Last updated: March 19, 2025
In May, Matara, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical atmosphere characterized by warm temperatures, averaging 27°C (82°F), with daily maxima reaching up to 32°C (90°F) and night-time lows of 24°C (75°F). This period is marked by significant precipitation, accumulating 252 mm (9.9 in) over 29 days, resulting in a lush and vibrant landscape. Coupled with a high humidity level of 76%, May presents an unmistakable tropical ambiance, making it a unique experience for visitors and locals alike.
In May, Matara, Sri Lanka, experiences a subtle yet delightful shift in temperatures as the month progresses. With a minimum temperature of 24°C (75°F), the nights start to warm slightly, setting a comfortable tone for evening activities. The average temperature hovers around 27°C (82°F), maintaining the familiar tropical warmth, while the maximum peaks at 32°C (90°F). This trend reflects a pattern of warm days and balmy evenings, making May a pleasant time to explore the coastal beauty of Matara. As the transition into the monsoon begins, you can expect occasional rain, but overall, the tropical charm remains undiminished, ensuring a vibrant experience for visitors.
May in Matara, Sri Lanka, marks a significant shift in the region's climate, as it experiences its peak precipitation of 252 mm (9.9 in) over an impressive 29 days. This surge in rainfall plays a crucial role in nurturing the lush landscapes, setting the stage for the vibrant vegetation that characterizes the area. Following the steadily increasing rainfall from January's modest 85 mm to April's 172 mm, May represents a dramatic escalation, reflecting the onset of the monsoon season. The heavy downpours not only surpass those of the previous months but also contribute to the overall trend of heightened precipitation, with subsequent months like June and October continuing to witness substantial rainfall. As Matara transitions into the heart of its wet season, residents and nature alike prepare for the transformative impact of May's deluge.
In Matara, Sri Lanka, May ushers in a slight decline in humidity, maintaining an average of 76%, just below the consistent 77% seen in the preceding months. This gentle dip is accompanied by a transitional shift as the region prepares for the wetter conditions of the upcoming monsoon season. While the humidity levels remain relatively stable compared to January's peak at 80%, the trend shows a gradual increase in the preceding months, hinting at the intense atmosphere characteristic of tropical climates. As June approaches, humidity spikes back up to 83%, underscoring the variance that defines this vibrant coastal town through the year.
In May, Matara experiences a UV Index of 14, keeping it within the extreme exposure category and sustaining a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV Index values starts from January, peaks in March and April at 15, and remains notably elevated as it transitions into the subsequent months. With such intense solar radiation, both locals and visitors should take proactive measures to protect their skin, especially when venturing outdoors. As the heat of early summer sets in, it's crucial to stay informed about UV levels throughout the year. For more detailed information, check out the Matara UV Index for guidance on safe sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
May in Matara, Sri Lanka is a delightful month, boasting 329 hours of sunshine that perfectly complements the vibrant atmosphere of the island. This sunny offering is just a notch below the peak of 339 hours in July, showcasing the region's consistent radiance as it transitions into the summer months. With a steady flow of sun from January's 273 hours to a high in March at 334 hours, May lands comfortably in the middle, maintaining an inviting climate that entices both locals and visitors alike. As the year progresses towards June's similar tally of 333 hours, the month of May shines as a gentle reminder of the spectacular sun-drenched days that define Matara’s charm.
In Matara, Sri Lanka, the likelihood of sunny weather experiences notable fluctuations throughout the year. As spring transitions into summer, the chance of sun peaks in April at 44%, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. However, May marks a sharp decline, with only 16% likelihood of sunny days, signaling the onset of the monsoon season. This trend continues into the summer months, where the chances dwindle further to 15% in July and a mere 8% in August. As the year progresses towards the end, the chance of sunshine gradually revives, highlighting the dynamic climate pattern that defines Matara.
In Matara, Sri Lanka, the daylight duration exhibits an intriguing pattern throughout the year, closely aligned with the rhythm of the seasons. Starting the year with a consistent 11 hours of daylight in January and February, the days gradually lengthen as spring approaches, peaking at 12 hours from March through August. This extended daylight persists, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. As the year transitions towards the end, daylight begins to wane once again, returning to 11 hours in October and continuing through December. This cyclical trend underscores Matara's balanced tropical climate, where daylight remains a consistent companion, enriching both daily life and the vibrant natural beauty of the region.
In May, the coastal winds in Matara, Sri Lanka, begin to pick up, with an average speed of 4.1 m/s (9 mph), marking a notable increase from the previous months. This uptick foreshadows a transition into the milder breezes of June and July, where wind speeds further escalate to reach 5.3 m/s (12 mph) and 5.8 m/s (13 mph), respectively. The consistent rise in wind velocity not only enhances the region's vibrant atmosphere but also encourages a variety of water sports, making it an ideal time for adventure seekers. As the summer progresses, the winds settle into a more moderate pace come August, and retain this level well into September. Overall, May serves as the gateway to the lively breezy months of Matara, perfectly blending warmth and fresh coastal air.
The weather in Matara 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 Matara and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present distinct weather patterns in Matara. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average of 27°C (82°F). This month is characterized by significant rainfall, totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) over 29 days, and a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, January experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging 26°C (80°F). Precipitation in January is considerably less, amounting to 85 mm (3.3 in) over just 12 days, alongside a marginally higher humidity of 80%. For more details, check out Matara weather in January.
