Bangkok,
Thailand goes through considerable meteorological changes during
May. This period witnesses a massive surge in rainfall, reaching up to 248mm (9.76"), spread across a significant 16 days, marking the real onset of the monsoon season. The city, despite the decline in temperature, continues to experience high warmth, hinting at the tropical climate of Thailand. On the other hand, increased cloud cover results in reduced sunshine duration. Residents eagerly anticipate drier weather conditions as the significant rainfall continues into
June.
Temperature
May begins with an average high-temperature of a hot 34.4°C (93.9°F), reflecting close similarity to the preceding month. Bangkok observes an average low-temperature of 26.3°C (79.3°F) during May nights.
Heat index
May's heat index is estimated at a blazing hot 51°C (123.8°F).
Take caution: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are probable. Heatstroke may be imminent with ongoing effort.
Understanding the heat index involves considering values for shaded locales with light wind. In the presence of direct sunshine, the heat index could be augmented by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', marries air temperature and humidity to produce a value illustrating perceived warmth. The effect is personal, with varied weather perceptions among individuals due to differences in body mass, stature, and physical activity. It is essential to realize that direct sunlight can escalate the perceived temperature, increasing the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values remain especially vital for babies and toddlers. Youngsters generally face more threats than adults given their lesser ability to sweat. Coupled with their larger skin surface relative to their small bodies and higher heat production due to their activities, they are more endangered.
Perspiration is essential for the human body; it facilitates cooling through the process of sweat evaporation. In circumstances of high air temperature and humidity (high heat index), the body's perspiration is restricted, heightening the feeling of warmth. Potential thermal conditions emerge as the body's heat gain outpaces its cooling mechanisms.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in May is 75%.
Rainfall
In Bangkok, Thailand, in May, it is raining for 16 days, with typically 248mm (9.76") of accumulated precipitation. In Bangkok, during the entire year, the rain falls for 128 days and collects up to 1648mm (64.88") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
May is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 29.9°C (85.8°F).
Note: For any water activity, the surface water temperatures in the range of 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are deemed excellent and incredibly pleasant for longer durations.
Daylight
In May, the average length of the day is 12h and 46min.
On the first day of May, sunrise is at 05:56 and sunset at 18:33. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:49 and sunset at 18:42 +07.
Sunshine
In Bangkok, the average sunshine in May is 7h.
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 excessive health risk from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: A maximum high UV index of 12 in May translates into the following recommendations:
Ensure every crucial precaution is taken. Individuals with light skin could experience burns in under 5 minutes. The Sun's UV radiation is most intense from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours. For holistic sun protection encompassing the eyes, ears, face, and neck, a wide-brim hat is key. Frequent reapplication of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is vital every two hours or directly after a swim or an outdoor workout. Watch out! Sand and water enhance the UV exposure you receive.