May Weather in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Last updated: March 19, 2025

May in Kandy, Sri Lanka is characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity, with daily highs averaging around 31°C (89°F) and lows dipping to a comfortable 18°C (65°F). The month sees considerable rainfall, with 194 mm (7.6 in) of precipitation spread across 25 days, making it one of the wetter periods of the year. Humidity levels hover at 79%, contributing to a lush, vibrant landscape that epitomizes this enchanting region. Visitors can expect a mix of tropical warmth and refreshing showers, ideal for exploring Kandy's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

May Temperature in Kandy

In Kandy, Sri Lanka, the month of May presents a delightful transition into the warmer season, marked by a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). The days can reach up to 31°C (89°F), offering a comfortable heat perfect for exploration and outdoor activities. Interestingly, as the year progresses, temperatures showcase a trend of gradual increase, with May sitting comfortably in the midst of the rising warmth established in the previous months. This pattern not only sets the stage for lush landscapes but also encourages visitors to enjoy the vibrant cultural offerings that Kandy has to provide in this pleasantly warm climate.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kandy, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec707173757575757473737271
Data source: Temperature data for Kandy generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Kandy

May in Kandy, Sri Lanka is characterized by significant rainfall, marking it as one of the wettest months of the year. With a remarkable 194 mm (7.6 in) of precipitation falling over 25 days, May experiences the highest number of rainy days compared to other months. This heavy rainfall peaks following the relatively dry months of January through April, which gradually increase in precipitation but remain below 140 mm. The transition into May sets the stage for the impending wet season, as precipitation amounts subsequently diminish in June and July, contrasting sharply with the downpours of previous months. Thus, May serves as a crucial turning point in Kandy's climate, indicating a lush, vibrant landscape awakening under the monsoon's embrace.

May Precipitation Trends in Kandy

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kandy, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9790981381946595106151298342162
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Kandy

In Kandy, Sri Lanka, the month of May typically ushers in a resurgence of humidity, with levels averaging around 79%. Following a gradual decline from January's 80%, humidity stabilizes in the preceding months at 69% in both March and April, making May a notable transition point. As the region approaches the rainy season, humidity levels escalate sharply, peaking in June at 85% and remaining elevated throughout the following months. Notably, there is a consistent pattern of increasing humidity as the year progresses, culminating in October's high of 89%. This trend highlights Kandy's tropical nature, where the arrival of May signals a shift toward the lush and vibrant ambiance characteristic of the monsoon climate.

May Average Humidity in Kandy

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kandy, with May's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how May's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%72%69%69%79%85%81%85%81%89%88%87%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kandy

In May, Kandy experiences a consistent UV Index of 15, marking it as an extreme exposure category with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend reflects the high levels of UV radiation prevalent during this month, similar to the tail end of April. The intensity of the UV Index reaches its peak in March with a score of 16, where caution is strongly advised. Following May, the UV Index slightly decreases in June, yet it remains at a notable 13. Overall, the data indicates that spring months in Kandy necessitate careful sun protection strategies. For more insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Kandy UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kandy for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kandy 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec131416151513131415131211
Data source: Kandy 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 Kandy

In May, Kandy, Sri Lanka continues to bask in ample sunlight, with an impressive 316 hours of sunshine gracing the month. As the heart of spring transitions into early summer, daylight remains abundant, following a vibrant peak in March and April when sunlight reached 331 and 328 hours respectively. Although the sun starts to retreat slightly in June, which boasts 334 hours, May serves as a delightful bridge of radiant blue skies and warm afternoons. This trend of generous sunshine not only enhances Kandy’s lush landscapes but also invites both locals and travelers to indulge in outdoor adventures and cultural explorations in this stunning hill city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kandy: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kandy 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec259h304h331h328h316h334h336h335h309h293h265h299h
Data source: Kandy May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kandy During May

In Kandy, Sri Lanka, the likelihood of sunny weather in May takes a noticeable dip, with a mere 16% chance of sun. This drop follows a steady increase in sunlight exposure from January's 14% to April's peak of 42%. However, as May rolls in, the trend suggests a shift towards less favorable weather, contrasting sharply with the brightness of earlier months. Following May, sunshine chances linger around 22% in June, hinting at a gradual recovery, but the overall pattern indicates that if you're seeking sunshine in Kandy during May, you may need to plan your activities around the possibility of clouds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kandy

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kandy 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 Kandy experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14%34%34%42%16%22%17%8%19%14%13%38%
Data source: Kandy May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kandy in May

In Kandy, Sri Lanka, daylight duration showcases a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. From January to February, the days are consistent with 11 hours of sunlight, providing a gentle start to the year. As spring approaches in March and April, daylight increases to 12 hours, inviting longer and brighter days that herald the onset of the warmer months. This 12-hour daylight pattern continues through May to September, offering ample opportunity to enjoy the lush beauty of Kandy's landscapes. However, as the year draws to a close, daylight begins to wane again, retreating to 11 hours in October, and persisting through November and December. This cyclical dance reflects the enchanting balance of nature in Kandy, highlighting the region's tropical allure.

Average Daylight Hours in Kandy for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kandy throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 44m11h 52m12h 4m12h 16m12h 26m12h 31m12h 28m12h 20m12h 8m11h 56m11h 46m11h 41m
Data source: Kandy daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kandy

In May, Kandy, Sri Lanka, experiences a noticeable uptick in wind activity, with an average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph). This increase marks a shift from the calmer conditions seen in the earlier months, particularly April, which languishes at just 1.2 m/s (3 mph). As the month progresses, the winds continue to strengthen, paving the way for the breezier days of June and July, when average speeds rise to 2.7 m/s (6 mph) and 3.2 m/s (7 mph), respectively. Thus, May serves as a pivotal transition, where the gentle whispers of earlier months give way to a refreshing breeze that invigorates this picturesque locale.

