May weather forecast
Santa Elena, Belize

In Santa Elena, May signifies the prelude to the wet season, with the first substantial increase in rainfall, reaching up to 50mm (1.97") in the month. The city experience a mixed bag of weather conditions, with warm temperatures prevailing, yet a slight increase in humidity. Despite the onset of rains, the city enjoys the maximum daylight hours of the year, saturating the surroundings with a bright and lucid ambiance. The frequent drizzles accompanied by the moderate winds provide respite from the heat, setting the stage for the impending rainy season.

Temperature

The transition into May shows a subtle variation to a still tropical 32.4°C (90.3°F) from April's 33.1°C (91.6°F) in the average high-temperature. The nights of May anticipate an average low-temperature of 21.5°C (70.7°F).

Heat index

May's heat index is appraised at a burning hot 45°C (113°F). Beware: Heat exhaustion along with heat cramps are on the cards. Heatstroke could result from sustained physical activity.
Understanding the heat index involves considering values for shaded locales with light wind. The heat index has the potential to rise by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sunshine exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', is calculated by taking the relative humidity value for a specific location and factoring it into the air temperature reading. An individual's temperature experience can be influenced by extra factors, including metabolic differences, activity levels, and clothing. In direct sunlight, the heat's impact can be heightened, potentially leading to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are especially crucial for babies and toddlers. Kids generally face higher risks than adults as they sweat less. Along with their large skin surface compared to their small bodies and higher heat production due to their activities, their vulnerability is increased.
To prevent overheating and help regulate its internal temperature, the human body sweat and rely on the evaporation to cool down. Increased relative humidity slows down evaporation, thereby decreasing the rate of heat removal from the body, culminating in a sensation of overheating. Heat-related complications, like dehydration, can manifest if the body's heat gain exceeds its dissipation capacity.

Humidity

In May, the average relative humidity is 78%.

Rainfall

In May, the rain falls for 18.4 days. Throughout May, 50mm (1.97") of precipitation is accumulated. In Santa Elena, during the entire year, the rain falls for 206.8 days and collects up to 513mm (20.2") of precipitation.

Daylight

In May, the average length of the day in Santa Elena is 12h and 56min.
On the first day of May, sunrise is at 05:30 and sunset at 18:16. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:21 and sunset at 18:26 CST.

Sunshine

In Santa Elena, the average sunshine in May is 9h.

UV index

April through July, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: An average UV index of 7 in May transforms into this advice:
Shield from overexposure. Defense against sun-related harm is required. Limit direct sun exposure and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the time of the most intense UV radiation, noting that shade structures may not provide total sun protection. A wide-brimmed hat is a shield, deflecting up to 50% of harmful UV radiation from eyes.