May and February exhibit some notable differences in weather patterns. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average temperature of 27°C (82°F). This month sees significant rainfall, with 252 mm (9.9 in) of precipitation across 29 days, resulting in a humid atmosphere with a humidity level of 76%.
In contrast, February has slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (71°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), while the average remains the same at 27°C (81°F). February experiences much less rainfall, totaling only 77 mm (3.0 in) over just 13 days, and has a slightly higher humidity of 77%. For a more detailed look at February weather, you can check Matara weather in February.
In March, the weather features slightly lower minimum temperatures at 23°C (73°F) compared to May's 24°C (75°F), although both months share an average temperature of 27°C (81°F). March experiences a higher maximum temperature of 34°C (94°F) versus May's 32°C (90°F). Precipitation in March is notably less, with 121 mm (4.8 in) over 21 days, in contrast to May's significant 252 mm (9.9 in) spread over 29 days, contributing to higher humidity levels that are somewhat similar in both months—77% in March and 76% in May. For more detailed insights, you can check Matara weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with May having a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and April slightly higher at 23°C (74°F). However, May's maximum temperature reaches 32°C (90°F), while April peaks at a warmer 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in May, totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) over 29 days, compared to April's 172 mm (6.8 in) across 25 days. Humidity levels are quite comparable, with May at 76% and April slightly higher at 77%. For more specific details about April's weather, you can refer to Matara weather in April.
May and June in Matara exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months featuring a minimum of 24°C (75°F), an average around 27°C (81°F-82°F), and maximum temperatures peaking at 32°C (89°F-90°F). However, June experiences a noticeable decrease in precipitation, with total rainfall at 189 mm (7.4 in) compared to May’s 252 mm (9.9 in), despite only a slight difference in the number of rainy days—28 in June versus 29 in May. Additionally, June has higher humidity levels at 83%, compared to May’s 76%, making the air feel a bit more oppressive. For more detailed insights, you can explore Matara weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we observe that both months share a similar average temperature, hovering around 27°C (81°F). However, May experiences slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 32°C (90°F) compared to July's peak of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is significantly more abundant in May, with 252 mm (9.9 in) falling over 29 days, whereas July sees only 156 mm (6.1 in) across 27 days. Additionally, July has a marginally higher humidity level at 81%, compared to May's 76%. For more detailed insights on the weather patterns during this month, you can check Matara weather in July.
In comparing the weather of May and August, we see some notable differences and similarities. Both months have a minimum temperature of 24°C (75°F) and an average temperature that is quite close, with May at 27°C (82°F) and August slightly lower at 27°C (80°F). However, May tends to be hotter overall, with maximum temperatures reaching 32°C (90°F) compared to August's 30°C (87°F).
In terms of precipitation, May is significantly wetter, receiving 252 mm (9.9 in) over 29 days, whereas August sees 170 mm (6.7 in) spread across 27 days. Additionally, August has a higher humidity level at 82%, compared to May's 76%. For more detailed information about August weather, you can check Matara weather in August.
May and September both feature warm temperatures, but May tends to be slightly hotter with average highs reaching 32°C (90°F) compared to September’s maximum of 31°C (88°F). In May, the average temperature is 27°C (82°F), while in September it averages 26°C (80°F). Precipitation is quite significant in both months, but May experiences more rainfall with 252 mm (9.9 in) compared to September's 209 mm (8.2 in). Additionally, May has 29 rainy days, while September has 26, contributing to a slightly higher humidity level in September at 82%, compared to 76% in May. For further details on September weather, you can check Matara weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, both months exhibit warm temperatures with May slightly edging out October in terms of average highs, reaching a maximum of 32°C (90°F) compared to October's 31°C (88°F). Despite this, the overall difference in minimum temperatures is minimal, with May starting at 24°C (75°F) and October at 23°C (74°F). Rainfall is quite close, with May experiencing 252 mm over 29 days, while October sees a slightly higher precipitation level of 258 mm over 27 days. Additionally, humidity rises in October to 83%, compared to May's 76%, giving October a more humid feel. For a more detailed look at the climate specifics, you can explore Matara weather in October.
In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average around 27°C (82°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 252 mm (9.9 in) across 29 days, while humidity averages 76%. In contrast, November sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F), an average of 26°C (80°F), and a maximum of 31°C (89°F). Precipitation in November is slightly higher at 261 mm (10.3 in) over 26 days, accompanied by increased humidity levels averaging 81%. For a more detailed look at November weather, check out Matara weather in November.
May and December exhibit distinct weather patterns, despite their similar temperature ranges. In May, temperatures tend to be slightly warmer, with average highs around 32°C (90°F) and significant precipitation of 252 mm (9.9 in) occurring over 29 days, contributing to a humid environment with 76% humidity. In contrast, December offers a slightly cooler climate, with average temperatures peaking at 32°C (89°F) and less rainfall at 188 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 82%. For more detailed insights on December weather, you can visit Matara weather in December.
As May unfolds in Matara, the weather presents a warm and humid atmosphere that sets it apart from other months of the year. With a maximum temperature often peaking at a steamy 32°C (90°F), residents and visitors experience an average warmth that underlines the tropical charm of the region. However, this month also brings a considerable amount of rainfall, evidenced by approximately 252 mm across nearly 29 days, making it one of the wetter times on the calendar. Visitors should be prepared for the high humidity of 76%, which can intensify the heat, creating a climate that is both vibrant and lush. For a detailed overview of the weather patterns, be sure to check out Matara Climate.