May Weather in Kimberley, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

May in Kimberley, South Africa offers a delightful transition into cooler weather, characterized by a maximum temperature of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), while minimum temperatures can dip to a brisk -2°C (29°F). With only 9 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation spread over just 2 days, the month sees relatively dry conditions. Despite this, humidity levels remain high at 76%, fostering a fresh atmosphere that enhances the allure of this historic city. Embrace the moderate climate and enjoy the unique charm Kimberley offers in May!

May Temperature in Kimberley

In May, Kimberley, South Africa, experiences a noticeable shift in temperatures as winter approaches. With lows dipping to a brisk -2°C (29°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), the days become cooler compared to the preceding months. The daytime highs reach a comfortable 29°C (84°F), providing a pleasant reprieve from the sweltering heat of summer. This transition marks a distinct change from the upper 30s °C seen in January and February, indicating the start of a more moderate climate. As the month unfolds, visitors can enjoy mild days and crisp nights, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities amid the stunning landscapes of this historic region.

May Weather in Kimberley: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kimberley, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kimberley, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec777672655752515564707377
Data source: Temperature data for Kimberley generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Kimberley

In May, Kimberley, South Africa, experiences a notable drop in precipitation, registering only 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain over just 2 days. This stark reduction continues the trend observed in the region as it transitions toward winter, where rainfall dwindles significantly. Following a sequence of wetter months, including April’s 66 mm, May serves as a clear pivot to the dry season, with the upcoming months typically seeing minimal precipitation. With this dramatic shift, residents can expect clearer skies and drier conditions, setting the stage for the dry winter ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Kimberley

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kimberley, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Kimberley, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8482616692485294875
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Kimberley

May in Kimberley, South Africa, marks a notable transition in humidity levels, reaching 76%—one of the highest points in the year. This increase follows the steady rise from 65% in March and 75% in April, indicating a trend towards more humid conditions as autumn progresses. As the year continues, humidity levels will begin to decline, with June seeing a drop to 68% and further to 61% in July. The sharp contrast between May's humidity and the drier months ahead highlights Kimberley's climatic shifts, making May a pivotal time for experiencing the city's lingering autumn moisture.

May Average Humidity in Kimberley

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kimberley, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Kimberley is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec58%58%65%75%76%68%61%53%47%36%42%52%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kimberley

As the months progress in Kimberley, South Africa, the UV Index sees a notable decline from the intensity of summer to a more moderate stance in May. After the extreme levels of 15 found in January through March, and the very high index of 10 in April, May presents a UV Index of 7—categorizing the exposure as high. This results in a burn time of 25 minutes, allowing for a bit more leeway for sun lovers to enjoy the outdoors. Interestingly, the gradual decrease in UV levels indicates a transition towards winter, with June reflecting an even more moderate index of 5. Observing these trends helps residents and visitors alike stay sun-smart, ensuring protection against harmful rays even during the milder months. For more detailed insights, check out the Kimberley UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kimberley for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kimberley in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in Kimberley typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15151310755811121416
Data source: Kimberley May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Kimberley

May in Kimberley, South Africa, offers a delightful 316 hours of sunshine, continuing the trend of ample daylight that begins in the earlier months of the year. Following the sunniest months of January through March, which bask in over 300 hours each, May maintains a solid total, illustrating the region's commitment to bright days. As the season transitions into winter, sunshine gradually diminishes, yet May remains well-lit, inviting outdoor activities and adventures. The gradual decline continues into June with 296 hours, but the delightful warmth and light of May act as a charming bridge before the colder months arrive. With each passing month, Kimberley showcases its vibrant and sunny disposition, making May a prime time for enjoying the exceptional weather.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kimberley: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kimberley experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec317h340h362h320h316h296h312h330h342h376h387h403h
Data source: Kimberley May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kimberley During May

