May Weather in Cooktown, Australia

Last updated: February 26, 2025

In May, Cooktown, Australia experiences a delightful transition with maximum temperatures reaching 29°C (85°F) and an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). The nights cool down to a pleasant minimum of 18°C (65°F), offering comfortable evenings. However, be prepared for occasional showers, as the month sees a total precipitation amount of 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 16 days, resulting in a humidity level of 81% that creates a lush, verdant landscape. This month is ideal for exploring Cooktown's natural beauty, albeit with a chance of rain to keep the scenery vibrant and fresh.

May Temperature in Cooktown

In Cooktown, Australia, May marks a transition to milder temperatures, with minimums dropping to a comfortable 18°C (65°F) and averages settling at 24°C (76°F). As the hotter months fade, the maximum temperatures also decline to a pleasant 29°C (85°F), making the month ideal for outdoor activities without the sweltering heat. This period showcases a noticeable shift from the sweltering temperatures of early summer, providing a refreshing respite. As the days become cooler, visitors can enjoy the stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture, all while basking in the mild, enjoyable climate that May has to offer.

May Weather in Cooktown: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Cooktown, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec818180797673737374778081
Data source: Temperature data for Cooktown generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Cooktown

May in Cooktown, Australia, marks a notable transition as precipitation amounts drop significantly to 62 mm (2.4 in), following the much wetter months of earlier in the year. This reduction is accompanied by 16 days of rainfall, a decline from the higher counts in January through April. While May’s showers are lighter and fewer, they pave the way for the region’s dry season, which continues into June, where just 38 mm (1.5 in) is recorded. This month’s precipitation reflects an overall trend: as the year progresses towards the dry winter months, both the volume and frequency of rainfall tend to decrease, highlighting Cooktown's unique tropical climate cycles.

May Precipitation Trends in Cooktown

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Cooktown, with values for each month alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37927030311862382717214943181
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Cooktown

In Cooktown, Australia, May experiences a humidity level of 81%, maintaining the trend from the previous months of March and April, which both recorded the same level. This slight variability in humidity reflects a generally stable atmospheric condition in the region during late autumn. As the year progresses, humidity typically shows a gradual decline, with June dipping to 80% and July dropping further to 74%. Overall, while May’s humidity remains high, it marks a transition towards the drier months ahead, illustrating the unique climatic patterns that characterize Cooktown throughout the year.

May Average Humidity in Cooktown

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Cooktown, with May's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how May's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%81%82%82%81%80%75%78%76%76%77%77%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Cooktown

In May, Cooktown experiences a very high UV Index of 10, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This marks a slight decrease from the extreme levels seen earlier in the year, where indices reached as high as 16 in February. With a burn time of approximately 15 minutes, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant, especially as the UV levels remain significant in the approaching winter months. It's essential to understand these trends to stay safe while enjoying the stunning outdoor scenery of this beautiful region. For more detailed information, please visit Cooktown UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Cooktown for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Cooktown in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15161513108101214151516
Data source: Cooktown May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Cooktown

In Cooktown, Australia, May shines brightly with 283 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful transition into the cooler months. As autumn unfolds, the trend reveals a steady increase in daylight, peaking in October and November with 319 and 320 hours, respectively. This warm spell in May sits just above the previous months, suggesting a lingering glow of summer as the days gradually shorten. Following this peak, residents can expect slightly reduced sunlight in June, but with plenty of sunny days ahead in the following months, Cooktown maintains its reputation as a sunny paradise. It’s a beautiful time to embrace the outdoors, showcasing nature in its vibrant glory under the bountiful sun.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Cooktown: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Cooktown experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec218h247h271h281h283h254h276h289h294h319h320h315h
Data source: Cooktown May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Cooktown During May

As spring unfolds in Cooktown, Australia, May emerges as a shining star in the weather calendar, boasting a 54% chance of sunny days. This marks a significant increase from previous months, with the likelihood of sunshine jumping from 28% in April to a refreshing 54%. Following the trend of this sunshine-friendly month, October showcases similar bliss with a 55% chance, suggesting that both early and late months of the year are prime for basking in the sun. Comparatively, the chances remain lower during the sweltering summer months, with January and February resting at just 7% and 13%, respectively. Thus, if you're aiming for warm, sunny weather in Cooktown, May is undoubtedly one of your best bets!

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Cooktown

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Cooktown throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Cooktown experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7%13%31%28%54%40%44%44%37%55%46%39%
Data source: Cooktown May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Cooktown in May

In Cooktown, Australia, daylight duration exhibits a rhythmic pattern throughout the year, reflecting the transition from summer to winter. From January to March, residents enjoy a generous 12 hours of daylight, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life. As April arrives, daylight begins to wane, dipping to 11 hours and continuing at that level through the winter months of May to August. Interestingly, as spring approaches in September, daylight remains steady at 11 hours, hinting at a gradual shift towards longer days. By October, daylight extends back to 12 hours, leading the way into the sunnier months, culminating in a peak of 13 hours in December. This cyclical variation not only enhances the natural beauty of the region but also enriches the opportunities for outdoor adventures year-round.

Average Daylight Hours in Cooktown for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Cooktown throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 55m12h 35m12h 9m11h 43m11h 22m11h 12m11h 17m11h 35m11h 59m12h 26m12h 49m13h
Data source: Cooktown daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Cooktown

In Cooktown, Australia, the month of May ushers in a noticeable shift in wind dynamics, showcasing an average wind speed of 7.3 m/s (16 mph), the highest in the first half of the year. While the preceding months like January and February experience gentler breezes, with speeds of 4.2 m/s (9 mph) and 3.3 m/s (7 mph) respectively, the winds gradually strengthen, hitting a peak in April at 5.6 m/s (12 mph). This upward trend reaches a crescendo in May, not only making it a pivotal month for wind enthusiasts but also perfectly setting the stage for the slightly diminished, yet still robust winds of August and September, which reflect similar average speeds of around 7.2 m/s (16 mph) and 7.7 m/s (17 mph). Overall, May stands out as a crescendo in the Cooktown wind calendar, a precursor to the milder breezes that follow as the year progresses.