Average May Wind Speed in Kandy

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kandy, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.51.71.61.22.2 m/s2.73.22.82.61.91.71.7
Data source: Kandy May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kandy Compares to Other Months

The weather in Kandy changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Kandy and find detailed weather information for every month.

May weather is characterized by warmer temperatures, with an average of 24°C (75°F) and highs reaching up to 31°C (89°F), compared to January, which has a cooler average of 21°C (70°F) and a maximum temperature of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in May, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 25 days, compared to January's 97 mm (3.8 in) over just 12 days. Both months feature relatively high humidity levels, with May at 79% and January slightly higher at 80%. For more specific details, you can check Kandy weather in January.

Comparing the weather in May and February reveals some distinct differences. May experiences warmer temperatures, with an average of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum reaching up to 31°C (89°F), while February tends to be cooler, averaging 21°C (71°F) with a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Additionally, May is notably wetter, with 194 mm (7.6 in) of precipitation over 25 days, compared to February's 90 mm (3.5 in) over just 14 days. Humidity levels are also higher in May at 79%, compared to February's 72%. For more detailed information on February weather, check out Kandy weather in February.

May weather tends to be warmer and more humid compared to March, with average temperatures reaching 24°C (75°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (89°F). In contrast, March presents slightly cooler conditions with an average of 23°C (73°F), while also experiencing lower humidity at 69%. Another significant difference lies in the precipitation levels; May sees considerably more rain, with 194 mm (7.6 in) spread over 25 days, whereas March has only 98 mm (3.9 in) across 14 days. For more detailed insights, you can check Kandy weather in March.

When comparing the weather in May to that of April, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, around 24°C (75°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer with a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) compared to April's 17°C (62°F), although April reaches a maximum of 32°C (90°F), which is notably higher than May's maximum of 31°C (89°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; May experiences considerably more rainfall with 194 mm (7.6 in) over 25 days, while April has 138 mm (5.4 in) over just 15 days. The humidity in May is higher at 79%, compared to April's 69%, contributing to a more humid atmosphere in the later month. For a detailed overview, you can check Kandy weather in April.

In May, the weather features a range of temperatures from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F). This month typically experiences significant rainfall, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over approximately 25 days, resulting in a humidity level of 79%.

In contrast, June maintains a similar temperature profile, with minimums at 18°C (65°F) and maximums around 31°C (87°F), while the average remains at 24°C (75°F). However, June sees a notable decrease in precipitation, measuring just 65 mm (2.6 in) spread over 17 days, and a slight increase in humidity to 85%.

For more detailed information, you can check out Kandy weather in June.

In comparing the weather conditions of May and July, both months exhibit similar average and maximum temperatures, hovering around 24°C (75°F) and reaching up to 31°C (89°F) respectively. However, May experiences significantly higher precipitation, with 194 mm (7.6 in) of rain over 25 days, compared to July's 95 mm (3.8 in) over just 19 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high throughout both months, with May at 79% and July slightly higher at 81%. For more specific details about July weather, you can explore Kandy weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather characteristics, with May typically being hotter and more humid. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F), while August sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a range of 19°C (66°F) to 30°C (86°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation in May is significantly higher, with 194 mm (7.6 in) recorded over 25 days, compared to August's 106 mm (4.2 in) over 21 days. Humidity levels are also elevated in August at 85%, while May has a humidity level of 79%. For more detailed information, you can visit Kandy weather in August.

May and September both exhibit a warm climate, but they showcase some distinct differences. In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F). This month sees higher precipitation, with 194 mm (7.6 in) of rainfall spread over 25 days and an average humidity of 79%. In contrast, September remains pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 29°C (85°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F). There is also a decrease in rainfall, totaling 151 mm (5.9 in) over 22 days, along with slightly higher humidity at 81%. For more detailed weather information, you can visit Kandy weather in September.

May and October present distinct weather patterns, making each month unique in its own right. In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 25 days, and an average humidity of 79%. In contrast, October sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (64°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). However, it is wetter, accumulating 298 mm (11.7 in) of rainfall over the same number of days, accompanied by a higher humidity of 89%. For more specific insights into the October weather, you can explore Kandy weather in October.

May and November present distinct weather patterns, each with its own charm. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average temperature of 24°C (75°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 25 days, while humidity sits at 79%. In contrast, November sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). However, it is notably wetter, accumulating 342 mm (13.4 in) of rainfall over the same number of days, and humidity rises to 88%. For more specific insights on weather conditions in November, you can check the details here: Kandy weather in November.

In May, the weather tends to be warmer and more humid compared to December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). This month also experiences more rainfall, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) over 25 days, contributing to a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, December is slightly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). Rainfall in December is somewhat less, totaling 162 mm (6.4 in) over 21 days, though the humidity is higher at 86%. For more details on December weather, check out Kandy weather in December.

Compare Kandy's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kandy

In May, Kandy experiences a distinct shift in weather patterns compared to other months, with higher humidity levels contributing to a lush and vibrant atmosphere. As temperatures rise to a pleasant maximum of 31°C while averaging a comfortable 24°C, the city enjoys a warm yet inviting climate. However, this warmth comes with increased precipitation, with rain gracing the region on nearly 25 days, resulting in a total of 194 mm of rainfall. The combination of warmth and moisture creates a tropical charm, making May an enchanting yet wetter time to visit. For more detailed insights into Kandy's weather, visit Kandy Climate.