Last updated: August 27, 2025
May in Phuket, Thailand offers a warm embrace, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (83°F), reaching highs of 30°C (87°F) and dipping to a comfortable 26°C (79°F). This month marks the start of the wet season, resulting in frequent rain showers that contribute to a total precipitation of 267 mm (10.5 in) across approximately 27 rainy days. Despite the increased rainfall, humidity levels can climb to a notable 72%, creating a lush, tropical atmosphere perfect for those willing to explore the island's vibrant landscapes and rich culture amidst the occasional downpour.
May in Phuket, Thailand, marks a subtle transition as temperatures begin to settle into a warm and humid rhythm. With minimum temperatures around 26°C (79°F), the month starts off pleasantly mild, while the average hovers at 28°C (83°F) and peaks with maximums reaching 30°C (87°F). This slight dip from the hotter months prior suggests a gradual shift toward the rainy season, yet the tropical warmth remains inviting for beach lovers. As the transition unfolds, the weather in May retains a consistent charm, making it a lovely time for visitors to enjoy outdoor adventures before the monsoon rains set in.
In May, Phuket experiences a significant surge in rainfall, accumulating an impressive 267 mm (10.5 in) over the course of 27 days—the highest monthly precipitation prior to the peak rainy season. This marks a noticeable increase from April's already substantial 166 mm (6.6 in), indicating a clear trend as the region transitions into its wetter months. With the skies often overcast and showers frequent, May's climate can be both refreshing and challenging for outdoor activities. The consistent rainfall not only enriches the lush landscapes but also sets the stage for the heavier downpours of June and September, highlighting a pivotal period in Phuket's tropical climate. As the rain becomes a backdrop to the island's natural beauty, visitors and locals alike adapt to the rhythm of the season, embracing the vibrant life that flourishes in the tropical downpours.
In May, Phuket experiences a mild humidity level of 72%, which reflects a transitional period between the drier months of January through April and the significantly more humid summer months ahead. Following a trend of decreasing humidity from January (76%) to April (71%), May's levels indicate a slight uptick, suggesting the onset of the wet season. This pattern continues into June when humidity rises sharply to 79%, creating a contrast to the preceding months. As summer progresses, humidity climbs substantially, peaking in the wetter months of August and September, where levels soar to 82% and 84%, respectively. Thus, while May still enjoys relatively moderate humidity, the signs of increasing tropical moisture are unmistakable, heralding the arrival of Phuket's lush and vibrant monsoon season.
In May, Phuket experiences a UV Index of 14, maintaining its place in the extreme exposure category, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. This slight dip from the peak 15 recorded in both March and April suggests the intensity of UV radiation is still formidable, making sun protection essential for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Throughout the year, this tropical paradise consistently boasts high UV levels, with January to May showcasing indices between 12 and 15. As spring transitions to summer, it remains crucial to stay vigilant against UV exposure to fully enjoy Phuket's sunny splendor. For more insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Phuket UV Index.
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May in Phuket, Thailand, brings a delightful average of 308 sunshine hours, making it a splendid time for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Following the sunniest months of March and April, which saw peaks of 344 and 317 hours respectively, May continues the trend of vibrant days while transitioning into the rainy season. Although the sunshine slightly dips, the warm tropical climate remains inviting, ensuring that visitors can still bask in the beauty of this island paradise. As the year progresses, June experiences a minor decline in sunshine hours, yet the allure of Phuket’s beaches and lush landscapes during May still captivates travelers seeking a picturesque getaway.
The likelihood of sunny weather in May in Phuket, Thailand, takes a noticeable dip, with only a 15% chance of sun. This trend marks one of the lowest probabilities for clear skies in the year, following a peak in February at 47% and a decline in the preceding months. The weather pattern suggests that as the dry season comes to a close, the island transitions into its wetter months, making May a less favorable time for sun-seekers. Comparatively, the chances of sunshine begin to rise again in June (21%), hinting that while May may present challenging conditions for beach lovers, the subsequent months offer a glimmer of hope for clearer days ahead.
In Phuket, Thailand, the daylight duration showcases a gentle rhythm throughout the year. Beginning with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, the island slowly welcomes longer days. By March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a trend that continues through the summer months of April and May. Interestingly, this steady 12-hour daylight span persists from May through August, creating an inviting environment for beachgoers and explorers alike. September marks a return to 11 hours as the year transitions into the cooler months of October through December, evoking a sense of balance in the tropical climate. Whether basking in the vibrant sun or enjoying the warm evenings, Phuket's daylight patterns offer a consistent charm year-round.
In May, Phuket experiences a subtle decrease in average wind speed, registering at 3.6 m/s (8 mph). This trend marks one of the calmest months of the year, following the steady breezes of early spring. Surprisingly, May's gentle winds are a precursor to the shifting patterns seen in the subsequent months, with June bringing a slight uptick to 4.4 m/s (10 mph). As the dry season transitions into the wet, the winds in Phuket often become unpredictable, setting a lively atmosphere for both adventurers and those seeking relaxation by the sea. This transitional month invites visitors to enjoy the softer breezes, perfect for leisurely beach days before the more vigorous gusts of summer sweep in.
