May weather forecast
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

The rapid changes in weather continue in May, as the city of Polonnaruwa transitions from the blazing heat of April to cooler and more pacifying conditions. The weather turns agreeable, although the high humidity makes the climate feel warmer than it actually is. May features moderate rainfall, and the interlude of mild weather continues into June with minimal fluctuation in temperature.

Temperature

May records an average high-temperature of a still tropical 34.2°C (93.6°F), indicating a minor variation from the preceding month. Polonnaruwa anticipates an average minimum temperature of 24.5°C (76.1°F) in the month of May.

Heat index

Throughout May, the heat index is evaluated at a life-threatening hot 49°C (120.2°F). Keep alert: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are probable. Heatstroke is a potential danger with continued physical activity.
When considering the heat index, it's pivotal to note it is for shade and mild wind conditions. Facing direct sunlight may hike up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', ties air temperature with relative humidity to produce the perceived temperature sensation. The experience of temperature can be subjective, varying based on the individual's activity and heat perception, influenced by factors like wind, attire, and metabolic variations. When you're directly under the sun's rays, remember that the heat index may surge by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for babies and toddlers. Young individuals usually face greater risks than adults as their sweat production is less. Also, their larger skin surface relative to their small bodies and the high heat generation due to their activity contributes to their vulnerability.
The process of perspiration is vital for the human body to get rid of excess warmth by allowing sweat to evaporate. In high relative humidity, the body's ability to evaporate heat is diminished, resulting in a heightened feeling of warmth. When the body's heat gain surpasses its removal capacity, body temperature starts to climb, leading to potential heat-related ailments.

Humidity

In May, the average relative humidity in Polonnaruwa is 72%.

Rainfall

In Polonnaruwa, during May, the rain falls for 17.4 days and regularly aggregates up to 83mm (3.27") of precipitation. Throughout the year, there are 196.8 rainfall days, and 943mm (37.13") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

In May, the average length of the day is 12h and 29min.
On the first day of May in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, sunrise is at 05:50 and sunset at 18:15. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:47 and sunset at 18:20 +0530.

Sunshine

In Polonnaruwa, the average sunshine in May is 11.2h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are February through October, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: The maximum daily UV index, 7 in May, converts into the following recommendations:
Ward off overexposure. Defence against solar harm is crucial. UV radiation from the Sun is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sunlight during this period. For optimum UV protection, wear sun-resistant attire complemented with a hat and quality shades.