May Weather in Punta Arenas, Chile

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Punta Arenas, Chile, May brings a mix of brisk temperatures and notable precipitation, creating a unique late autumn atmosphere. With maximum temperatures reaching 12°C (55°F) and averaging around 5°C (41°F), residents and visitors alike experience a cool climate. Nightfall dips to a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F), urging everyone to bundle up. Rainfall is prevalent this month, with about 70 mm (2.8 in) distributed over 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 90%. This combination of weather conditions enhances the dramatic beauty of Punta Arenas, making it a fascinating destination for those who appreciate the charm of southern climates.

May Temperature in Punta Arenas

As May settles in Punta Arenas, temperatures begin to dip, signaling the transition into winter. The average temperature hovers around 5°C (41°F), a notable decrease from the warmer hues of earlier months. Daily highs reach a modest 12°C (55°F), while nighttime chills can see lows plummet to -3°C (27°F). This month marks a clear shift from the milder autumn conditions of April, emphasizing a gradual descent into colder weather. As autumn wanes, the crisp air invigorates the senses, and the enchanting landscapes of Patagonia, blanketed in unique light, beckon adventurers to explore this stunning region.

May Weather in Punta Arenas: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Punta Arenas, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Punta Arenas, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec495048444136353740424648
Data source: Temperature data for Punta Arenas generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Punta Arenas

May brings a subtle shift in weather patterns to Punta Arenas, Chile as precipitation totals dip to 70 mm (2.8 in), marking one of the lighter months of the year. With precipitation occurring over just 13 days, May stands out for its relatively drier conditions compared to the preceding months, where April saw a total of 101 mm (4.0 in) in rainfall. This trend of decreasing rainfall continues into June, making May a transitional period as autumn gives way to winter. The overall pattern reflects a gradual reduction in precipitation from the wetter summer months, suggesting that while May may still experience rain, it offers a brief respite before the colder, wetter season fully sets in.

May Precipitation Trends in Punta Arenas

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Punta Arenas, 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. In Punta Arenas, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88729810170556781618393104
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Punta Arenas

May in Punta Arenas, Chile, marks a peak in humidity, reaching 90%, as the region transitions towards the cool winter months. This steadily rising trend from April's 89% indicates an increase in moisture content in the air, which continues into June and July, where humidity levels further climb to 92%. Throughout the year, except for a slight dip during the warmer months, Punta Arenas experiences consistently high humidity, showcasing its maritime climate. This notable increase as the seasons change not only influences local weather patterns but also affects the vibrant flora and fauna unique to this southern tip of Chile.

May Average Humidity in Punta Arenas

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Punta Arenas, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Punta Arenas is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%86%87%89%90%92%92%89%87%86%84%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Punta Arenas

As May settles in Punta Arenas, the UV Index dips to a mild 2, categorizing its exposure level as low. This marks a significant decrease from the extreme highs experienced in January and November, where values soared to 11 and 12, respectively. With a burn time of approximately 45 minutes, May offers a great opportunity for outdoor activities with minimal sun protection needed. This trend continues into the following months, as both June and July maintain a low UV Index, encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors comfortably. As the season progresses, staying informed about UV levels becomes essential—check the latest updates at Punta Arenas UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Punta Arenas for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Punta Arenas 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. In May, the maximum UV index in Punta Arenas typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec119632113481210
Data source: Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas

In Punta Arenas, Chile, the arrival of May marks a gentle dip in sunshine, with 105 hours of sunlight illuminating the days—a stark contrast to the vibrant 195 hours seen in both January and February. As autumn unfolds, there's a noticeable trend of decreasing daylight, peaking in April with 147 hours, before sinking further in May and June. However, as winter approaches, a slow recovery begins, with July's sunshine creeping back up to 110 hours. Interestingly, the journey through the year reveals a fascinating cycle, where the darkest months give way to a gradual resurgence of light, culminating in the sun-drenched days of late spring and summer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Punta Arenas: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Punta Arenas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec195h195h177h147h105h102h110h150h169h208h240h242h
Data source: Punta Arenas May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Punta Arenas During May