In Kimberley, South Africa, the likelihood of sunny weather in May reaches an impressive 82%, marking a significant increase from the preceding months. The trend of growing sunshine begins in January at just 46%, steadily climbing through the year as the region transitions into its warmer months. By April, residents and visitors can enjoy a more promising 78% chance of clear skies, but May truly shines as it outpaces its predecessors. As summer approaches in June, the likelihood rises even further to 86%, suggesting that May serves as a beautiful prelude to the sun-soaked days ahead. This steady upward trajectory highlights Kimberley’s allure during late autumn, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities under the warm South African sun.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kimberley

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kimberley throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Kimberley experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46%65%71%78%82%86%92%87%83%75%78%59%
Data source: Kimberley May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kimberley in May

In Kimberley, South Africa, the daylight hours follow an intriguing seasonal rhythm that reflects the changing weather patterns. January and February bask in a generous 13 hours of daylight, perfect for outdoor adventures. As summer yields to autumn, there’s a gradual decline, with March experiencing 12 hours and April dropping to 11 hours. By May, the daylight further diminishes to 10 hours, signaling the arrival of winter. Interestingly, this trend of reduced daylight persists through June and July, maintaining that same 10-hour mark. However, as August rolls in, the days begin to lengthen again, with daylight increasing back to 11 hours by the end of winter. September and October continue this upward trajectory, returning to 12 hours, while November and December bring back the summer glow with 13 hours of daylight, completing the cycle. This rhythmic ebb and flow of sunlight not only shapes daily life but also colors the vibrant seasonal landscape of Kimberley.

Average Daylight Hours in Kimberley for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kimberley throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 43m13h 3m12h 13m11h 21m10h 39m10h 19m10h 30m11h 6m11h 55m12h 46m13h 32m13h 55m
Data source: Kimberley daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kimberley

In May, Kimberley experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), which mirrors the calm of the previous month, April. This transitional month maintains a stable wind pattern that kicks off the gradual increase in velocity seen in the winter months ahead. As we progress towards June, the winds pick up, reaching 3.3 m/s (7 mph). The consistent nature of May’s breezes provides a serene backdrop, while hinting at the more invigorating gusts that characterize the subsequent months, making it a perfect time for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the crisp, refreshing air before the winds strengthen.

Average May Wind Speed in Kimberley

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kimberley, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.73.12.82.52.8 m/s3.33.13.43.83.83.43.4
Data source: Kimberley May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kimberley Compares to Other Months

Weather in Kimberley varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Kimberley, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In comparing the weather between May and January, May offers a more moderate climate with temperatures ranging from a chilly min of -2°C (29°F) to a comfortable max of 29°C (84°F), along with relatively low precipitation of 9 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days and higher humidity at 76%. In contrast, January is characterized by much warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 12°C (54°F), averaging 25°C (78°F), and reaching a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F). Additionally, January sees significantly more rainfall at 84 mm (3.3 in) spread across 9 days, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 58%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Kimberley weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, it's evident that February experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with minimums around 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching up to 38°C (100°F), compared to May's cooler range of -2°C (29°F) to 29°C (84°F). While February is marked by higher humidity at 58%, May maintains a more humid environment at 76%. Precipitation also varies greatly; February sees a substantial 82 mm (3.2 in) of rainfall over 11 days, whereas May receives only 9 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days. For more specific insights into February weather in Kimberley, you can visit Kimberley weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, one can observe significant differences. May typically experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). In contrast, March presents much warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 9°C (48°F), averaging 22°C (72°F), and peaking at 36°C (98°F). Additionally, March sees considerably more precipitation, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 9 days, while May is relatively dry with just 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain over 2 days. Despite the warmth in March, it also has lower humidity levels at 65%, compared to May's 76%. For a closer look at the specifics of March weather, visit Kimberley weather in March.

