Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Nanjing, China brings a dynamic mix of weather conditions, characterized by a maximum temperature reaching up to 38°C (100°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). As the month progresses, daytime warmth is tempered by cooler nights, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 15°C (60°F). However, May also signals the onset of the rainy season, with precipitation totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over a span of 16 days, resulting in an average humidity level of 85%. This blend of heat and moisture creates a lush, vibrant atmosphere, typical of the transition into summer.
In May, Nanjing experiences a noticeable shift towards summer warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F). The average temperature peaks at 26°C (79°F), creating a pleasant yet increasingly warm environment. This month serves as a precursor to the hotter months ahead, as you can see from the gradual increase in temperature from the cooler spring months of April, where highs reach only 33°C (91°F). Consequently, May becomes an ideal time for outdoor activities, with ample sunshine inviting residents and visitors alike to explore the city's cultural landmarks before the oppressive heat of June sets in.
May in Nanjing is a month of transformation, as the city experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, with 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain falling over 16 days. This marks a striking increase from the previous months, ramping up from 73 mm in April and heralding the onset of the wet season. As the city awakens to lush greenery fueled by these showers, the rainfall prepares the landscape for the summer's heavy deluges. The steady pattern of rainfall throughout May not only enhances the vibrant flora but also sets the stage for even more intense precipitation in June, which averages 264 mm (10.4 in). With the air thickened by humidity, Nanjing transforms into a picturesque scene of nature's resilience and beauty.
As spring transitions to summer in Nanjing, May brings notable humidity levels, peaking at 85%. This increase continues the trend observed from earlier months, with humidity steadily rising from 71% in January to 80% by April. May's substantial humidity creates a lush environment, but it also hints at the imminent summer heat as the season progresses. Following this peak, June and July maintain similar humidity levels, further establishing the trend of a humid climate during the summer months. Interestingly, September marks a shift as humidity drops back down to 71%, indicating a refreshing transition into fall, showcasing the cyclical nature of Nanjing's weather patterns throughout the year.
As May unfolds in Nanjing, China, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the extreme UV Index of 13. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, the intensity of the sun is a stark reminder to prioritize skin safety. Following a trend established in April, the UV levels remain high as summer approaches, continuing the pattern of severe exposure that characterizes the warmer months. This sustained high UV Index is a call for precaution, urging everyone to seek shade and wear protective gear, especially during midday hours. For more details on UV exposure throughout the year, visit Nanjing UV Index.
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In May, Nanjing basks in 290 hours of glorious sunshine, marking a peak in the city's radiant spring season. This month is a delightful continuation of a steadily increasing trend that began in January with 214 hours of sunlight. As the days grew longer, February and March saw gradual rises, with 256 and 270 hours respectively. By April, the skies shone brightly over Nanjing with 268 hours, setting the stage for May's abundant sunlight. Following this vibrant month, June experiences a slight dip to 260 hours, yet the warm embrace of summer quickly returns, peaking again in July with an impressive 326 hours. Overall, May emerges as a cheerful highlight in Nanjing’s yearly sunlit journey, showcasing the city's transition from the cool spring to the hot summer ahead.
In Nanjing, China, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a notable dip in May, with only 27% of days typically basking in sunlight. This is a stark contrast to the brighter months of January and February, where the chances soar to 69% and 61%, respectively. As spring unfolds, a gradual decline is observed from April's 44% to May's modest probability. Following May, June further plunges to a mere 9%, highlighting an emerging trend of fleeting sunshine as summer approaches. Therefore, while May offers some respite before the peak of summer's cloud cover, it's clear that residents and visitors alike may need to adjust their sun-seeking expectations during this transitional month.
In Nanjing, China, daylight duration experiences a notable shift throughout the year, reflecting the changing seasons. Starting with 10 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen, reaching their peak in May with 13 hours of sunlight. This trend continues into June and July, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. As summer wanes, daylight hours begin to gradually decrease again, dropping to 12 hours in August and then to 11 hours by October, suggesting a gentle transition into autumn. By the time December arrives, daylight dwindles back to 10 hours, completing the annual cycle. This rhythmic pattern not only signals the passage of time but also enriches the experience of each season in this vibrant city.
In Nanjing, China, the month of May brings a refreshing breeze, with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), mirroring the gusty conditions of January and April. As spring transitions into summer, the wind begins to cool the rising temperatures, providing a pleasant respite. Interestingly, the wind speeds gradually decline through the summer months, reaching a low of 2.0 m/s (5 mph) in August, before rebounding in October with a brisk 3.1 m/s (7 mph) average. This pattern underscores Nanjing’s dynamic climate, where winds play a vital role in shaping the seasonal experience, especially during the vibrant days of late spring and early autumn.
Weather in Nanjing varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Nanjing, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, averaging 139 mm (5.5 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 85%. In stark contrast, January is much cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F). Precipitation is significantly lower, at just 22 mm (0.9 in) over 3 days, and the humidity is lower as well at 71%. For a more detailed look at January weather, check out Nanjing weather in January.
