May 10 is considered an autumn day in South Africa because South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, where May falls in the autumn season. Literally, in May the climate shifts into autumn with typical natural changes like cooler temperatures and shedding leaves. Specifically, May 10, 1994, also holds symbolic significance as the day Nelson Mandela took oath as the first black president of South Africa, marking the establishment of the first democratic, non-racial government. This day metaphorically represents a rebirth or a new beginning for the country, akin to the process of autumn where old leaves fall away and new growth begins. Thus, May 10 in South Africa is known both as an actual autumn day in terms of seasonality and symbolically as a day representing transformation and hope.

In terms of weather, May in South Africa generally features mild to cool temperatures, ranging from about 8°C to 22°C (46°F to 72°F) depending on the region, with mild and dry conditions making it a comfortable autumn period across the country.