May Weather in Kampala, Uganda

Last updated: August 28, 2025

May in Kampala, Uganda is characterized by a pleasantly warm climate, with an average temperature of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and dipping to a minimum of 19°C (66°F). This month sees significant rainfall, accumulating to 190 mm (7.5 in) over approximately 25 days, resulting in high humidity levels around 84%. The conditions create a lush, vibrant environment while offering a refreshing respite from the warmer days, making May a uniquely dynamic and invigorating time to experience Kampala's natural beauty.

May Temperature in Kampala

In May, Kampala experiences mild temperatures that continue the city's trend of warmth throughout the year. With a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), the average temperature dips slightly to 22°C (72°F), signaling a gentle shift as the region approaches its rainy season. This month stands out with its slightly cooler climate compared to the preceding months, yet still maintains a comfortable ambiance ideal for exploring the vibrant city. As the rains begin to fall, visitors can expect refreshing weather, making May a pleasant time to witness Kampala's lush landscapes and lively culture.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kampala, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kampala, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec737474737272717172727273
Data source: Temperature data for Kampala generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Kampala

May in Kampala, Uganda continues the trend of significant rainfall as the region transitions deeper into its wet season. With 190 mm (7.5 in) of precipitation over 25 days, this month showcases a slight decrease in rainfall compared to the peak of April, which recorded 209 mm (8.2 in). However, it remains markedly higher than earlier months, such as January and February, highlighting the region's characteristic lushness that comes alive during these rainy months. The consistent precipitation contributes to the vibrant greenery that Kampala is known for, making May an essential part of the rainfall cycle and setting the stage for the drier period that follows in the subsequent months of June and July.

May Precipitation Trends in Kampala

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kampala, 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. In Kampala, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8810917820919010685106125157166124
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Kampala

In May, Kampala, Uganda, experiences a significant spike in humidity, reaching 84%, which marks the peak of the wet season. This rise follows a gradual increase from 53% in March to 67% in April, showcasing how the city's moisture levels build towards the rainy months. The warm and humid air creates a lush, vibrant atmosphere, ideal for the thriving greenery that the region is renowned for. Interestingly, the humidity begins to taper off in the subsequent months, settling at 79% in June and continuing to decline throughout the year, yet always remaining noticeably high. This pattern highlights Kampala's tropical climate, where the humidity plays a vital role in shaping both the landscape and the local lifestyle.

May Average Humidity in Kampala

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kampala, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Kampala is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec63%59%53%67%84%80%76%76%82%89%90%83%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kampala

May in Kampala, Uganda, sees a UV Index of 13, indicating an extreme exposure category with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. While slightly lower than the indices recorded in the earlier months of the year, which peaked at 16 in March, May still maintains its status as a time when sun protection is crucial. This trend of high UV levels persists from January through April, demonstrating that the sun’s intensity remains a significant factor for outdoor enthusiasts. As the year progresses into the warmer months, it’s important to remain vigilant about sun safety. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, check out the comprehensive resource on the Kampala UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kampala for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kampala 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. In May, the maximum UV index in Kampala typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141516151311111213121212
Data source: Kampala 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 Kampala

May in Kampala, Uganda, shines brightly with 298 hours of delightful sunshine, continuing the trend of a radiant dry season. While slightly lower than the sunlit peaks seen in March, the month still benefits from the extended daylight that characterizes this vibrant region. As we transition into June, the sunshine only intensifies, reaching 319 hours, keeping spirits high and the city basking under a warm glow. This upward trend from March until the mid-year months showcases Kampala's charm, inviting exploration and outdoor activities amid its rich cultural tapestry. Overall, May serves as a beautiful link in a chain of increasingly sunny days, embodying the joy of life in this captivating city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kampala: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kampala 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec274h302h326h284h298h319h329h328h318h318h312h331h
Data source: Kampala May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kampala During May

As May approaches in Kampala, Uganda, there’s a 32% chance of enjoying sunny weather, marking a slight uptick from April’s 18% yet still reflective of the transitional nature of the month. This period showcases a notable trend of increasing sunshine as the region shifts from the rainy season, paving the way for drier months ahead. While May’s likelihood of sun falls short of the sunny peaks observed in the mid-year months like June (42%) and August (40%), it signifies a gradual return to brighter days. Such weather dynamics highlight the vibrant changes that define Kampala’s climate, making May a promising time for outdoor activities as the sun begins to reclaim its place in the sky.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kampala

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kampala 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 Kampala experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34%22%29%18%32%42%30%40%27%27%30%24%
Data source: Kampala May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kampala in May

In Kampala, Uganda, daylight hours exhibit a remarkable consistency throughout the year, maintaining a steady 12-hour cycle from January to December. This equilibrium creates a unique charm in the region, where each day is evenly split between light and dark, allowing residents and visitors alike to engage in various activities regardless of the month. The balanced daylight duration fosters a vibrant atmosphere, making the city an appealing destination at any time of the year. Whether you're exploring the lush landscapes or experiencing the lively culture, the reliable 12 hours of daylight ensures that Kampala shines brightly, inviting all to bask in its beauty.

Average Daylight Hours in Kampala for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kampala throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 6m12h 6m12h 6m12h 6m12h 6m12h 7m12h 7m12h 6m12h 6m12h 6m12h 6m12h 6m
Data source: Kampala daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kampala

In Kampala, Uganda, the month of May brings a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight dip from the previous month. The wind begins to pick up momentum as the year progresses, moving from 2.2 m/s in January to 3.1 m/s in June, demonstrating a gradual but noticeable increase in wind intensity. This trend reflects Kampala's transitional climate, where the winds shift in response to seasonal changes. Following a peak in July, the breeze softens again as the year winds down, with October recording the lowest speeds at 1.9 m/s (4 mph). Overall, May stands as a sweet transition, offering a refreshing experience before the winds intensify in the coming months.