May and February present strikingly different weather conditions. In May, temperatures soar, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), reaching highs of 38°C (100°F). In contrast, February is significantly cooler, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). Additionally, May experiences much more precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 16 days, compared to February's 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 5 days. The humidity is also notably higher in May at 85%, while February maintains a more comfortable level at 73%. For more details on February weather, you can visit Nanjing weather in February.
May is noticeably warmer than March, with average temperatures soaring to 26°C (79°F) compared to March's more mild 19°C (67°F). The maximum temperature in May can reach up to 38°C (100°F), while March peaks at a comfortable 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is also higher in May, with 139 mm (5.5 in) falling across 16 days, compared to March’s 60 mm (2.4 in) over just 9 days. Additionally, May's humidity is elevated at 85%, slightly above March's 79%. For more detailed insights on March weather patterns, you can visit Nanjing weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it's evident that May experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with averages reaching 26°C (79°F) and maximums soaring up to 38°C (100°F), compared to April's average of 22°C (72°F) and max of 33°C (91°F). Moreover, May is characterized by higher humidity at 85%, slightly above April's 80%. Rainfall also increases in May, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 16 days, whereas April sees only 73 mm (2.9 in) over 10 days. For a closer look at April's weather specifics, you can check Nanjing weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) across 16 days and a high humidity level of 85%.
In contrast, June experiences slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (73°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F), resulting in an average of 28°C (83°F). However, it is significantly wetter, with precipitation reaching 264 mm (10.4 in) over 24 days and humidity dropping slightly to 81%. For more details on June's weather in Nanjing, visit Nanjing weather in June.
May and July both experience high humidity levels of around 85%, but their temperature profiles vary significantly. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F). In contrast, July sees a warmer range, with temperatures starting at 25°C (76°F) and peaking at 37°C (99°F), averaging 29°C (85°F). Additionally, July receives more precipitation, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in) over 23 days, compared to May’s 139 mm (5.5 in) over 16 days. For further details, please visit Nanjing weather in July.
In May, temperatures in Nanjing range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). The month experiences a notable amount of rainfall, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 16 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, August sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 29°C (84°F), peaking at 37°C (99°F). However, it also brings heavier rainfall, with 278 mm (10.9 in) over a total of 25 days, and slightly lower humidity at 83%. For more detailed insights, check out Nanjing weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather characteristics, highlighting the transition from spring to early autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). The month tends to be quite wet, receiving about 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation across 16 days, paired with high humidity at 85%. In contrast, September offers warmer nights with a minimum temperature of 21°C (70°F) and a slightly higher average of 28°C (82°F), peaking at 35°C (96°F). Although September experiences slightly more precipitation at 151 mm (5.9 in) over 18 days, the humidity is notably lower at 71%. For more details on September weather, check out this link: Nanjing weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns, with May featuring warmer temperatures, peaking at 38°C (100°F) and averaging around 26°C (79°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 85% and more significant rainfall, with 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation occurring over 16 days. In contrast, October offers slightly cooler temperatures, maxing out at 35°C (96°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F) and a milder minimum of 14°C (58°F). Rainfall in October is less frequent and abundant, totaling just 98 mm (3.9 in) over 7 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 70%. For more details, check out the Nanjing weather in October.
In comparing the weather between May and November, May is characterized by significantly warmer temperatures, with averages around 26°C (79°F), peaking at a hot 38°C (100°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 85% and more frequent rain, averaging 139 mm (5.5 in) over 16 days. In contrast, November experiences milder conditions, with temperatures averaging 21°C (70°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Additionally, November has considerably less precipitation at 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 3 days, and lower humidity at 72%. For more details on November's climate specifics, you can refer to Nanjing weather in November.
May and December present striking contrasts in weather conditions. May experiences warmer temperatures, with averages soaring to 26°C (79°F) and maximums reaching up to 38°C (100°F). The month is also characterized by significant rainfall, with 139 mm (5.5 in) over approximately 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 85%. In contrast, December is much cooler, with daily temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is considerably lower, with only 33 mm (1.3 in) spread across just 4 days and humidity at a more comfortable 75%. For a detailed look at December's weather, you can visit Nanjing weather in December.
As May arrives in Nanjing, the weather transitions to the warmth of late spring, offering a noticeable shift from the cooler months. With average temperatures hovering around 26°C (79°F), the days become increasingly inviting, though they can peak at a scorching 38°C (100°F). This month also marks a period of increased precipitation, with approximately 139 mm (5.5 in) of rainfall across 16 days, leading to a humid environment that can feel quite muggy, especially with humidity levels reaching 85%. Unlike the drier winter months, May’s wet conditions create a vibrant backdrop for blooming flora and outdoor activities. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns and trends throughout the year, visit Nanjing Climate.