Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Swellendam, South Africa offers a delightful transition into the cooler months, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and averaging a comfortable 15°C (60°F). As the season shifts, the nights can be quite chilly, dipping to a minimum of 3°C (38°F). Rainfall is modest, with a total precipitation of 29 mm (1.2 in) spread across 4 days, contributing to a humidity level of 78% that enriches the local landscape. Visitors can anticipate a mix of warm days and cooler evenings, making May an enchanting time to explore this charming town.
In May, Swellendam experiences a noticeable drop in temperatures as the region transitions into winter. The minimum temperature dips to around 3°C (38°F), while the average settles at a crisp 15°C (60°F) and the maximum reaches 33°C (91°F). This month marks a significant contrast from the sweltering summer months, showcasing a gradual decline from April's warmer days. As the season changes, the cooler evenings become more prevalent, leading to a cozy atmosphere ideal for enjoying local cuisine and the beautiful landscapes that Swellendam has to offer. Overall, May serves as a gentle reminder of the impending chill, while still accommodating pleasant daytime temperatures perfect for exploration.
In May, Swellendam experiences a delightful transition from the drier months, with precipitation reaching 29 mm (1.2 in) over just four days of rain. This moderate rainfall marks an increase from the preceding months, such as April's scant 17 mm, suggesting a gentle shift towards winter's wetter conditions. Compared to the early months of the year, which saw consistently lower precipitation, May's figures indicate a move towards more substantial moisture as the region prepares for the upcoming winter. As the flowers bloom and the landscape rejuvenates, this rainfall adds a refreshing touch to Swellendam's charm, creating an inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike.
In May, Swellendam experiences a slight dip in humidity, averaging at 78%, which is a bit lower than the preceding months. This month marks the shift from the wetter summer season as April holds steady at 82% humidity. Following May, the humidity continues to decrease, reaching its lowest point in August at 76%. Interestingly, throughout the year, humidity levels remain relatively high, peaking at 83% in March, but May provides a refreshing respite as the region transitions into cooler months. As such, May stands out as a comfortable prelude to the winter season in this charming South African town.
In May, Swellendam, South Africa, experiences a notable shift in UV levels, with the UV Index dropping to 5, which falls within the moderate exposure category. This marks a significant decrease from the intense indexes observed in the earlier months, where values soared up to 14 in January. As a result, residents and visitors can enjoy a more leisurely outdoor experience, with a burn time of 30 minutes, doubling that of April's very high UV levels. This trend indicates a gradual easing into the cool season, making May an ideal time to relish the natural beauty of Swellendam while still being mindful of sun protection. For detailed UV data, visit Swellendam UV Index.
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May in Swellendam, South Africa, experiences a delightful transition as the sun starts to shy away from the longer days of summer. With 292 hours of sunshine, May shows a dip from the sun-drenched January peak of 321 hours. This trend marks the beginning of a gradual decline that continues into the winter months, reaching a low of 276 hours in June. However, the brightness returns by mid-year, as July sees an increase to 293 hours. As autumn settles in, May offers a beautiful blend of mild weather and ample sunlight, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the serene landscapes of this charming town before the cooler months set in.
In Swellendam, South Africa, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at a moderate 57%, reflecting a slight improvement from the preceding months of April, which saw only 48% sunshine. This trend indicates a gradual increase in sunny days as the region transitions from the wetter autumn months. Interestingly, May’s sunshine probability is part of a broader pattern; from January to July, there’s a noticeable fluctuation in sunshine chances, with the peak often found in the winter months of June and July, both boasting 66% sunny days. As May approaches, the region benefits from a welcome uptick in sunny conditions, making it an appealing choice for outdoor activities before the chill of winter fully sets in.
As the year progresses in Swellendam, South Africa, daylight duration experiences a noticeable ebb and flow. January welcomes the year with a generous 14 hours of sunlight, gradually tapering down to 10 hours by May. This month serves as a transition into winter, where daylight continues to diminish, reaching its lowest at 9 hours in June. However, the cyclical nature of daylight returns as July brings back a steady 10 hours, followed by a slight increase in the following months. By the end of the year, as spring approaches, daylight rebounds to 12 hours in October, ultimately culminating back at 14 hours in December. This rhythmic pattern of daylight highlights the seasonal shifts in Swellendam, painting a vibrant picture of the region's changing light and its accompanying seasonal charm.
In May, Swellendam experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), a continuation of the calm patterns established in April. This month, like its predecessor, shows a slight dip in wind strength, reflecting a seasonal transition as winter approaches. Throughout the earlier months of the year, average wind speeds peaked in January at 3.3 m/s (7 mph) and maintained a moderate flow until April. As spring gives way to cooler temperatures, the wind remains relatively stable, with similar speeds in June and August, suggesting a harmonious blend of stillness and movement that characterizes the late autumn in Swellendam. Overall, May marks a time for tranquil outdoor enjoyment amidst gentle winds, perfect for appreciating the natural beauty of this charming region.