In Punta Arenas, Chile, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 28%, slightly ahead of the cooler months preceding it but lower than some of the late summer and early spring months, like March and August, which boast a more favorable 31% chance. This month’s sun exposure is comparable to October but trails behind the 30% likelihood seen in both November and December. Overall, as we transition from the warmth of summer into the chill of winter, May offers a modest opportunity for sunshine, hinting at the capricious weather that characterizes this southern city.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Punta Arenas

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%25%31%26%28%23%25%31%29%28%30%30%
Data source: Punta Arenas May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Punta Arenas in May

As May unfolds in Punta Arenas, Chile, the daylight duration diminishes significantly, offering only 8 hours of daylight. This trend marks a notable shift from the long, sunlit days of January and February, where locals enjoyed up to 16 hours of light. The progression through the months paints a clear picture of seasonal change, with daylight steadily declining from December through April. By May, the sun begins to shy away, heralding the onset of winter. Interestingly, as summer transitions into winter, this pattern reverses in July, where daylight creeps back up to 8 hours before gradually increasing again through the spring months. The dance of light and dark in this southern locale offers a vivid reminder of nature's cyclical rhythms.

Average Daylight Hours in Punta Arenas for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Punta Arenas throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16h 15m14h 30m12h 24m10h 18m8h 31m7h 35m8h 6m9h 42m11h 43m13h 50m15h 46m16h 50m
Data source: Punta Arenas daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Punta Arenas

As May unfolds in Punta Arenas, the winds begin to soften, with average speeds dipping to 4.7 m/s (11 mph). This marks a continuation of the gradual decline observed since April, where average wind speeds of 4.9 m/s (11 mph) hinted at the shifting seasons. Compared to the breezy summer months of January and March, where gusts reached 6.7 m/s (15 mph) and 6.6 m/s (15 mph), May’s calmer days suggest a gentle transition into winter. While the onset of winter is indicated by the lower wind speeds, it's interesting to note that the trend reverses sharply in October when winds pick up again, peaking at an invigorating 7.5 m/s (17 mph). This rhythmic dance of wind speeds throughout the year not only shapes the local climate but also adds a unique character to the vibrant landscape of Punta Arenas.

Average May Wind Speed in Punta Arenas

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Punta Arenas, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6.76.16.64.94.7 m/s4.15.55.65.77.57.06.8
Data source: Punta Arenas May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Punta Arenas Compares to Other Months

Weather in Punta Arenas varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Punta Arenas, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

May and January present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a mild average of 5°C (41°F), peaking at 12°C (55°F). The month sees around 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 13 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, January experiences much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 3°C (38°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), reaching a maximum of 21°C (71°F). It also has increased precipitation at 88 mm (3.5 in) spread over 20 days, but with lower humidity at 83%. For more detailed information on January weather, visit Punta Arenas weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average high of just 12°C (55°F), while February is much warmer, boasting a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, around 70-72 mm (2.8 in), but February has slightly more rainfall days, totaling 16 compared to May's 13 days. Humidity levels are also high in both months, with May at 90% and February slightly lower at 86%. For more specific insights, you can explore Punta Arenas weather in February.

In comparing the weather between May and March, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences a cooler range, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). In contrast, March offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum reaching 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels also vary, with May receiving 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, while March is wetter, accumulating 98 mm (3.8 in) across 19 days. The humidity remains high in both months, with May at 90% and March slightly lower at 87%. For a detailed look at March weather, check out Punta Arenas weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. April features slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F), an average of 6°C (44°F), and a maximum of 17°C (64°F). In contrast, May is cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of just 12°C (55°F). Precipitation is also higher in April, with 101 mm (4.0 in) over 16 days, compared to May's 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 rainy days. Interestingly, both months exhibit high humidity, with May at 90% and April at 89%. For more detailed insights, you can check Punta Arenas weather in April.

