May indicates a notable shift in
Ziguinchor's weather, as it ushers rain for the first time in the year. The city is transformed with increased greenery and a drop in temperatures, though sea temperatures continue to rise, reaching a comfortable 24.9°C (76.8°F). On a cautionary note, the UV index still remains at a whopping 12 units. Upon entering
June, Ziguinchor witnesses a substantial increase in rainfall, marking the beginning of the wet season.
Temperature
As Ziguinchor welcomes May, the average high-temperature is noted at a still fiery hot 36°C (96.8°F), closely aligning with the preceding month. Nighttime temperatures throughout May in Ziguinchor,
Senegal, register a significant deviation from the day's highs, averaging at an agreeable 21°C (69.8°F).
Rainfall
Months with rainfall in Ziguinchor are May through
December. May is the first month it rains in Ziguinchor. Throughout May, in the average 1 rainfall days, it receives 6mm (0.24") of precipitation. In Ziguinchor, during the entire year, the rain falls for 74 days and collects up to 1352mm (53.23") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Ziguinchor, Senegal, the average seawater temperature in May is 24.9°C (76.8°F).
Note: A person's cold intolerance, with sunshine, wind, and air temperature, are essential factors for enjoying swimming in 24.9°C (76.8°F) water. (FYI: The Olympic swimming competition requires a water temperature between 25°C (77°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).)
Daylight
In Ziguinchor, the average length of the day in May is 12h and 43min.
On the first day of May in Ziguinchor, sunrise is at 06:44 and sunset at 19:19. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:38 and sunset at 19:27 GMT.
Sunshine
February through May and
November, with an average of 9h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in Ziguinchor.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index are February through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: A maximum UV index of 12 in May translates into the following recommendations:
Undertake every vital safety procedure, as unprotected skin and eyes could sustain burns in no time. To the best of your ability, limit your exposure to the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. Sunglasses that ward off UVA and UVB rays play a pivotal role in reducing solar eye damage. Regardless of cloud cover, it's recommended to apply generously and reapply often a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, especially after swimming or any outdoor activity. Heads up! The reflection of sand and water notably intensifies UV rays from the Sun.