Average May Wind Speed in Cooktown

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Cooktown, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.23.35.05.67.3 m/s5.85.77.27.74.35.14.6
Data source: Cooktown May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Cooktown Compares to Other Months

The weather in Cooktown 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 Cooktown and find detailed weather information for every month.

When comparing the weather in May and January, several notable differences arise. May typically has milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). In contrast, January features warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), averaging at 27°C (81°F). Additionally, January experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 379 mm (14.9 in) over 22 days, compared to May's 62 mm (2.4 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels remain similar, around 80-81%, making both months feel quite tropical. For more detailed insights, you can check Cooktown weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, it’s clear that February is significantly warmer, with average temperatures peaking at 27°C (82°F) and reaching a maximum of 36°C (97°F), compared to May's milder averages of 24°C (76°F) and a max of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, February experiences much higher precipitation, with 270 mm (10.6 in) over 20 days, compared to May's 62 mm (2.4 in) over 16 days. Interestingly, despite the differences in temperature and rainfall, both months maintain a similar humidity level of 81%. For more detailed information about February weather specifically, you can check out Cooktown weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, May tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). However, March experiences higher temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and peak temperatures reaching up to 34°C (94°F) on average. Notably, March also sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 303 mm (11.9 in) over 25 days, compared to May's 62 mm (2.4 in) over just 16 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, around 81-82%. For a more detailed look at the weather in March, you can visit Cooktown weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. April experiences generally warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (71°F) and a high of 33°C (91°F), resulting in an average of 26°C (79°F). In contrast, May sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), leading to an average of 24°C (76°F). Additionally, April faces significantly more rainfall, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over 17 days, while May receives only 62 mm (2.4 in) over 16 days, highlighting a shift towards drier conditions as the months progress. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with April at 82% and May at 81%. For more detailed insights into April weather patterns, you can visit Cooktown weather in April.

May and June in Cooktown exhibit relatively mild and humid weather. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences more precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over 16 days, resulting in a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, June sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum still at 18°C (65°F) but with an average of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation decreases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over 13 days, while humidity stays relatively stable at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Cooktown weather in June.

May and July present a contrast in weather dynamics, despite their similar temperature ranges. In May, temperatures average around 24°C (76°F), with a maximum of 29°C (85°F), coupled with higher humidity at 81% and frequent rainfall totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over 16 days. In contrast, July sees a slight dip in average temperature to about 23°C (73°F), with maximums reaching 27°C (82°F), but experiences significantly less precipitation—only 27 mm (1.1 in) over just 8 days—and a lower humidity of 74%. This makes July a generally drier and slightly cooler month compared to May. For more specific weather details, you can check Cooktown weather in July.

In comparing the weather between May and August, both months feature similar maximum temperatures, peaking at 29°C (85°F). However, May tends to be warmer overall, with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F) compared to August's average of 23°C (73°F). Additionally, May is significantly wetter, experiencing 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 16 days, while August sees much less rain, with only 17 mm (0.7 in) over just 5 days. The humidity level in May is slightly higher at 81%, compared to August's 77%. For more detailed information about August weather, you can check Cooktown weather in August.

In May, the weather tends to be warmer and more humid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). This month also experiences relatively high precipitation, averaging 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 16 days. In contrast, September offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while the average remains the same at 24°C (75°F). Additionally, September is much drier, with only 21 mm (0.8 in) of rain falling over just 5 days, and a lower humidity of 76%. For more specific information about September weather, you can visit Cooktown weather in September.

In May, temperatures in the region typically range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 16 days, along with high humidity levels reaching 81%. In contrast, October brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 25°C (78°F). The month is generally drier, experiencing only 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain over just 6 days, and humidity decreases to 76%. For more details on specific conditions in October, you can visit Cooktown weather in October.

In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a comfortable maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, creating a humid atmosphere with 81% humidity. In contrast, November brings warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 21°C (71°F) and a high of 36°C (98°F), averaging 26°C (80°F). The month sees less rainfall, totaling 43 mm (1.7 in) over 11 days and slightly lower humidity at 77%. For a closer look at November weather conditions, you can check out Cooktown weather in November.

In May, temperatures average around 24°C (76°F), with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). The month experiences moderate rainfall, with about 62 mm (2.4 in) spread over 16 days, and humidity levels sitting at 81%. In contrast, December presents a warmer climate, with an average temperature of 27°C (82°F), ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 180 mm (7.1 in) over 15 days, with slightly lower humidity at 77%. For more details, you can check Cooktown weather in December.

Compare Cooktown's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Cooktown

As May rolls into Cooktown, the weather showcases a delightful transition into milder temperatures, perfect for outdoor exploration. With average highs around 29°C (85°F) and increased humidity at 81%, the days are pleasantly warm, though the evenings tend to cool down. This month sees a rise in rainfall with about 62 mm (2.4 in) spread over 16 days, bringing a refreshing contrast to the drier months preceding it. Unlike the scorching summer heat, May offers a more comfortable climate, making it ideal for those looking to experience Cooktown's vibrant flora and fauna. For a deeper dive into seasonal trends, check out Cooktown Climate.