Phnom Penh
Weather by month
Current –

Phnom Penh Weather in May

May in Phnom Penh brings extremely high temperatures around 36°C (97°F) during the day, dropping to 27°C (81°F) at night, with quite a bit of rainfall expected, averaging around 157 mm (6.2 in) for the month.

Rainfall in Phnom Penh in May

Past climate data indicates that roughly 15 days will see rain, totalling around 157 mm (6.2 in) for the month. Individual showers can be quite heavy this month. A proper umbrella or rain jacket is worth having.

Temperature in Phnom Penh in May

In May, expect extremely high temperatures in Phnom Penh, with highs of 36°C (97°F) and lows of 27°C (81°F) at night. Indoor breaks or shaded spots can make the warmer part of the day much more comfortable. Nights are warm at 27°C (81°F), which can make sleeping uncomfortable. Keeping windows open or using a fan can help. A cold shower before bed is also a good way to cool down.

Sunshine in Phnom Penh in May

Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 203 hours of sun. These sunny conditions add to the overall experience.

Wind Speed in Phnom Penh in May

Average wind conditions reach 2 m/s (4 knots) in May. This creates comfortable weather with light winds that gently move vegetation. Keep in mind this is an average. Daily conditions range from near-calm to more noticeable wind.

May in Phnom Penh has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.

Phnom Penh Temperature in May

Min Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Max Temperature
36°C (97°F)
Chance of Rain
49%
Precipitation
157 mm (6.2 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
77%
Windspeed
2 m/s (4 knots)
Sunshine
203 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Phnom Penh Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Phnom Penh - and find the best time to visit.

Historical weather records for Phnom Penh in May

Browse day-by-day weather records for Phnom Penh spanning 38 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Phnom Penh historical weather extremes in May

According to our 24 years of weather records for Phnom Penh, the following extremes were recorded between 2002 and 2026.

  • The warmest day in May was on May 1, 2024, with a maximum of 41°C (106°F).
  • The coldest May day was on May 11, 2003, with a maximum of 26°C (79°F).
  • Phnom Penh registered its coldest May night on May 24, 2021, with temperatures dropping to 23°C (73°F).

Best Places in Cambodia in May

Find out more about the weather in Cambodia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Cambodia in May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Phnom Penh in May

Hot weather in May means keeping cool is the priority. Loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics work best. Pack plenty of shorts, tank tops, and breathable shirts. Don't forget a hat, swimwear, and comfortable sandals. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Phnom Penh in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    8/10
  • Camping
    7/10

Phnom Penh 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Phnom Penh

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.