Itacoatiara • Statistics for May

May: The South Atlantic Roars to Life

May is the turning point. The average swell height reaches 5ft (1.5m), tied with September for the biggest of the year, and the period jumps to 11.0s thanks to powerful frontal lows tracking through the South Atlantic. Directional quality improves dramatically: S is the dominant swell at 36.5%, SSE adds 25.4%, and true SSW jumps to 9.2%. S and SSW combined now account for nearly 46% of all waves, putting Itacoatiara directly in the firing line. Bigger surf is prominent: the S direction puts 13.4% into the 5-6.5ft (1.5-2m) class and 4.9% into the 6.5-8ft (2-2.5m) class, with even a hint of 8ft+ (2.5m+). Wind quality is a bit lower at 57% because the SW/WSW onshore sector now contributes about 17.5% combined, but the ENE/E trade flow is still present, and clear sessions deliver long, powerful lines. Water is 23.0°C, air is 22.2°C, and the drier season at 2.61 mm/day marks the start of peak surf time.