May Weather in Sanaa, Yemen

Last updated: August 28, 2025

In May, Sanaa, Yemen, experiences a pleasant climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 29°C (85°F) and a comfortable average of 20°C (69°F). The city sees a minimum temperature dipping to 10°C (50°F), offering cooler evenings. This month typically witnesses 74 mm (2.9 in) of rainfall spread over 11 days, creating a lush atmosphere amidst a backdrop of 45% humidity. Whether you're exploring the vibrant local culture or enjoying the scenic landscapes, May in Sanaa presents an inviting balance of warmth and refreshing showers.

May Temperature in Sanaa

In May, Sanaa, Yemen, begins to warm significantly as the city transitions deeper into spring. With minimum temperatures reaching a mild 10°C (50°F) and averaging around 20°C (69°F), the days become increasingly pleasant and inviting for outdoor activities. The maximum temperatures rise to a comfortable 29°C (85°F), marking a clear progression from the cooler temperatures of earlier months. This trend of warming continues into the summer, with May presenting a delightful blend of warmth and cool evenings, making it one of the more enjoyable months before the heat intensifies in June.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Sanaa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Sanaa, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec596164656872706769646158
Data source: Temperature data for Sanaa 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 Sanaa

May marks a notable increase in precipitation in Sanaa, Yemen, with 74 mm (2.9 in) of rainfall recorded over 11 days, setting the stage for a lush transition into summer. This figure represents a significant jump from the previous months, reflecting an upward trend initiated in April, where 59 mm (2.3 in) fell across 10 days. The onset of May often heralds the peak rainy season, further illustrated by the pattern of increasing rainfall that continues into August, the wettest month. As the landscape shifts during this period, the city's residents prepare for the active, rain-soaked days that lie ahead, enhancing both the natural environment and the agricultural landscape of this historic region.

May Precipitation Trends in Sanaa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sanaa, 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 Sanaa, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4131260742264118252544
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Sanaa

In Sanaa, Yemen, the month of May experiences a humidity level of 45%, marking a slight increase from the typically drier months of March and April, which hover around 36% to 37%. This trend signals a transition as the region approaches the hotter summer months. Leading into June, humidity rises to 46%, and further escalates in the summer, peaking in August at a notable 73%. Overall, the data suggests that while May maintains relatively moderate humidity, it sets the stage for a significant increase as the year progresses, contributing to the characteristic heat and aridity of the region during the summer months.

May Average Humidity in Sanaa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Sanaa, 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 Sanaa is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48%49%36%37%45%46%54%73%63%63%63%56%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Sanaa

In May, the UV Index in Sanaa, Yemen reaches 15, maintaining the region's trend of extreme exposure that has persisted since January. With a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes, this month continues to highlight the critical need for sun protection. April's peak of 16 reflects the intense sunlight that characterizes this time of year, yet May sees a slight dip without compromising the immediate danger. Throughout this spring, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant against sun damage, as the UV index stays alarmingly high, mirroring the patterns observed in previous months. For more detailed information and safety tips, check Sanaa UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sanaa for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sanaa 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 Sanaa typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121315161514131314131110
Data source: Sanaa 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 Sanaa

As May unfolds in Sanaa, Yemen, the city basks in an impressive 346 hours of bright sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. The trend of increasing daylight hours from January's 270 hours to May's peak illustrates a steady rise in warmth and brightness, captivating residents and visitors alike. Following a slight dip in April, the sunshine hours rebound, surpassing the previous months and creating a vibrant atmosphere. Even as the year progresses into June and July, Sanaa maintains a remarkable consistency in sunshine, showcasing its alluring allure throughout the spring and summer months. This consistent glow not only enhances the city's picturesque landscapes but also uplifts the spirits of its inhabitants.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sanaa: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sanaa 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec270h306h345h335h346h340h337h335h333h338h324h331h
Data source: Sanaa May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sanaa During May

In Sanaa, Yemen, the likelihood of sunny weather sees a notable decline as spring transitions into summer. While January kicks off the year with a robust 88% chance of sunshine, this figure gradually tapers, reaching 52% by May. This dip is significant, especially when contrasted with the preceding months of March and April, which boast higher probabilities of clear skies at 92% and 68%, respectively. As the city prepares for the warm months ahead, May marks a turning point where the chance of sun becomes more uncertain, hinting at a shift in weather patterns that will continue into the hotter summer months when the likelihood of sunshine dips even further.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Sanaa

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sanaa 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 Sanaa experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%82%92%68%52%57%39%59%57%77%90%91%
Data source: Sanaa May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sanaa in May

In Sanaa, Yemen, daylight duration experiences a subtle yet captivating evolution throughout the year. Starting with a steady 11 hours in both January and February, the days begin to lengthen as March arrives, reaching 12 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into April and May. This period of increased sunlight marks the transition into the warmer months, peaking in June with 13 hours of daylight. However, as summer wanes, the daylight gradually tapers off, returning to 12 hours from July through September, before descending back to 11 hours during the cooler months of October through December. This cyclical pattern highlights the gentle rhythm of Sanaa's seasonal changes, providing a consistent yet dynamic experience of daylight.

Average Daylight Hours in Sanaa for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sanaa throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 19m11h 37m12h 2m12h 28m12h 49m13h12h 54m12h 36m12h 11m11h 46m11h 24m11h 13m
Data source: Sanaa daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Sanaa

As May arrives in Sanaa, Yemen, the breezy gusts begin to pick up, with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight increase from the preceding months. This trend highlights a seasonal shift, as the city transitions into the heart of spring, where winds generally strengthen. In fact, May's gentle breezes serve as a precursor to the summer months, where subsequent wind speeds rise further, peaking at 3.2 m/s (7 mph) in June and October. The gradual increase observed from January's 2.0 m/s demonstrates a subtle but noticeable enhancement in wind activity, providing a refreshing contrast to the warmer temperatures. This ongoing variability reflects not only the dynamism of Sanaa’s climate but also sets the stage for the refreshing conditions that summer will soon bring.

