Last updated: March 19, 2025
In May, Jaffna, Sri Lanka, experiences warm and humid weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F) and an average of 29°C (85°F). The month sees a minimum temperature of 27°C (80°F), making it an ideal time for those who enjoy tropical climates. However, be prepared for precipitation, as May records an average of 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days, contributing to a humidity level of 76%. This combination of warmth and moisture creates a lush atmosphere, perfect for experiencing the region's natural beauty.
In May, Jaffna, Sri Lanka, experiences a warm embrace with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 27°C (80°F) to a peak of 32°C (90°F). This month marks a noticeable upward trend compared to the earlier months of the year, with both the average temperature and maximum values continuing to climb. The average temperature settles at a comfortable 29°C (85°F), reflecting the intensifying heat as spring transitions into summer. With the warmth comes a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the local culture and scenic beauty, as Jaffna basks in the sun-drenched allure of early summer.
May marks a notable shift in Jaffna's climate, as precipitation begins to rise significantly with an average of 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 rainy days. This increase signals the onset of the monsoon season, setting the stage for the heavy rainfall that characterizes the later months. April's total of 29 mm (1.2 in) illustrates a clear transition as May's rainfall nearly doubles, hinting at the increasingly humid atmosphere to come. Following May, the region experiences even higher precipitation, peaking in November with a staggering 396 mm (15.6 in). The consistent accumulation from May through October demonstrates a distinct wet season, crucial for agriculture and replenishing local water sources.
In May, humidity in Jaffna, Sri Lanka rises to a notable 76%, mirroring the levels seen at the start of the year. This mid-year spike signals a transition into the more humid months ahead, as the region prepares for the sweltering summer. Following May, humidity levels surge dramatically; with June reaching 82% and July soaring to 83%. The most humid months emerge in late summer, peaking at 87% in August before gradually tapering off. The overall trend showcases a significant fluctuation, where humidity is relatively stable early in the year then escalates toward the middle of the year, creating a distinct contrast between the drier and more humid months that define Jaffna’s climate.
May in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, continues the trend of extreme UV exposure, boasting a UV Index of 13—a level that demands caution. With only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure leading to potential skin burns, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures. This month follows a pattern set by April’s peak UV Index of 15 while holding steady alongside the indices seen in February and July. As the days grow longer and sunnier, awareness of the effects of UV radiation becomes increasingly crucial. For more information on UV exposure and safety in this region, visit Jaffna UV Index.
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In May, Jaffna, Sri Lanka experiences a delightful continuation of its sunny season, boasting an impressive 346 hours of sunshine. This month mirrors the bright conditions of March and April, underscoring a trend of abundant sunlight that peaks as the region transitions to the warmer months. Following the string of sunny days, June slightly dips to 336 hours, yet remains a haven for sun-seekers. As the year progresses, sunshine hours gradually decrease, but May stands out as a vibrant reminder of Jaffna's radiant charm as it glimmers before the rainy season begins.
In Jaffna, Sri Lanka, the likelihood of sunny weather in May reflects a noticeable dip, with only a 26% chance of clear skies. This stands in stark contrast to the preceding months of April and March, which enjoy much higher probabilities of sunshine at 61% and 60% respectively. Following May, the trend continues with even lower chances in June and July, marking the onset of the monsoon season. Interestingly, while the weather remains largely unwelcoming through the summer months, sunshine returns during the latter part of the year, particularly with an increase in December to 51%. Therefore, May seems to be a transitional month where the promise of sun takes a backseat before the rainy season sets in.
In Jaffna, Sri Lanka, the daylight duration exhibits a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. January and February usher in a consistent 11 hours of daylight, setting a serene tone. As the months progress into March and April, the days gradually stretch to 12 hours, inviting more sunshine and opportunities for outdoor pursuits. This trend continues through the bulk of the year, with June to September sustaining the delightful 12-hour daylight, creating a balance of light and warmth. However, as October approaches, daylight begins to retreat once again, returning to 11 hours by the end of the year in November and December. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the climatic stability of the region but also reflects the natural transitions that characterize each season in Jaffna.
In Jaffna, Sri Lanka, the winds of May usher in a noticeable increase in speed, averaging 6.5 m/s (15 mph), making it one of the windiest months of the year. This uptick is part of a broader trend, as wind speeds generally rise from April's 4.9 m/s (11 mph), reflecting the transition towards the more vigorous winds of summer. Following May, the wind speed continues to escalate, peaking in June at 7.3 m/s (16 mph), before gradually tapering off in the subsequent months. This consistent rise not only enhances the coastal ambiance but also creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities, positioning May as a pivotal month in Jaffna's climatic calendar.
The weather in Jaffna 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 Jaffna and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather between May and January, May offers slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 29°C (85°F) compared to January's 26°C (79°F). The maximum temperatures in May reach up to 32°C (90°F), while January peaks at 29°C (84°F). However, January experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over just 8 days, compared to May's 56 mm (2.2 in) across 13 days. Both months share the same humidity level of 76%, making the air feel similarly humid. For more detailed information on January weather, visit Jaffna weather in January.
