May Weather in Calgary, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

Experience the dynamic weather of Calgary, Canada in May, where temperatures can soar to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), while averaging around a comfortable 10°C (51°F). The month witnesses a notable chill, with minimum temperatures dipping to -6°C (22°F), showcasing the unpredictable nature of spring. Expect about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, often accompanied by a humidity level of 80%, adding a refreshing touch to the warming days. Whether you're enjoying the vibrant blooms or bracing for cooler spells, May in Calgary offers a blend of seasonal contrasts that keeps the experience exciting.

May Temperature in Calgary

In Calgary, Canada, May marks a welcomed transition from the frigid winter months to the warmth of summer. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), May offers an average of 10°C (51°F), highlighting a significant warming trend as the month progresses. This month stands out as a delightful shift, especially following April's chillier averages. As the city shakes off the remnants of snow and frost, residents can look forward to sunnier days, making May an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the lush greenery that emerges.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Calgary, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec191327375058636252382920
Data source: Temperature data for Calgary 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 Calgary

In May, Calgary experiences a significant increase in precipitation, with 62 mm (2.4 in) recorded over 10 days of rain. This uptick marks a noticeable leap from the 38 mm (1.5 in) experienced in April, as the city transitions into the wetter spring season. The rainfall not only nourishes the blooming flora but also sets the stage for the lush greenery characteristic of the warmer months ahead. Interestingly, May’s precipitation is a precursor to the even heavier rain in June, which typically sees 85 mm (3.3 in) over 12 days, further underscoring how this month acts as a pivotal bridge between spring and summer in Calgary's climate pattern.

May Precipitation Trends in Calgary

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Calgary, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82927386285694343312624
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Calgary

May in Calgary sees humidity levels averaging 80%, marking a noticeable shift from the winter's damp extremes. Following the peak of 93% in February and 91% in January, the gradual decline through the spring months—91% in January to 84% in April—suggests a transition toward drier conditions. Although May still carries a sense of moisture in the air, it signals a move away from the highest humidity levels, as the city heads into the summer months, where June sees a drop to 79%. This trend reflects Calgary's unique climate, blending crispness with a hint of warmth as the city blossoms into summer.

May Average Humidity in Calgary

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Calgary, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%93%88%84%80%79%80%77%74%80%86%92%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Calgary

As spring unfolds in Calgary, May brings a significant rise in the UV Index, reaching a striking 8 and marking it as a very high exposure category. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to take the necessary precautions against UV radiation. This increase is part of a clear upward trend throughout the months; while January and February see lower indices of 2 and 3, respectively, the values escalate sharply as the seasons change. By April, the UV Index climbs to 6, paving the way for May's peak. As June and July continue to maintain similar high levels, it's crucial to stay vigilant and protect your skin. For additional information on UV patterns and safe exposure practices, check out Calgary UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Calgary for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Calgary 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec234688987421
Data source: Calgary 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 Calgary

As May unfolds in Calgary, the city basks in the glow of 318 hours of sunshine, marking a significant increase from the preceding months. This uplifting rise is part of a broader trend where daylight hours gradually climb from the depths of winter. After a slow start with just 140 hours in January, the sun's warmth begins to emerge steadily through spring, culminating in an impressive peak in July with 382 hours. May's sunny disposition is a delightful reminder of the bright days ahead, as Calgarians eagerly anticipate the long, sun-kissed summer that follows. With hours of sunshine tapering slightly in late summer and autumn, May truly stands as a vibrant transition into the seasons of warmth and light.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Calgary: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Calgary 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec140h180h256h287h318h347h382h331h255h223h166h163h
Data source: Calgary May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Calgary During May

As we transition into May in Calgary, the likelihood of sunny weather presents a mixed bag, with a 37% chance of sunshine. This marks a noticeable dip from the preceding month of April, which enjoys a more optimistic 49% chance of clear skies. Interestingly, May sits just above the winter months like February at 28% and January at 43%, yet significantly below the sunnier summer months that follow, such as June and July, where the sun shines down 54% and 57% of the time respectively. Overall, while May may not be the sunniest month, it hints at the imminent warmth that summer brings, making it a transitional period that balances lingering spring showers with the promise of brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Calgary

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Calgary 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 Calgary experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec43%28%46%49%37%54%58%47%47%50%42%32%
Data source: Calgary May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Calgary in May

As May arrives in Calgary, the city basks in a delightful 15 hours of daylight, marking a significant increase from the 13 hours of April. This trend reflects the gradual lengthening of days as spring transitions into summer, showcasing a vibrant shift in the daily rhythm of life. Following a steady climb from 8 hours in January to 10 in February and 11 in March, the daylight hours in Calgary create an uplifting atmosphere, encouraging outdoor activities and gatherings. This upward trajectory continues into early summer, peaking at 16 hours in June before gradually tapering off in the following months. Embracing the long, sunlit days of May, Calgarians can enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings, taking full advantage of the vibrant energy that longer daylight brings.

Average Daylight Hours in Calgary for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Calgary throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 28m10h 1m11h 56m13h 53m15h 35m16h 27m15h 58m14h 26m12h 33m10h 37m8h 53m7h 58m
Data source: Calgary daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Calgary

In Calgary during May, the wind whispers with an average speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), maintaining a gentle breeze that mirrors the transitional spirit of spring. As we observe the past few months, it's apparent that the wind speeds have shown remarkable consistency, hovering around the 3 m/s mark from January through April. This slight dip in June to 2.8 m/s suggests a calming transition into summer. Interestingly, the wind patterns unveil a notable decrease throughout the warmer months of July and August, dipping to the lowest average of 2.4 m/s (5 mph). Overall, the May winds in Calgary serve as a refreshing herald of the vibrant energy of summer ahead, while also hinting at the region's dynamic weather patterns.

