May Weather in Bloemfontein, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

May in Bloemfontein, South Africa, offers a mild climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). Visitors can expect cooler evenings with minimum temperatures dropping to -3°C (26°F). Rainfall is modest, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation recorded over 2 days, contributing to the 84% humidity that envelops the city. This transitional month is ideal for outdoor explorations, as the crisp air and pleasant temperatures create an inviting atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.

May Temperature in Bloemfontein

In Bloemfontein, South Africa, May marks a distinct shift as temperatures drop, revealing the transition from the warmth of summer to the cool embrace of winter. With minimums reaching -3°C (26°F) and averages settling around 13°C (55°F), the coolness in the air is palpable; it's a stark contrast to the preceding months. The maximum temperature can still reach a comfortable 26°C (79°F), but it's clear that the warmer days are becoming fewer as winter approaches. As the landscape shifts, the refreshing chill invites cozy layers and tranquil evenings, making May a month where the beauty of the changing season is truly felt.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Bloemfontein, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Bloemfontein, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec747269625549485362677173
Data source: Temperature data for Bloemfontein 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 Bloemfontein

May marks a notable shift in Bloemfontein's precipitation patterns, with rainfall dropping to just 12 mm (0.5 in) across a mere two days. This significant decrease follows a series of wetter months earlier in the year, particularly February, which recorded 102 mm (4.0 in). As autumn deepens, May’s scant rainfall foreshadows the arid conditions that characterize the coming winter months, where precipitation plummets even further. This trend reflects Bloemfontein's transition into a drier season, highlighting the stark contrast between the region's lush summer rains and the harsh winter drought ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Bloemfontein

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bloemfontein, 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 Bloemfontein, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9310271731234138395397
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Bloemfontein

May in Bloemfontein, South Africa, marks a noticeable shift in humidity, reaching 84%. This increase follows a steady upward trend throughout the preceding months, where humidity gradually rose from 75% in January to 83% in April. The peak in May suggests that the transition into winter is accompanied by a significant retention of moisture in the air. As the humid conditions begin to recede into June, which sees a drop to 79%, it becomes clear that May serves as a transitional month, combining the lingering warmth of autumn with an increase in atmospheric moisture, setting the stage for the drier winter months ahead.

May Average Humidity in Bloemfontein

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bloemfontein, 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 Bloemfontein is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec75%74%79%83%84%80%69%60%63%61%67%75%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Bloemfontein

In May, Bloemfontein experiences a notable decrease in the UV Index, dropping to 7, which falls into the high exposure category. This shift means that while sun protection is still necessary, residents and visitors can enjoy a longer burn time of approximately 25 minutes without risk. This trend indicates a gradual easing of the extreme sun conditions that characterize the summer months, providing a welcome respite as the cooler months approach. As you plan your outdoor activities, remember to check the UV Index to stay protected. For more insights and timely updates, visit Bloemfontein UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bloemfontein for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bloemfontein 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 Bloemfontein typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15151310755811121416
Data source: Bloemfontein 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 Bloemfontein

In Bloemfontein, South Africa, May ushers in a delightful continuation of the sunny trend established in the earlier months of the year. With 318 hours of sunshine, it stands out as a pivotal month nestled between the brighter days of April and the cooler June. While January kicks off the year with a bright 312 hours, the sunshine steadily climbs to a peak in November with 382 hours, showcasing a consistent increase as the seasons transition. Notably, May holds its own right in the middle, reflecting the region's embrace of abundant sunlight. This month serves as a bridge, where the fading warmth of autumn leads into the cool embrace of winter, creating a perfect backdrop for the picturesque landscapes of Bloemfontein.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bloemfontein: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bloemfontein 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec312h334h359h317h318h297h313h329h340h374h382h399h
Data source: Bloemfontein May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bloemfontein During May

As spring unfolds in Bloemfontein, May emerges as a particularly bright month, boasting an impressive 82% chance of sunny weather. This trend of increasing sunshine is evident as the months progress; from a modest 41% in January, we see a steady ascent through the seasons, reaching April's 77%. Surprisingly, May stands just one percentage point below June's peak of 83%, indicating a delightful transition into winter while still enjoying abundant sunlight. With May's clear days becoming more prevalent, residents and visitors alike can look forward to enjoying the warmth and vibrancy that this month has to offer.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Bloemfontein

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bloemfontein 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 Bloemfontein experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec41%60%70%77%82%83%93%83%81%72%71%51%
Data source: Bloemfontein May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bloemfontein in May

In Bloemfontein, South Africa, daylight duration exhibits a distinct seasonal rhythm that reflects the region’s changing climate. Starting the year strong, January and February bask in approximately 13 hours of sunlight, gradually tapering off to 11 hours by April. As we enter May, daylight declines further to 10 hours, marking the onset of the winter months. This trend continues through June and July, where the sun lingers for the same duration before hinting at longer days again in August. The daylight duration gradually climbs back to 11 hours in late winter, ultimately reaching 13 hours once more by November and December. This cyclical pattern of light beautifully captures the transition from the vibrant summer to the more subdued winter days, offering a unique perspective on Bloemfontein’s natural rhythm throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Bloemfontein for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bloemfontein throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 45m13h 4m12h 13m11h 21m10h 38m10h 17m10h 28m11h 5m11h 55m12h 47m13h 33m13h 57m
Data source: Bloemfontein daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Bloemfontein

In May, Bloemfontein experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), maintaining a stable pattern seen throughout the earlier months of the year. This slight uptick from April reflects the transitional nature of the season, as the winds begin to pick up slightly towards winter. Notably, the wind speeds in Bloemfontein tend to increase as the year progresses, culminating in stronger gusts by June and July, where speeds reach 3.1 m/s (7 mph) and 2.9 m/s (7 mph), respectively. This gradual increase not only highlights the region’s shifting climatic conditions but also creates a vibrant atmosphere as the cooler months approach, making May a delightful prelude to the brisk winter winds that lie ahead.