May generally experiences warmer temperatures compared to February, with averages reaching 29°C (85°F) and maximums soaring to 32°C (90°F), while February's average is slightly cooler at 26°C (80°F) with maximums of 30°C (86°F). Additionally, May is characterized by higher humidity levels at 76% and more frequent rainfall, with 56 mm (2.2 in) recorded over 13 days. In contrast, February is drier, receiving only 17 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over just 4 days, along with lower humidity at 69%. For more details, you can check Jaffna weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, we notice that May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures reaching 29°C (85°F) and maximums hitting 32°C (90°F), compared to March's temperatures that max out at 31°C (87°F) and average around 28°C (82°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days, while March sees only 18 mm (0.7 in) across 5 days. Moreover, May's humidity is higher at 76%, whereas March has a more comfortable 69% humidity level. For a detailed look at March weather, check out Jaffna weather in March.
In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, we see that both months have similar average temperatures, with May reaching a minimum of 27°C (80°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), while April's temperatures range from a minimum of 25°C (78°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F). However, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days, compared to April's 29 mm (1.2 in) across just 6 days. Additionally, humidity levels rise in May to 76%, compared to April's more comfortable 69%. For further details on April's weather characteristics, you can visit Jaffna weather in April.
In comparing the weather between May and June, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with average highs around 29°C (85°F). May tends to be slightly hotter, with maximum temperatures reaching 32°C (90°F), while June edges down to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation levels in May are notably higher at 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days, compared to June's 32 mm (1.3 in) spread over just 7 days. Additionally, June experiences a slight increase in humidity at 82%, compared to May's 76%. For more detailed insights, check out Jaffna weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with May slightly warmer at an average of 29°C (85°F) compared to July's average of 29°C (84°F). However, July tends to have a slightly lower minimum temperature of 26°C (79°F) and a maximum temperature of 31°C (89°F), compared to May's minimum of 27°C (80°F) and maximum of 32°C (90°F). Precipitation levels also rise in July, with 62 mm (2.4 in) of rainfall recorded over 13 days, compared to May's 56 mm (2.2 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, the humidity increases in July to 83%, higher than May's 76%. For more detailed information, you can check this link: Jaffna weather in July.
In May, the weather is slightly warmer with average temperatures peaking at 29°C (85°F) and reaching a maximum of 32°C (90°F). The month experiences 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 13 days, alongside a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler temperatures with an average of 28°C (84°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). However, it is notably wetter, with precipitation amounting to 65 mm (2.5 in) over the same number of days and increased humidity at 87%. For a detailed look at August’s weather, visit Jaffna weather in August.
May and September exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 27°C (80°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average of 29°C (85°F) and relatively lower rainfall of 56 mm (2.2 in) across 13 days. The humidity level stands at 76%. In contrast, September sees slightly cooler temperatures, with lows of 25°C (78°F) and highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F), averaging 28°C (83°F). However, it experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 100 mm (3.9 in) over 17 days, along with increased humidity at 86%. For more details on September weather, you can check Jaffna weather in September.
In May, the weather is typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 27°C (80°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F). The month sees around 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over about 13 days, resulting in a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, October experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with averages of 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), but it is significantly wetter, recording 220 mm (8.7 in) of rainfall over approximately 23 days. The humidity also rises to 86%, contributing to a more oppressive atmosphere. For further details, you can check Jaffna weather in October.
In comparing the weather between May and November, May tends to be warmer, with minimum temperatures around 27°C (80°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F). In contrast, November has slightly cooler temperatures, with an average range from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (85°F). However, November is significantly wetter, experiencing much higher precipitation at 396 mm (15.6 in) over 24 days compared to May’s 56 mm (2.2 in) across 13 days. Additionally, November's humidity is higher, averaging at 86% versus May’s 76%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check out Jaffna weather in November.
In comparing the weather of May and December, May generally features warmer temperatures, with lows around 27°C (80°F) and average highs reaching 32°C (90°F). In contrast, December presents slightly cooler conditions, with a minimum temperature of 24°C (76°F) and an average maximum of 29°C (84°F). However, December sees significantly more rainfall, accumulating 254 mm (10.0 in) over approximately 18 rainy days, compared to May's 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher, averaging 85% compared to May's 76%. For more detailed information, you can check Jaffna weather in December.
As May unfolds in Jaffna, the weather brings a distinct shift characterized by elevated temperatures and increased humidity, setting it apart from the preceding months. While the warmth remains inviting, with average highs reaching a lively 29°C, the onset of the wet season introduces a notable increase in precipitation, with rain gracing the area on about half the days of the month. This combination of heat and regular showers creates a lush landscape, ideal for nature lovers. For a deeper insight into how Jaffna's climate varies throughout the year, explore more on our Jaffna Climate page.