Average May Wind Speed in Kampala

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kampala, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.22.42.72.92.6 m/s3.13.32.32.31.92.12.0
Data source: Kampala May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kampala Compares to Other Months

Weather in Kampala varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Kampala, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

When comparing the weather in May and January, May tends to be warmer and more humid. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month is characterized by significant rainfall, receiving 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days, and the humidity levels are notably high at 84%. In contrast, January experiences slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F), an average of 23°C (74°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Additionally, January sees considerably less rainfall, with only 88 mm (3.5 in) over 15 days and a lower humidity level of 63%. For more detailed information on January weather, visit Kampala weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, both months experience warm temperatures, but February tends to be slightly warmer overall. In February, the average temperature reaches 23°C (74°F), with a maximum of 29°C (84°F), while in May, the average is a bit lower at 22°C (72°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). February also has less rainfall, with 109 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation over 19 days compared to May's 190 mm (7.5 in) spread over 25 days. Humidity levels are significantly higher in May at 84%, compared to February's more comfortable 59%. For more details on February weather, check out Kampala weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, both months experience relatively warm temperatures, with March having slightly higher average temperatures. March sees minimum temperatures of around 19°C (67°F) and averages 23°C (74°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). In contrast, May's minimum stays the same at 19°C (66°F), but the average drops slightly to 22°C (72°F), with a maximum of 27°C (81°F). While precipitation levels are somewhat comparable, with May receiving 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days and March slightly less at 178 mm (7.0 in) over 26 days, May has higher humidity at 84%, compared to March's more comfortable 53%. For a closer look at what you can expect during March, check out Kampala weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see distinct patterns. April experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while May's average is a bit warmer at 22°C (72°F) with a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Notably, while April has a higher average minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F), May has a slightly higher minimum of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation levels also tell a story; April sees a total of 209 mm (8.2 in) across 27 days, compared to May's 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days. Additionally, humidity is more pronounced in May at 84%, compared to April's 67%. For those interested in the detailed statistics for April, you can check Kampala weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, both months maintain a similar average temperature of 22°C (72°F), with minimal variation in minimum and maximum temperatures. May experiences slightly warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), whereas June's temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation significantly decreases in June, with 106 mm (4.2 in) recorded over 20 days compared to May's 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days, resulting in lower humidity levels in June at 79%, down from 84% in May. For more detailed information, you can visit Kampala weather in June.

In comparing the weather of May and July, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, hovering around 22°C (72°F). However, May tends to feel warmer overall, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 27°C (81°F) compared to July's 26°C (79°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly higher rainfall, with 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days, while July sees only 85 mm (3.4 in) across 17 days, leading to a drier climate. Humidity levels are also higher in May at 84%, compared to 76% in July, contributing to a more uncomfortable atmosphere during the former month. For more detailed information, you can check this link: Kampala weather in July.

In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while August sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a low of 18°C (64°F) and a high of 26°C (80°F). Both months have an average temperature of 22°C (72°F). However, May experiences significantly higher precipitation with 190 mm (7.5 in) across 25 days, compared to August's 106 mm (4.2 in) over just 22 days. Additionally, humidity levels in May are higher at 84%, while August has a more comfortable humidity of 76%. For more detailed information on the weather in August, you can check Kampala weather in August.

May and September in Kampala present fairly similar weather patterns, particularly in terms of temperature. Both months feature a minimum temperature of around 19°C (66°F) and an average high of 27°C (81°F), maintaining a comfortable climate. However, May typically experiences significantly more rainfall, with 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days, compared to September's 125 mm (4.9 in) over 24 days. This increased precipitation in May is accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 84%, compared to September’s 82%. For more details on the September weather, you can check this link: Kampala weather in September.

May and October in Kampala exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months averaging around 22°C (72°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F). However, May tends to be wetter, experiencing 190 mm (7.5 in) of precipitation over 25 days, compared to October's 157 mm (6.2 in) across 26 days. Humidity also plays a significant role, with October slightly higher at 89%, compared to May's 84%. For more detailed information, you can check out Kampala weather in October.

In May, the weather features warm temperatures with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is significant, with 190 mm (7.5 in) spread over 25 days, and the humidity averages around 84%. In contrast, November boasts a similar temperature profile, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and a maximum of 27°C (82°F). However, the precipitation is slightly lower at 166 mm (6.5 in), also across 25 days, with higher humidity at 90%. For more detailed insights, check out Kampala weather in November.

May and December in Kampala display surprisingly similar weather patterns, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C (66°F) to 27°C (81°F) in May and slightly warmer temperatures of 18°C (65°F) to 27°C (81°F) in December. However, May is characterized by significantly higher precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over 25 days, compared to December's 124 mm (4.9 in) also over 25 days. The humidity remains comparable, with May at 84% and December slightly lower at 83%. For a more detailed look at December weather specifics, you can refer to this page: Kampala weather in December.

Compare Kampala's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kampala

May in Kampala is characterized by higher humidity levels and significant rainfall, creating a striking contrast to the drier months that precede it. With an average temperature that comfortably hovers around 22°C, residents and visitors can expect warm days, despite the frequent showers that contribute to the city's lush scenery. The sustained precipitation during this month enhances the vibrant green landscapes that define Kampala, making it a uniquely beautiful time of year. For those looking to delve deeper into how May weather compares to other months, check out Kampala Climate for more insights.