Belém's weather shows a continued downward trend in rainfall as it moves into
May suggesting the arrival of the drier season. Compared to the past several months, May sees a significant decrease in rainfall giving the city a refreshing turn in climate. Despite the decreased rainfall, a high average temperature coupled with extensive humidity still reflects the city's dominantly tropical climate. The slightly warmer days are complemented nicely by fresh winds from the Atlantic venturing into the city. With lighter showers expected, this month is a great opportunity to undertake outdoor adventures, explore locals parks or simply take a stroll.
Temperature
The commencement of May in Belém notes an average high-temperature of a still tropical 31.3°C (88.3°F), exhibiting little difference from the previous month. The low-temperature average for Belém during May stands at an agreeable 22.6°C (72.7°F).
Heat index
For May, the heat index is estimated at a blazing hot 45°C (113°F).
Keep wary: Heat cramps along with heat exhaustion are expected. Heatstroke is a possible outcome of ongoing activity.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. A rise of up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the heat index could result from direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'felt air temperature', blends air temperature and moisture content to represent the felt temperature to humans. The effect is personal, with varied weather perceptions among individuals due to differences in body mass, stature, and physical activity. Direct exposure to the sun's rays can enhance the felt temperature, increasing the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely significant for babies and toddlers. Younglings are generally more in peril than adults due to their reduced perspiration. Coupled with a larger skin surface relative to their tiny bodies and greater heat production because of their activity, they become more at risk.
Perspiring is the body's way of cooling down, particularly by allowing sweat to evaporate and take the heat with it. Heightened relative humidity interferes with the body's usual cooling mechanism by reducing evaporation, subsequently decreasing the body's cooling rate and increasing the sensation of heat. If the body retains more heat than it can expel, the increasing temperature can lead to heat-related conditions.
Humidity
In May, the average relative humidity is 88%.
Rainfall
In Belém, during May, the rain falls for 23 days and regularly aggregates up to 306mm (12.05") of precipitation. Throughout the year, in Belém, there are 221 rainfall days, and 2922mm (115.04") of precipitation is accumulated.
Sea temperature
In Belém, the average seawater temperature in May is 28.5°C (83.3°F).
Note: Water temperature between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) provides warmth and pleasure, making water activities enjoyable for lengthened periods without feeling uncomfortable.
Daylight
In Belém, the average length of the day in May is 12h and 3min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:09 and sunset at 18:12. On the last day of May, in Belém,
Brazil, sunrise is at 06:10 and sunset at 18:13 -03.
Sunshine
The average sunshine in May in Belém is 5.9h.
UV index
January through May,
August through
December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index in Belém. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an ultimate health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: The maximum daily UV index of 12 in May converts into the following recommendations:
Put into action all important safeguards, unprotected skin may burn swiftly. The Sun emits the most powerful UV radiation between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sunlight during this period. Enhance your sun protection with tightly woven, yet airy clothing. Applying and reapplying liberally a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ every two hours, and straight after a swim or outdoor activity is recommended. Beware! Reflections from sand and water can intensify the Sun's UV radiation.