When comparing the weather in May and June, it's clear that both months experience cool temperatures, but June tends to be slightly colder overall. In May, the minimum temperature averages around -3°C (27°F), with maximums reaching up to 12°C (55°F), while June sees a drop with minimums at -8°C (18°F) and maximums of only 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is more frequent in June, with 15 rainy days compared to 13 days in May, contributing to a total of 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain. Humidity remains high in both months, with June slightly higher at 92% compared to May's 90%. For a detailed look at June's weather, you can check Punta Arenas weather in June.

In comparing the weather between May and July, it's notable that both months exhibit relatively cool temperatures. May features a slightly higher average temperature of 5°C (41°F) compared to July’s average of 2°C (35°F). While May experiences maximum temperatures of up to 12°C (55°F), July’s maximum is lower at 9°C (48°F). Precipitation levels are similar in both months, with May receiving 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days and July slightly less at 67 mm (2.6 in) over 15 days. The humidity remains high throughout both months, with May at 90% and July at 92%. For detailed insights on July weather, you can visit Punta Arenas weather in July.

In May, the weather in Punta Arenas features a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F) and averages around 5°C (41°F), with a maximum reaching 12°C (55°F). The month is characterized by relatively high humidity at 90%, alongside 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In contrast, August sees slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), peaking at 11°C (52°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 89%. For more detailed insights on August weather, you can visit Punta Arenas weather in August.

May and September present quite similar weather patterns, yet each month carries its own distinct characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). This month sees notable precipitation, averaging 70 mm (2.8 in) over about 13 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, September features slightly milder temperatures with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a similar maximum of 12°C (54°F), leading to an average of 4°C (40°F). Although September experiences less precipitation at 61 mm (2.4 in), it spans 16 days. The humidity in September is also marginally lower at 87%. For more specific details on September weather, see Punta Arenas weather in September.

In comparing May and October weather, we see a slight increase in temperatures during October, with average highs reaching 14°C (58°F) compared to May's 12°C (55°F). While both months exhibit chilly minimum temperatures, October’s lows hover around -2°C (29°F), just one degree warmer than May’s -3°C (27°F). Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 19 days, compared to May’s 70 mm (2.8 in) across 13 days. Humidity levels are also quite high in both months, with October at 86% and May at 90%. For more specific insights on October weather, you can check out Punta Arenas weather in October.

May and November present distinct weather characteristics in Punta Arenas. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 5°C (41°F), with a maximum of 12°C (55°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity at 90%. In contrast, November offers milder temperatures with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), peaking at 18°C (65°F). However, it experiences slightly higher precipitation, with 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over 18 days, and lower humidity at 84%. For more detailed insights on November weather, you can check Punta Arenas weather in November.

In May, temperatures in Punta Arenas are cooler, with averages around 5°C (41°F), and a range from -3°C (27°F) to 12°C (55°F). During this month, the region experiences high humidity at 90% and sees about 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days. In contrast, December brings milder weather, with temperatures averaging 9°C (49°F), peaking at 18°C (64°F). Despite being warmer, December is wetter, with 104 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall spread across 22 days, and humidity slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Punta Arenas weather in December.

Compare Punta Arenas's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Punta Arenas

As spring unfolds in Punta Arenas, May brings a cool transition marked by an average temperature of around 5°C (41°F), significantly cooler than the preceding months. The likelihood of rain increases, with precipitation occurring on 13 days, contributing to a total of 70 mm (2.8 in). The high humidity level of 90% makes it feel even chillier, setting May apart from its milder autumn predecessors. While the maximum temperature hovers around 12°C (55°F), the occasional drop to -3°C (27°F) serves as a reminder that winter is approaching. This blend of wet and cool weather creates a unique atmosphere that's ideal for cozy indoor activities or braving the outdoors with a warm jacket. For a more comprehensive understanding of how May fits into the larger climate picture, check out Punta Arenas Climate.