Weather in Phuket varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Phuket, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, both months showcase warm temperatures, but May is notably more humid and wetter. May's average temperature stands at 28°C (83°F), just slightly warmer than January's 27°C (81°F), but it experiences significantly higher precipitation with 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days compared to January's 111 mm (4.4 in) across just 9 days. Additionally, while humidity is slightly higher in January at 76%, May's humidity rests at 72%, creating a more oppressive feel during the rains. For more details, check out Phuket weather in January.
May and February exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. In February, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), making it comfortably warm. There is significantly less rainfall during this month, with just 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over only 4 days, coupled with a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, May experiences higher temperatures, with a minimum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F). However, it also brings increased rainfall, accumulating 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 72%. For more detailed insights, you can check Phuket weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, both months share similar average temperatures, hovering around 28°C (83°F), but they diverge significantly in terms of precipitation. May experiences substantially more rainfall, with a total of 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days, leading to a humid atmosphere at 72%. In contrast, March boasts much lighter precipitation of just 38 mm (1.5 in) over 8 days, though it has a slightly higher humidity level at 74%. For those looking to plan a trip, Phuket weather in March offers insights that illustrate the more favorable conditions of early spring compared to the wetter and more humid month of May.
In comparing the weather in May and April, both months show a similar temperature range, with May having a minimum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), while April's minimum is slightly lower at 25°C (78°F) but shares the same average. However, May experiences significantly heavier rainfall, totaling 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days, compared to April's 166 mm (6.6 in) over 20 days. Both months maintain a high humidity level, with May at 72% and April slightly lower at 71%. For more detailed information, you can check Phuket weather in April.
May and June in Phuket exhibit relatively similar temperature ranges, with May experiencing slightly warmer temperatures, having a minimum of 26°C (79°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), while June's temperatures hover slightly lower with a minimum of 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). Both months, however, maintain an average temperature of 28°C (83°F).
When it comes to precipitation, June sees an increase in rainfall with 275 mm (10.8 in) compared to May's 267 mm (10.5 in), although the number of rainy days is slightly fewer in June at 24 days versus May's 27 days. Additionally, June is marked by higher humidity levels at 79%, compared to May's 72%. For more detailed insights, visit Phuket weather in June.
In May, temperatures tend to be slightly warmer, with daily averages reaching around 28°C (83°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). However, it also experiences heavier rainfall, accumulating 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, July sees similar average temperatures, yet slightly cooler maximums at 29°C (85°F), and less precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 21 days, along with a higher humidity level of 79%. For a more detailed insight into the rainy season, you can check Phuket weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with August showing a slightly lower maximum temperature of 30°C (86°F) compared to May's 30°C (87°F). The minimum temperatures remain close as well, with May at 26°C (79°F) and August at 25°C (77°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with May experiencing 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days and August having 265 mm (10.4 in) over 23 days. However, August is noticeably more humid at 82%, compared to May's 72%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Phuket weather in August.
May and September weather in Phuket exhibit some notable similarities and differences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 26°C (79°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F). The month sees significant rainfall, with 267 mm (10.5 in) of precipitation over 27 days and a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, September features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 27°C (81°F). However, it experiences even more rainfall, accumulating 309 mm (12.2 in) over 25 days and a higher humidity level of 84%. For those interested in the specifics of September's weather patterns, further details can be found here: Phuket weather in September.
In May, the weather features warm temperatures with a minimum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), peaking at a maximum of 30°C (87°F). However, this month experiences significant rainfall, with about 267 mm (10.5 in) spread over 27 days and humidity levels at 72%. Conversely, October presents slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F), an average of 27°C (81°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), but it is characterized by even greater precipitation. This month sees about 319 mm (12.6 in) of rain, also over 27 days, with increased humidity at 83%. For more detailed information about the weather in October, you can visit Phuket weather in October.
May and November in Phuket exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing warm conditions characterized by average highs of around 30°C (87°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer with an average temperature of 28°C (83°F), compared to November's average of 27°C (81°F). In addition, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days, while November sees less rain at 199 mm (7.8 in) over 23 days. The humidity is also notably higher in November at 84%, compared to 72% in May. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, you can visit Phuket weather in November.
May and December both offer warm temperatures, but they differ significantly in terms of precipitation and humidity. In May, the weather features a slightly higher average temperature of 28°C (83°F), with a high of 30°C (87°F), but it is marked by heavy rainfall, totaling 267 mm (10.5 in) over 27 days and a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, December sees milder conditions with an average temperature of 27°C (80°F) and also a high of 30°C (87°F). However, it experiences much less rainfall, with only 124 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, and a higher humidity level of 84%. For more details on the December weather, visit Phuket weather in December.
As May arrives in Phuket, the island experiences a shift in its weather pattern, with increased humidity and a notable rise in precipitation. This month typically marks the transition to the monsoon season, resulting in more frequent rain showers compared to previous months. With average temperatures lingering around a warm 28°C, visitors can still enjoy the tropical climate, albeit with the need for some flexibility in their outdoor plans. While the lush landscapes thrive under the rain, it’s essential to stay updated on the weather before venturing out. For a deeper understanding of Phuket's climate throughout the year, check out Phuket Climate.