Last updated: February 26, 2025
May in Cairns, Australia, brings a delightful average temperature of 22°C (72°F), making it a comfortable time to explore this tropical paradise. The maximum temperature can reach up to 27°C (81°F), while the cooler evenings dip to a refreshing 13°C (56°F). Although May sees 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, the lush landscapes thrive with vibrant greenery. With a humidity level of 78%, it's essential to embrace the tropical climate while enjoying the stunning natural beauty that Cairns offers during this enchanting month.
In May, Cairns, Australia, experiences a delightful shift in temperatures as the region transitions toward winter. With minimum temperatures dipping to 13°C (56°F) and average highs reaching 27°C (81°F), the weather becomes notably cooler compared to the hotter summer months. This makes May an ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the stunning landscapes or enjoy the vibrant coastal life. The average temperature settles around 22°C (72°F), presenting a comfortable climate that invites leisurely activities without the sweltering heat typical of earlier months. As the month progresses, the cooler nights and pleasant days create a charming atmosphere, perfect for experiencing the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.
In May, Cairns experiences a marked decline in precipitation, with only 51 mm (2.0 in) of rain falling over 13 days. This significant drop follows the wetter months of January through April, where rainfall volumes were substantially higher—January alone brought 400 mm (15.7 in). As the region transitions into the drier winter period, May’s totals reflect a shift towards more stable weather, setting the stage for the relatively dry months ahead in June and July, which see even less rainfall, at 37 mm (1.5 in) and 33 mm (1.3 in) respectively. This trend indicates a gradual end to the wet season, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy Cairns' scenic beauty under clearer skies.
In Cairns, Australia, May marks a gentle transition in humidity levels as the season shifts. With an average humidity of 78%, May showcases a slight decrease from the wetter months of early year, peaking at 83% in March. This decline hints at the arrival of drier conditions as winter draws closer. Interestingly, the humidity holds steady at 78% in both May and June, suggesting a brief stabilizing phase before the more significant drop to 71% in July. Overall, May serves as a pleasant reprieve with reduced humidity that hints at the impending cooler months while still maintaining Cairns' tropical charm.
As we transition into May, Cairns, Australia experiences a very high UV Index of 10, with a burn time of just 15 minutes, signaling that sun safety remains crucial. This month marks a slight decrease from the extreme levels seen in the earlier months—January through April—with UV Index values soaring as high as 16. It's interesting to note that while the heat of summer fades, the potential for skin damage remains significant. Following May, the UV Index dips slightly in June, reflecting a period where sun protection continues to be essential. Whether you're enjoying the tropical outdoors or lounging by the beach, ensuring you're protected against UV radiation is key. For detailed information on the UV intensity throughout the year, check out Cairns UV Index.
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In Cairns, Australia, May shines with an impressive 277 hours of sunshine, continuing the trend of increasingly bright days as we transition from the start of the year. Following the sunny peak of March and April, which each boasted over 280 hours, May maintains a generous amount of sunlight, though slightly less than its immediate predecessors. The month showcases a harmonious blend of warmth and light, setting the stage for the sunny months ahead. As winter approaches, Cairns delivers a delightful contrast with its vibrant sunshine, making May an ideal time for outdoor adventures and soaking in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
As Cairns transitions from the wet season to the dry, May marks a notable increase in sunny weather, with a 57% chance of clear skies. This surge follows the relatively overcast months of January through April, where sunshine chances linger below 35%. Interestingly, this sunny trend continues into the preceding months of June and July, highlighting May as a sweet spot for outdoor activities and exploration. As winter approaches, the likelihood of sunshine only dips slightly, reinforcing May as a prime time to enjoy Cairns' beautiful landscapes under the sun.
In Cairns, Australia, the enchanting shift of daylight duration throughout the year reveals a gentle ebb and flow of sunlight. January kicks off with 13 hours of daylight, gradually tapering to 12 hours in February and March, before dipping to 11 hours in both April and May. This rhythm holds steady through the winter months of June, July, and August, maintaining that consistent 11-hour threshold. As spring approaches, daylight begins to reclaim ground, with October and November experiencing a return to 12 hours. Finally, December wraps up the year with daylight stretching back to a vibrant 13 hours. This cyclical trend showcases Cairns' unique tropical climate, where daylight lingers, creating a canvas for outdoor adventures and sun-soaked days year-round.
In Cairns, Australia, May marks a noticeable increase in wind activity, with an average wind speed of 4.1 m/s (9 mph), making it one of the breezier months of the year. This is a delightful shift from the lighter breezes of early months like January and February, which see averages of just 3.1 m/s (7 mph) and 2.4 m/s (5 mph), respectively. From April’s 3.6 m/s (8 mph), May's winds climb to their peak before a slight decline in June. The upward trend continues into the later months, with June, July, and October reflecting calmer breezes, suggesting May stands out as a transitional month where the winds pick up, creating a refreshing atmosphere perfect for exploring Cairns' stunning outdoor landscapes. As the year progresses, particularly in the late spring and early autumn months, wind speeds average a comfortable 3.0 m/s (7 mph) to 4.3 m/s (10 mph), which add to the region's allure as a destination for adventure seekers.
