weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, it's clear that February tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F). In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). February also sees a significantly higher amount of precipitation, averaging 216 mm (8.5 in) over 19 days, compared to May's 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 4 days. Despite the slight difference in humidity levels, with May at 75% and February at 71%, it’s clear that February is not only warmer but also much wetter. For more details, check out Nelspruit weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May typically enjoys a pleasant average temperature of 16°C (62°F) with a maximum of 30°C (87°F), while March tends to be warmer, with an average of 21°C (70°F) and peaks reaching 34°C (94°F). Despite March's higher temperatures, it also experiences significantly more rainfall, averaging 84 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, compared to May's lighter precipitation of just 25 mm (1.0 in) over 4 days. Humidity in May remains relatively high at 75%, while March is slightly lower at 67%. For a more detailed overview, you can check Nelspruit weather in March.
In comparing the weather conditions of May and April, we notice several key differences. April tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures hitting 19°C (67°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (91°F), while May sees a cooler average of 16°C (62°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Notably, April experiences more precipitation, with 52 mm (2.1 in) spread over 9 days compared to May's 25 mm (1.0 in) over only 4 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 75%, compared to April's 69%. For more detailed insights into April's weather, you can check Nelspruit weather in April.
May tends to be warmer than June, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), and an average of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, June sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is also less frequent in June, occurring on just 2 days, compared to 4 days in May, and the total rainfall is lower at 13 mm (0.5 in) compared to May's 25 mm (1.0 in). Additionally, June experiences lower humidity at 68%, while May has a higher humidity level of 75%. For more details on the weather in June, you can check Nelspruit weather in June.
In May, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 16°C (62°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 25 mm (1.0 in) over 4 days and a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, July sees a lower minimum temperature of 1°C (33°F) with a slightly lower average temperature of 14°C (57°F), even though it can still reach highs of 30°C (86°F). Precipitation in July drops significantly to just 5 mm (0.2 in) over 2 days, with humidity slightly decreasing to 73%. For more details on weather conditions during this month, check out Nelspruit weather in July.
In comparing May and August weather, both months exhibit similar minimum and average temperatures, with May slightly warmer on average at 16°C (62°F) compared to August's 16°C (61°F). The maximum temperatures are reasonably close as well, reaching up to 30°C (87°F) in May and peaking at 32°C (90°F) in August. Precipitation levels are identical at 25 mm (1.0 in), though August experiences slightly more rainy days, with precipitation occurring on six days compared to four in May. Humidity is also comparable, with May being a touch more humid at 75% versus August's 71%. For more details on August weather, view this link: Nelspruit weather in August.
May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns in Nelspruit. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C to a maximum of 30°C, with an average of 16°C and relatively low precipitation of 25 mm over just four days. The humidity level is quite high at 75%. In contrast, September sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C and a maximum reaching up to 36°C, averaging 18°C, while precipitation increases to 29 mm across seven days. The humidity remains similar at 76%. For a more detailed look at September's climate, check out Nelspruit weather in September.
When comparing the weather in May and October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May features a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F), with relatively low precipitation of 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 4 days. In contrast, October sees milder minimum temperatures at 7°C (45°F) and a higher average of 19°C (66°F), with maximum temperatures soaring up to 38°C (100°F). Additionally, October is significantly wetter, experiencing 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain across 13 days, maintaining a consistent humidity level of 75%. For more detailed weather insights, visit Nelspruit weather in October.
May and November offer quite contrasting weather experiences. In May, the temperatures range from a cool 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, with average temperatures hovering around 16°C (62°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 25 mm (1.0 in) over just four days and a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, November features warmer nights with a minimum temperature of 9°C (48°F) and can reach up to a scorching 36°C (98°F) during the day, averaging 20°C (69°F). However, November also brings significant rainfall, accumulating 108 mm (4.3 in) over 16 days, along with a slightly higher humidity level of 76%. For more information, visit Nelspruit weather in November.
In May, temperatures in Nelspruit are milder, with daily highs reaching up to 30°C (87°F) and lows around 4°C (40°F). The average temperature stands at a comfortable 16°C (62°F), complemented by relatively low precipitation of 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 4 days and humidity levels around 75%. In contrast, December brings significantly warmer weather, with maximum temperatures soaring to 36°C (98°F) and minimums at a much warmer 12°C (53°F). The average temperature rises to 22°C (71°F), but this period also sees increased rainfall, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) over 19 days, with humidity slightly higher at 78%. For more details, you can check Nelspruit weather in December.
As May unfolds in Nelspruit, the weather becomes milder and more refreshing, marking a shift from the heat of the preceding months. With temperatures dipping to a comfortable average of 16°C, residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors without the sweltering humidity typical of summer. Though May sees a slight increase in cloud cover and occasional rain—averaging just 25 mm over about four days—the overall ambiance remains pleasant and inviting. The humidity settles at a moderate 75%, making this month a perfect time for exploring the lush landscapes. For those curious about how Nelspruit's weather varies throughout the year, delve deeper into the details at Nelspruit Climate.