Weather in Swellendam varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Swellendam, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, a notable difference in temperature is evident. May experiences a range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 15°C (60°F), peaking at 33°C (91°F), while January is considerably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to an average of 22°C (72°F), reaching up to a maximum of 41°C (107°F). In terms of precipitation, January sees slightly more rain at 35 mm (1.4 in) across 6 days compared to May's 29 mm (1.2 in) over just 4 days. Humidity levels are fairly consistent, with May at 78% and January at 79%. For a more detailed look at the January weather patterns, visit Swellendam weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May to February, there are notable differences in both temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 15°C (60°F) and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, February enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and soaring to a maximum of 40°C (104°F). Additionally, February experiences slightly less precipitation, with 22 mm (0.9 in) over 6 days, compared to May's 29 mm (1.2 in) over 4 days. For a more detailed look at February's weather specifics, check out Swellendam weather in February.
In comparing the weather in May and March, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May features a cooler temperature range, with minimums around 3°C (38°F), averages at 15°C (60°F), and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F). In contrast, March starts warmer, with minimums at 8°C (47°F), averages of 20°C (69°F), and maximums soaring to 36°C (98°F). March also experiences higher precipitation, totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) over 7 days, compared to May's 29 mm (1.2 in) over just 4 days. Humidity is slightly higher in March at 83% versus 78% in May. For a more detailed look at the weather in March, you can visit Swellendam weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, May tends to be cooler overall, with a minimum temperature of 3°C (38°F) compared to April's 6°C (43°F). While the average temperature in April is slightly higher at 17°C (64°F) than May's 15°C (60°F), both months experience a notable maximum of 33°C (91°F) in May and an impressive 38°C (101°F) in April. Precipitation is somewhat more frequent in May, with 29 mm (1.2 in) over 4 days, whereas April sees less rain at 17 mm (0.7 in) across the same number of days. Both months maintain high humidity levels, with April at 82% and May at 78%. For a more detailed look at April weather patterns, you can check out Swellendam weather in April.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a warm maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (60°F). The month experiences about 29 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over 4 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, June brings cooler weather, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and peaking at 29°C (85°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). June has slightly lower precipitation at 23 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days and a humidity level of 77%. For a detailed look at the weather in June, check out Swellendam weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, May boasts a wider temperature range, with minimums reaching 3°C (38°F) and maximums peaking at 33°C (91°F), while July sees slightly cooler averages with minimum temperatures dipping to 0°C (32°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (88°F). Both months experience similar humidity levels at 78%, but May typically has a more pleasant average temperature of 15°C (60°F) compared to July's lower average of 12°C (54°F). Additionally, July experiences slightly more precipitation at 32 mm (1.3 in) over 6 days, compared to May's 29 mm (1.2 in) across 4 days. For further details, check out Swellendam weather in July.
In May, the weather showcases a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F), resulting in an average of 15°C (60°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 29 mm (1.2 in) over about 4 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 78%. In contrast, August presents cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), while the maximum temperature stays close to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation in August is slightly higher at 36 mm (1.4 in) over 6 days, and the humidity level is marginally lower at 76%. For a more detailed look at the August climate, you can visit Swellendam weather in August.
May and September offer similar temperature averages, with both months showing a minimum around 2-3°C and an average of approximately 15°C. However, September tends to have slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 37°C compared to May's maximum of 33°C. Precipitation levels are comparable as well, with May receiving 29 mm over 4 days and September slightly less at 28 mm over 5 days. Humidity is also quite close, with May at 78% and September just a notch lower at 77%. For more detailed insights on September's weather, check out Swellendam weather in September.
May and October exhibit distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from late spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a warm average of 15°C (60°F), with highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation of 29 mm (1.2 in) over about 4 days, accompanied by high humidity at 78%. Conversely, October offers a slightly warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at a maximum of 39°C (102°F). Rainfall increases marginally to 30 mm (1.2 in), distributed over a longer stretch of 7 days, and humidity remains similar at 79%. For a deeper dive into the specifics of October weather, check out Swellendam weather in October.
May and November showcase distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 15°C (60°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, with only 29 mm (1.2 in) falling over about 4 days, while humidity remains high at 78%. In contrast, November presents a warmer profile, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 18°C (66°F), and a striking maximum of 38°C (101°F). Precipitation increases to 45 mm (1.8 in) over approximately 6 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 77%. For a more detailed look at November weather, visit Swellendam weather in November.
May and December exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 33°C (91°F) during the day, averaging around 15°C (60°F). The month sees around 29 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over 4 days, with humidity levels at 78%. In contrast, December experiences milder temperatures, with minimums of 9°C (49°F) and maximums soaring to 40°C (105°F), averaging 20°C (69°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 25 mm (1.0 in) across 6 days, while humidity remains similar at 79%. For more information about December's weather, you can visit Swellendam weather in December.
As May unfolds in Swellendam, the weather takes on a unique character compared to the earlier months of the year. The maximum temperatures begin to dip, providing a pleasant relief from the summer heat, while the average lows can feel quite brisk, especially in the mornings and evenings. Notably, precipitation increases, albeit mildly, with a few rainy days that enrich the landscape and contribute to the lush surroundings. Humidity levels remain high, creating a cozy atmosphere as nature transitions toward winter. This blend of cool days and refreshing rains highlights the charm of May, making it a distinctive time to experience the beauty of Swellendam. For more insights, visit Swellendam Climate.