When comparing the weather in April and May, notable differences emerge. April experiences a wider temperature range with minimums of 4°C (40°F) and maximums soaring to 35°C (94°F), resulting in an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). It is also a wetter month, with a total precipitation of 66 mm (2.6 in) across 7 days. In contrast, May presents a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Notably, May has much lower precipitation at 9 mm (0.4 in) occurring over just 2 days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 76%. For detailed insights into the weather in April, you can visit Kimberley weather in April.

May experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums reaching -2°C (29°F) and maximums climbing to 29°C (84°F), while June sees slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Additionally, May has a higher average temperature of 14°C (58°F) compared to June's average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in May, with 9 mm (0.4 in) of rainfall over two days, whereas June enjoys drier conditions, registering just 2 mm (0.1 in) with no rainy days. The humidity in May is higher at 76%, in contrast to June's more comfortable level of 68%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Kimberley weather in June.

In comparing the weather of May and July, we notice some interesting differences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 14°C (58°F), with a maximum reaching 29°C (84°F). The month sees a bit more precipitation at 9 mm (0.4 in) over 2 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels of 76%. Conversely, July experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), while the maximum is slightly lower at 28°C (82°F). Surprisingly, July has less precipitation, at only 4 mm (0.2 in) and no rainy days, and it also features lower humidity at 61%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can visit Kimberley weather in July.

May and August exhibit some notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F) and a relatively high humidity level of 76%. The month experiences approximately 9 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over two days. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), averaging 13°C (55°F), and a lower humidity level of 53%. August also has less precipitation, measuring 8 mm (0.3 in) over just one day. For more detailed insights into the weather during this month, you can check Kimberley weather in August.

May and September present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to early summer. In May, temperatures can dip as low as -2°C (29°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F) and highs reaching 29°C (84°F). This month typically sees about 9 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over 2 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 76%. In contrast, September experiences slightly cooler minimum temperatures, dropping to -3°C (27°F), but with a higher average of 18°C (65°F) and maximums soaring up to 36°C (96°F). Precipitation is less frequent, totaling only 5 mm (0.2 in) over just 1 day, and the humidity drops significantly to 47%. For a detailed look at September's weather in Kimberley, check out Kimberley weather in September.

May and October present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures can drop to a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) but generally average around a mild 14°C (58°F), peaking at a warm 29°C (84°F). The month typically experiences light precipitation, averaging just 9 mm (0.4 in) over two days, coupled with higher humidity levels at 76%.

In contrast, October features a more moderate temperature range, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and average highs reaching 21°C (70°F) as well as maximum temperatures soaring to an impressive 38°C (101°F). Rainfall increases in October, averaging 29 mm (1.1 in) over three days, but the humidity drops significantly to 36%. For more details on October weather, visit Kimberley weather in October.

When comparing the weather in May and November, it is evident that November tends to be considerably warmer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a comfortable maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F). In contrast, November boasts a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and can reach a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F), averaging around 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is also notably higher in November, with 48 mm (1.9 in) falling over 5 days, compared to May's 9 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 76%, while November sees a drier 42%. For more details on November weather specifically, visit Kimberley weather in November.

May and December weather contrasts significantly in terms of temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F). Rainfall is minimal, with only about 9 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, and humidity is relatively high at 76%. In contrast, December experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F), reaching a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F). The month sees increased precipitation, totaling 75 mm (2.9 in) across 9 days, yet humidity drops to 52%. For a more detailed look at the conditions, check out Kimberley weather in December.

Compare Kimberley's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kimberley

In May, Kimberley's weather offers a refreshing shift from the warmer months, with temperatures showcasing a more moderate feel. The maximum temperature reaches a pleasant 29°C, while the average dips to a cool 14°C, providing a welcome contrast to the sweltering days of summer. Although the minimum can drop to a chilly -2°C, the overall climate remains relatively mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. With only 9 mm of precipitation over two days, May’s humidity at 76% adds to the crispness in the air, setting a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere. For more insights into the broader climate patterns in this region, check out Kimberley Climate.