Average May Wind Speed in Sanaa

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sanaa, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.02.12.32.22.6 m/s3.22.62.42.73.22.31.9
Data source: Sanaa May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Sanaa Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (50°F) at night to a warm 29°C (85°F) during the day, making it a pleasant month with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). However, it does experience more precipitation, with about 74 mm (2.9 in) falling over 11 days, contributing to a moderate humidity level of 45%.

In contrast, January features cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows of 1°C (34°F) and daytime highs reaching 26°C (79°F), resulting in a much lower average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Remarkably, January sees very little rainfall, accumulating only 4 mm (0.1 in) across the month, and boasts zero precipitation days, coupled with a slightly higher humidity of 48%. For a detailed look at January weather in Sanaa, you can visit Sanaa weather in January.

May and February present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). This month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, and the humidity hovers at around 45%. In contrast, February is cooler, with a minimum temperature of 3°C (39°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). February sees significantly less rainfall, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days, and slightly higher humidity at 49%. For more detailed insights into February weather, check out Sanaa weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, March tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while May experiences warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, March has significantly less precipitation, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, compared to May's 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 11 rainy days. Humidity levels also vary, with March at 36% and May higher at 45%. For more detailed information, you can check Sanaa weather in March.

In comparison to April, May typically experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with average highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F) compared to April's max of 28°C (83°F). The minimum temperatures also rise, averaging 10°C (50°F) in May versus 8°C (46°F) in April. Precipitation is more frequent in May, with 74 mm (2.9 in) falling over 11 days, compared to April's 59 mm (2.3 in) over 10 days. Additionally, May exhibits a higher humidity level at 45%, compared to April’s 37%. For more detailed insights, check out Sanaa weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, June typically experiences warmer temperatures, with minimums rising from 10°C (50°F) in May to 13°C (56°F) in June, and maximums climbing from 29°C (85°F) in May to 31°C (88°F) in June. The average temperature also increases slightly, shifting from 20°C (69°F) in May to 22°C (72°F) in June. Additionally, June sees significantly less precipitation, dropping to just 22 mm (0.9 in) over 4 days compared to May's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, resulting in a drier month. Humidity remains relatively stable, with a slight increase from 45% in May to 46% in June. For more detailed information, you can explore Sanaa weather in June.

May experience milder temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), making it a comfortable month overall. In contrast, July sees a slight increase in minimum temperatures at 13°C (55°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), which contributes to generally warmer conditions. While both months share the same number of rainy days at 11, May has slightly higher precipitation levels of 74 mm (2.9 in) compared to July's 64 mm (2.5 in). Additionally, July exhibits higher humidity at 54%, compared to May’s 45%. For more information, you can check Sanaa weather in July.

When comparing the weather in May and August, some notable differences stand out. May generally enjoys a warm temperature range, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging around 20°C (69°F). In contrast, August sees a slightly higher minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a peak of 30°C (85°F), but maintains a similar average temperature of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation also varies significantly: May typically experiences 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, while August is wetter, with 118 mm (4.6 in) distributed over 21 days. Moreover, August has noticeably higher humidity at 73%, compared to May's more comfortable 45% humidity levels. For more detailed information on the weather in August, check out Sanaa weather in August.

May and September both feature similar maximum temperatures, reaching up to 29°C (85°F). However, May tends to have slightly cooler nights with a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F), while September starts off a bit warmer at 12°C (54°F). The average temperatures are almost on par, with May averaging 20°C (69°F) and September slightly higher at 21°C (69°F). In terms of precipitation, May is notably wetter, receiving 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, compared to September's 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 7 days. Additionally, September experiences higher humidity at 63%, compared to May's 45%. For more details on September weather, visit Sanaa weather in September.

May and October present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month experiences higher precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over about 11 days, and humidity levels are relatively low at 45%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging around 18°C (64°F). Notably, October is much drier, with only 25 mm (1.0 in) of rain across just 2 days, and humidity rises to 63%. For a closer look at October weather specifics, you can check Sanaa weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation, averaging 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, and a lower humidity level of 45%. In contrast, November showcases cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Remarkably, November has little to no precipitation, only 4 mm (0.1 in) over 0 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 63%. For more detailed insights, visit Sanaa weather in November.

May and December present quite contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a pleasant average of 20°C (69°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). This month sees a notable amount of rainfall, with 74 mm (2.9 in) spread over 11 days, and humidity levels at 45%. Conversely, December offers much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), reaching a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is minimal in December, totaling just 4 mm (0.2 in) and occurring on no days, while humidity increases to 56%. For a more detailed look at December weather, you can visit Sanaa weather in December.

Compare Sanaa's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Sanaa

As May unfolds in Sanaa, the weather shifts into a pleasant warmth, offering a delightful escape from the cooler months. With an average temperature rising to around 20°C (69°F), residents can enjoy more time outdoors, but it’s essential to be prepared for occasional light rainfall—about 11 days this month—contributing to a total precipitation of 74 mm (2.9 in). Compared to the cooler and drier conditions of the preceding months, May's weather presents a beautiful blend of mild temperatures and a moderate humidity level at 45%, making it an inviting time for both locals and visitors. For more details on how May fits into the yearly climate of this historic city, visit Sanaa Climate.