Average May Wind Speed in Bloemfontein

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bloemfontein, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.62.92.92.52.6 m/s3.12.93.43.93.73.73.4
Data source: Bloemfontein May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Bloemfontein Compares to Other Months

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

May and January exhibit contrasting weather patterns, with May enjoying milder temperatures and lower humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), accompanied by only 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just two days and a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, January features significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F). This month also sees higher rainfall, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over ten days, though the humidity is relatively lower at 75%. For more details about January weather, check Bloemfontein weather in January.

In comparing the weather conditions of May and February, a distinct contrast emerges. May experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of -3°C (26°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Additionally, it has lower precipitation levels, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) occurring over just 2 days, coupled with relatively high humidity at 84%. In contrast, February is significantly warmer, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F), an average of 22°C (73°F), and a maximum reaching 34°C (94°F). This month also sees a much higher rainfall of 102 mm (4.0 in) spread over 12 days, while maintaining a lower humidity level of 74%. For a more detailed insight into February's weather, you can explore Bloemfontein weather in February.

When comparing the weather between May and March, significant differences emerge. March boasts a much warmer average temperature of 21°C (69°F), with a maximum reaching up to 34°C (94°F), while May presents a cooler average of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Additionally, March experiences far more precipitation, with 71 mm (2.8 in) over 8 days compared to only 12 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days in May. Humidity levels are relatively close, with March at 79% and May slightly higher at 84%. For more detailed information on March weather in Bloemfontein, check out this link: Bloemfontein weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. April experiences a wider temperature range, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and a maximum reaching up to 33°C (92°F), resulting in an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). Conversely, May presents cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Additionally, April is considerably wetter, with 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 9 days, while May sees only 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain on just 2 days. Both months maintain similar humidity levels, hovering around 84% in May and 83% in April. For a more detailed look at April's weather, check out Bloemfontein weather in April.

When comparing the weather of May and June, May presents a more temperate climate with average temperatures reaching 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), while June experiences a slight drop in average temperatures to 10°C (49°F), with a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Interestingly, May has a minimum temperature of -3°C (26°F), compared to June's cooler minimum of -7°C (20°F). Additionally, May sees higher precipitation levels at 12 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, while June enjoys drier conditions with only 3 mm (0.1 in) and no days of rain, leading to lower humidity at 79% in June compared to 84% in May. For more details on the June weather conditions, you can visit Bloemfontein weather in June.

In comparing the weather between May and July, we see notable differences in temperature and humidity. May experiences a wider range of temperatures with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F), while July has a slightly lower range, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). The precipitation in May is also significantly higher at 12 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, compared to July's minimal 4 mm (0.1 in) with no recorded precipitation days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 84%, whereas July is more comfortable at 69%. For more detailed information, check out Bloemfontein weather in July.

In May, the weather is generally mild with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F). This month experiences relatively high humidity at 84% and light precipitation over 2 days, totaling 12 mm (0.5 in). In contrast, August sees slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping lower, featuring a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while the average temperature hovers around 12°C (54°F). Interestingly, August has less humidity, at 60%, and minimal precipitation occurring on just 1 day, amounting to 13 mm (0.5 in). For more detailed weather information, you can check Bloemfontein weather in August.

May and September present distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures typically range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) at night to a comfortable 26°C (79°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just two days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 84%. In contrast, September tends to be warmer with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and peaking at a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging 17°C (62°F). Precipitation is slightly less at 8 mm (0.3 in), also occurring over two days, but with a lower humidity of 63%. For more detailed information, you can check Bloemfontein weather in September.

Comparing the weather in May and October reveals distinct seasonal differences. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is minimal, with just 12 mm (0.5 in) falling over two days, coupled with a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, October experiences warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a sweltering maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). The month sees increased rainfall, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in) over four days, and a decrease in humidity to 61%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Bloemfontein weather in October.

When comparing the weather in May and November, distinct differences emerge. May experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), while November sees a warmer average of 21°C (71°F) and can reach highs of up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation also varies significantly, with May receiving only 12 mm (0.5 in) over two days, compared to November's 53 mm (2.1 in) spread over seven days. Additionally, humidity levels tend to be higher in May at 84%, while November remains relatively drier at 67%. For more specific insights about Bloemfontein's climate, you can visit Bloemfontein weather in November.

May and December exhibit distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition between seasons. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F), with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) falling over just 2 days, and a high humidity of 84%. In contrast, December experiences much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a mild minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a sweltering maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). However, it also brings considerably more rain, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) across 11 days, while humidity drops to 75%. For more detailed information on the weather in December, check out Bloemfontein weather in December.

Compare Bloemfontein's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Bloemfontein

As May unfolds in Bloemfontein, the weather takes on a distinctive character that sets it apart from the preceding months. With moderate temperatures, averaging around 13°C, the cool air becomes a welcome transition from the warmer months, complemented by a higher humidity level of 84%. The relatively low precipitation—only about 12 mm over just two days—ensures that outdoor activities remain pleasant. While the days may still reach a comfortable 26°C, the nights can dip chillingly cold to -3°C, inviting cozy evenings. This blend of warmth and briskness makes May a uniquely appealing month in the heart of South Africa. For a deeper understanding of the city's overall weather patterns, explore Bloemfontein Climate.