May weather forecast
Chennai, India

The month of May in Chennai represents the heart of the hot season, where temperatures spike to 34.8°C (94.6°F), heroic in its intense heat. Along with the arrival of fiercer sun comes a dramatic surge in rain, lending an interesting juxtaposition of hot and wet weather. The gusty winds of this month assist in dispelling some heat, marginally improving the perceived temperature. Turquoise seas, blooming flowers, strong breezes signify this month’s weather, manifesting the full glory of tropical summer. In the journey of Chennai’s climate, May contributes its share with heated bravura.

Temperature

Chennai reaches its highest average temperatures in May, measuring 34.8°C (94.6°F) at the peak and 29.6°C (85.3°F) at the lowest.

Heat index

The average heat index in May is evaluated at a blazing hot 48°C (118.4°F). Be wary: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are highly anticipated. With continued activity, heatstroke is very likely.
Note that heat index values are valued for light wind and location in the shade. The heat index has the potential to rise by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sunshine exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', is calculated by taking the relative humidity value for a specific location and factoring it into the air temperature reading. The influence of weather is personal, with a diverse population experiencing it differently due to differences in body mass, stature, and degree of activity. In the direct sunlight, the weather's impact can be amplified, possibly boosting the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are largely significant for babies and toddlers. Children often miss understanding the importance of rest and rehydration. Thirst usually appears late during dehydration - therefore, maintaining hydration, particularly during long physical activities, is essential.
The human body normally cools itself by perspiration. Excessive warmth is eliminated from the body by evaporation of sweat. With a lot of moisture in the air, the evaporation process is not as effective, and the body does not cool down as efficiently, creating a perception of overheating. Overheating and dehydration threats arise when heat gain goes beyond what the body can comfortably shed.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in May in Chennai is 67%.

Rainfall

In Chennai, in May, it is raining for 5.9 days, with typically 23mm (0.91") of accumulated precipitation. In Chennai, during the entire year, the rain falls for 157.6 days and collects up to 823mm (32.4") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

With an average sea temperature of 29.5°C (85.1°F), May is the month with the warmest seawater.
Note: Swimming, diving, and other water activities in temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are highly enjoyable and provide prolonged comfort without unease.

Daylight

The average length of the day in May is 12h and 44min.
On the first day of May, sunrise is at 5:47 am and sunset at 6:24 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 5:41 am and sunset at 6:31 pm IST.

Sunshine

May has the most sunshine of the year in Chennai, with an average of 11.9h of sunshine.

UV index

April through July, with an average maximum UV index of 8, are months with the highest UV index in Chennai. A UV Index of 8 to 10 symbolizes a very high health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: A maximum UV index of 8 in May translates into the following recommendations:
Ensure you're always protected. Unprotected skin can get damaged in moments. The hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. have the most intense UV radiation. As much as possible, limit direct sun exposure during this period. For effective sun eye protection, rely on sunglasses certified for UVA and UVB resistance. Alert! The Sun's UV rays are heightened by the reflection of sand and water.