The weather in Cairns changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Cairns and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present distinct weather patterns. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a comfortable average of 22°C (72°F), with a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, and humidity levels sit at 78%. In contrast, January boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F), an average temperature of 26°C (78°F), and a maximum reaching 33°C (92°F). However, it also experiences significantly higher rainfall, totaling 400 mm (15.7 in) over 21 days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 79%. For more detailed information on January weather, check out Cairns weather in January.
May and February exhibit quite distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F) and relatively moderate precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in) spread over 13 days. In contrast, February offers warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a scorching maximum of 35°C (95°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). However, this month also experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 287 mm (11.3 in) over 21 days. Humidity levels in both months are similar, with May at 78% and February at 81%. For more detailed weather information, you can refer to this link: Cairns weather in February.
May and March exhibit distinct weather characteristics, showcasing a shift in climate as the year progresses. March tends to be warmer with averages around 25°C (78°F) and maximum temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F). In contrast, May sees a cooler average of 22°C (72°F) with maximums peaking at 27°C (81°F). Additionally, March experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 289 mm (11.4 in) across 24 days, compared to May's 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 13 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with March at 83% and May slightly lower at 78%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Cairns weather in March.
Comparing the weather in May and April shows some notable differences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). This month experiences less precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, and has a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, April features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F), an average of 24°C (75°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). However, it experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 163 mm (6.4 in) across 15 days, while maintaining a slightly higher humidity of 80%. For more details on April weather, visit Cairns weather in April.
In comparing the weather between May and June, both months share a similar temperature range, with minimum temperatures around 13°C (56°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F). However, May tends to be warmer overall, averaging 22°C (72°F) compared to June’s average of 20°C (68°F). Additionally, May experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, while June sees 37 mm (1.5 in) across 11 days. The humidity remains consistent in both months at 78%, contributing to a tropical feel in the region. For more details on June weather, you can check Cairns weather in June.
When comparing the weather in May and July, we see noteworthy differences. May enjoys slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while July sees a cooler average of 20°C (68°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation levels are higher in May, with 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, compared to July's 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 7 days. Furthermore, May experiences higher humidity at 78%, whereas July’s humidity is somewhat lower at 71%. Overall, May feels warmer and wetter, while July offers a cooler and drier climate. For more detailed insights, check Cairns weather in July.
In May, the weather is generally warmer than in August, with average temperatures reaching 22°C (72°F) compared to August's average of 20°C (68°F). May experiences higher maximum temperatures of 27°C (81°F) versus August's 29°C (84°F), though it has a slightly higher humidity level at 78% compared to 75% in August. Additionally, May sees more precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, while August has significantly less with only 19 mm (0.7 in) over just 4 days. For more details on August weather, you can check Cairns weather in August.
May and September present similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing maximums around 27°C (81°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer on average at 22°C (72°F) compared to September's average of 21°C (70°F). In terms of precipitation, May is notably wetter, with 51 mm (2.0 in) falling over 13 days, while September enjoys drier conditions with just 21 mm (0.8 in) over only 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in May at 78%, compared to September's 72%. For more details on September weather, visit Cairns weather in September.
In May, the weather is characterized by average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences higher humidity levels at 78%, along with significant rainfall, averaging 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 13 days. Conversely, October sees slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums at 15°C (59°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). October also benefits from lower precipitation, with only 35 mm (1.4 in) recorded over just 5 days and a more comfortable humidity level of 73%. For more details on the climate, you can check Cairns weather in October.
May and November exhibit distinct weather characteristics in Cairns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 13 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 78%. In contrast, November sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (94°F), averaging 24°C (76°F). Precipitation drops to 38 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 74%. For more insights on this month's climate, check Cairns weather in November.
May and December showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a pleasant average of 22°C (72°F), reaching up to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). The month is marked by relatively lower precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, with humidity levels at 78%. In stark contrast, December boasts warmer temperatures with a minimum of 21°C (70°F), an average of 26°C (78°F), and a high of 33°C (92°F). The rainfall in December is significantly greater, with 166 mm (6.5 in) falling over 15 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 75%. For a more detailed look at December's weather, you can visit Cairns weather in December.
As May arrives in Cairns, it ushers in a noticeable shift in weather patterns, offering a delightful blend of warm days and cooler nights. This month typically experiences milder temperatures compared to the sweltering heat of summer, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. While the chance of rain increases slightly with around half of the month seeing precipitation, the humidity remains high, yet it's more bearable than in the hotter months. If you're planning a visit, you'll find May to be a sweet spot between the hotter seasons, perfect for exploring all that Cairns has to offer. For more detailed insights into the region's weather, check out Cairns Climate.