Average May Wind Speed in Calgary

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Calgary, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.22.83.23.03.1 m/s2.82.42.62.73.03.12.8
Data source: Calgary May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Calgary Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a warm 29°C (85°F) during the day, averaging around 10°C (51°F). This month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days, with humidity hovering around 80%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -36°C (-32°F) and peaking at just 11°C (52°F), averaging -7°C (20°F). Precipitation is scarce in January, totaling only 8 mm (0.3 in) over just 2 days, and the humidity is slightly higher at 91%. For more details on January weather, you can check Calgary weather in January.

The weather in May is markedly milder compared to February, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a warm 29°C (85°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). In contrast, February is much colder, with temperatures typically fluctuating between -35°C (-31°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), averaging at -10°C (14°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation with 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 10 days, whereas February sees only 29 mm (1.2 in) across 8 days. Notably, humidity levels are higher in February at 93%, compared to May’s 80%. For more details, you can check Calgary weather in February.

May weather in Calgary showcases a significant transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of late spring. With average temperatures around 10°C (51°F) and highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F), May experiences a dramatic increase compared to March, which has an average temperature of -3°C (27°F) and can plunge to lows of -31°C (-23°F). Precipitation in May totals 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 10 days, making it wetter than March's 27 mm (1.1 in) over just 6 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in May at 80%, compared to the higher 88% in March. For more details on March weather, visit Calgary weather in March.

Comparing the weather in May and April reveals a notable shift towards warmth and increased humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F) and a humidity level of 80%. This contrasts sharply with April, which sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of 26°C (80°F), averaging just 3°C (37°F) and a slightly higher humidity of 84%. Additionally, May experiences more precipitation at 62 mm (2.4 in) over 10 days, compared to April's 38 mm (1.5 in) over 9 days. For more detailed information, check out Calgary weather in April.

May and June weather present a notable transition, with June typically being warmer and slightly wetter. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a more comfortable maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging around 10°C (51°F). The precipitation level is moderate, with 62 mm (2.4 in) falling over 10 days, and humidity is relatively high at 80%.

In contrast, June heats up, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and soaring to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), resulting in an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 85 mm (3.3 in) occurring over 12 days, while humidity stays comparable at 79%. Therefore, while both months experience substantial moisture, June offers a stark increase in temperature, making it a much warmer month overall. For more detailed information, you can check Calgary weather in June.

In May, temperatures in Calgary range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a pleasant maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging around 10°C (51°F). The month experiences approximately 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, with humidity consistently at 80%. In contrast, July brings warmer weather, with minimum temperatures starting at 5°C (41°F) and reaching highs of 36°C (98°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). The rainfall slightly increases to 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, while humidity levels remain steady at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Calgary weather in July.

May and August present distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a comfortable average of 10°C (51°F), with highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F). This month also sees a significant amount of rain, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 10 days, combined with higher humidity levels at 80%. In contrast, August warms up considerably, with minimum temperatures starting at 3°C (37°F) and peaking at a maximum of 38°C (100°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). The precipitation in August is lower, at 43 mm (1.7 in) across just 7 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 77%. For a more detailed overview of what to expect, you can check Calgary weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition between spring and autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a warm 29°C (85°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month sees approximately 62 mm (2.4 inches) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 80%. In contrast, September enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging slightly higher at 11°C (52°F). Rainfall is reduced, totaling around 43 mm (1.7 inches) across 9 days, and humidity decreases to 74%. This comparison highlights May's wetter and more humid conditions against September's drier and warmer atmosphere. For more details, check out Calgary weather in September.

In May, temperatures in Calgary range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a warm 29°C (85°F) during the day, with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 80%. In contrast, October sees a significant drop in temperatures, with minimums plunging to -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum reaching 24°C (75°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). Precipitation during this month is lower at 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 5 days, while humidity remains consistent at 80%. For more details, check out Calgary weather in October.

May and November present striking contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a warm 29°C (85°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F), making it a month of springtime fluctuations. The weather is marked by higher precipitation at 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 10 days and humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, November sees much colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), though it can still reach a maximum of 21°C (70°F) on rare occasions. This month experiences less precipitation, at just 26 mm (1.0 in) across 7 days, with slightly higher humidity at 86%. For more insights about November weather specifics, check out Calgary weather in November.

May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days and maintains a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, December is significantly colder, with temperatures fluctuating from a chilling -35°C (-31°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging -7°C (20°F). Precipitation drops to 24 mm (0.9 in) across just 5 days, and humidity increases slightly to 92%. For more detailed insights, check out Calgary weather in December.

Compare Calgary's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Calgary

As May unfolds in Calgary, the weather begins to shift significantly from the chill of winter, inviting the arrival of warmer days. With temperatures reaching a maximum of 29°C (85°F), residents and visitors alike can finally enjoy more outdoor activities. The average temperature climbs to a comfortable 10°C (51°F), while the remnants of frosty mornings are still felt with occasional lows dropping to -6°C (22°F). However, the month does not come without its share of rain, contributing to 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over roughly ten days, wrapped in a humid embrace of 80%. This blend of warmth and moisture sets May apart from the frigid winter months, heralding the onset of Calgary’s vibrant summer season. For a comprehensive understanding of how May fits into Calgary's yearly climate tapestry, explore the detailed insights at Calgary Climate.