Sandakan
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Sandakan Weather in May

May in Sandakan averages 34°C (93°F) during the day and 24°C (75°F) at night. May is part of the rainy season, with around 249 mm (9.8 in) of rainfall and frequent showers.

Rainfall in Sandakan in May

Sandakan is in the rainy season in May, with rain on around 14 days and an average of 249 mm (9.8 in). The rain this month falls heavily when it arrives. Late afternoons in particular can see strong showers, so waterproofs are worth keeping handy.

Temperature in Sandakan in May

Temperatures in Sandakan in May top out at 34°C (93°F) and drop to 24°C (75°F) overnight. Sunshine and humidity can make it feel even warmer than the raw temperature suggests. With overnight lows of 24°C (75°F), evenings and nights remain warm. Light clothing and an open window or fan can help you sleep comfortably.

Sunshine in Sandakan in May

The city usually sees around 202 hours of sunlight, indicating many sunny days despite it being the rainy season.

Wind Speed in Sandakan in May

Average wind conditions reach 1 m/s (2 knots) in May. This creates generally peaceful weather with subtle air movement. Remember this is an average: some days are windless while others have noticeable or very gentle breezes.

For more travel ideas, our weather planner can help you explore destinations around the world.

Sandakan Temperature in May

Min Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Max Temperature
34°C (93°F)
Chance of Rain
46%
Precipitation
249 mm (9.8 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
81%
Windspeed
1 m/s (2 knots)
Sunshine
202 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Sandakan Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Sandakan typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 34°C (93°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 25°C (77°F).

Average temperatures in May

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in May

Historical weather records for Sandakan in May

Browse day-by-day weather records for Sandakan spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Sandakan historical weather extremes in May

Based on 33 years of weather observations (1993-2026), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Sandakan.

  • Sandakan recorded its highest May temperature of 36°C (97°F) on May 18, 1999.
  • Sandakan experienced its chilliest May day on May 12, 1999, reaching only 28°C (82°F).
  • The coldest night in May in Sandakan was on May 5, 2009, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F).

Best Places in Malaysia in May

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

Pack for serious heat in Sandakan in May. Prioritize clothing that breathes and doesn't cling or stick. Lightweight cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal. A wide hat provides welcome shade. It's going to pour! Pack a good poncho and prepare for very wet conditions. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Sandakan in May

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

  • Swimming
    8/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    6/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Sandakan 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Sandakan

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.