May weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

Stepping firmly into Mapaki's rainy season, May offers a refreshing reprieve from the preceding sun-drenched months. These seemingly perennial spells of rain refurbish Mapaki's natural beauty, showering life into every nook and cranny. May’s immediate successor, June, follows in the same wet footsteps, bringing more of the rejuvenating rainfall. Distinction of May is the significant jump in average rainfall to 105mm (4.13"), encapsulating the true essence of the monsoon. While the inclement weather may pose challenges, those who relish tropical rainstorms have a field day.

Temperature

The commencement of May indicates a gentle shift in the average high-temperature, receding from April's fiery hot 37.7°C (99.9°F) to a tropical 34.3°C (93.7°F). Mapaki anticipates an average minimum temperature of 23.8°C (74.8°F) in the month of May.

Heat index

Throughout May, the heat index is estimated at a life-threatening hot 52°C (125.6°F). On guard: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are predicted. Heatstroke is a potential hazard with continuous physical effort.
Note that heat index values are valued for light wind and location in the shade. Exposure to unobstructed sunshine could lead to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', is a composite of temperature and humidity figures to convey how warm it feels. Elements such as metabolic variations, pregnancy, and physical exertion can shape one's weather perception. Considering the impact of direct sunlight, it's possible for the heat index to surge by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Children frequently do not understand the need for recuperation and hydration. Thirst, being a late manifestation of dehydration, underlines the need to hydrate frequently, especially when engaging in prolonged physical exercises.
By perspiring, the human body can shed its excessive warmth since evaporated sweat cools it off. A surge in relative humidity can disrupt the body's normal cooling function by slowing evaporation, hence reducing the rate at which the body cools and intensifying the perception of heat. As the body accumulates more heat than it can release, body temperature goes up, increasing the risk of heat-related health issues.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in May in Mapaki is 78%.

Rainfall

In Mapaki, in May, it is raining for 24.2 days, with typically 105mm (4.13") of accumulated precipitation. In Mapaki, during the entire year, the rain falls for 225.8 days and collects up to 1471mm (57.91") of precipitation.

Daylight

The average length of the day in May is 12h and 32min.
On the first day of May in Mapaki, sunrise is at 06:31 and sunset at 18:57. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:27 and sunset at 19:03 GMT.

Sunshine

In May, the average sunshine in Mapaki is 7.7h.

UV index

In May, the average daily maximum UV index in Mapaki is 6. A UV Index value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index, 6 during May, leads to the following recommendations:
Implement precautions and maintain sun safety methods. Avoidance of sunburn is demanded. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight and seek shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, but remember that shade structures may not offer complete protection. Select sunglasses that boast both UVA and UVB protection to limit the adverse effects of the sun on the eyes.