May Weather in Chengdu, China

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Chengdu, China, the weather in May brings a dynamic mix of warmth and moisture, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 38°C (100°F) to an average of 22°C (73°F), and dipping to a breezy minimum of 12°C (54°F). This month sees about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to the region’s lush landscapes. As humidity levels soar to a remarkable 87%, the air is thick with moisture, creating a vibrant atmosphere that typifies late spring in this charming city. Whether you’re exploring the local cuisine or the stunning natural surroundings, May in Chengdu offers an enticing blend of experiences enveloped in warm, humid air.

May Temperature in Chengdu

In Chengdu, China, May marks a significant warming trend as temperatures rise dramatically from the cooler months. With a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F), this month signals the approach of summer, peaking at a maximum of 38°C (100°F). The gradual ascent in temperature from January’s chill, with lows of -4°C (25°F), sets the stage for May’s warmth. As the season transitions, locals and visitors alike can embrace the vibrant atmosphere of the city under bright skies, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. With such a comfortable range, May truly showcases Chengdu at its inviting best, contrasting the stark cold of winter and anticipating the heat of summer.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Chengdu, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Chengdu, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec444858667278808072635545
Data source: Temperature data for Chengdu 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 Chengdu

In May, Chengdu experiences a significant increase in precipitation, with 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain falling over 11 days. This uptick builds on the 58 mm (2.3 in) recorded in April, signaling the transition into a wetter season. As the city moves from the mild spring months into early summer, the rain becomes more frequent, paving the way for lush greenery and vibrant landscapes. This trend continues into June and July, where rainfall volumes soar, indicating that May serves as a pivotal month in Chengdu’s annual precipitation cycle. The gradual escalation of rain is a reminder of the region's subtropical climate, where the harmony of warm temperatures and increased moisture creates a flourishing environment.

May Precipitation Trends in Chengdu

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Chengdu, 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 Chengdu, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51023587489313409118571511
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Chengdu

In May, Chengdu experiences a humidity level of 87%, slightly lower than the previous months but still characteristic of its generally moist climate. The trend from April, which recorded 85%, indicates a mild rise as the city transitions to hotter temperatures with the approach of summer. Throughout the year, Chengdu maintains high humidity, hovering consistently around the 90% mark in the colder months and peaking in the late summer with levels reaching up to 92%. This persistent humidity creates a lush, vibrant environment that defines Chengdu’s unique charm, making May a delightful month as the city blooms in temperatures more favorable for outdoor exploration.

May Average Humidity in Chengdu

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Chengdu, 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 Chengdu is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%92%90%86%87%88%89%92%92%92%92%90%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Chengdu

In May, Chengdu experiences a significant spike in the UV Index, reaching a striking 12, categorizing the exposure as extreme. This marks the peak of the year, following a steady increase from 5 in January to 10 in April. With a burn time of only 10 minutes, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to take precautions against the sun's harsh rays. As summer approaches, this trend highlights the need for vigilant sun protection, making it essential to stay informed about the daily UV levels. For more information, visit Chengdu UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Chengdu for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Chengdu 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 Chengdu typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec568101211111011864
Data source: Chengdu 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 Chengdu

In Chengdu, China, the month of May shines brightly with an impressive 261 hours of sunshine, marking a peak in the city's vibrant spring season. As the year progresses, the amount of sunlight gradually increases, showcasing a steady climb from 188 hours in January to 236 hours in April. Following May, a slight dip occurs in June, still retaining a commendable 251 hours. The trend indicates that Chengdu enjoys its sunniest months in the summer, with July and August boasting the highest totals of 285 and 290 hours, respectively. This delightful progression of sunshine not only enhances the city's charm but also invites residents and visitors alike to bask in the warmth of its beautiful days.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Chengdu: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Chengdu 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec188h225h225h236h261h251h285h290h214h165h197h209h
Data source: Chengdu May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Chengdu During May

In Chengdu, May marks a distinct turning point in sunny weather, with a mere 13% chance of clear skies, the lowest in the calendar year. This decline follows a gradual downward trend from April's 19%, highlighting the region's transition into its wet season. Interestingly, while January and February enjoy considerably higher probabilities of sunshine at 44% and 37% respectively, the onset of summer reveals only fleeting instances of sun in the following months, including June and July. As travelers and locals alike prepare for the lush greenery of late spring, it’s wise to anticipate overcast days more than sunlit ones in May.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Chengdu

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Chengdu 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 Chengdu experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44%37%26%19%13%14%26%18%27%14%36%40%
Data source: Chengdu May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Chengdu in May

In Chengdu, China, the daylight duration undergoes a fascinating transformation throughout the year. Starting from 10 hours in January, daylight begins to stretch as early as February, reaching 11 hours and remaining consistent through March. The real shift occurs in April, where daylight expands noticeably to 12 hours. May ushers in even more sunshine, peaking at 13 hours—a harbinger of the vibrant summer ahead. The trend continues into June, with the longest daylight of the year at 14 hours, providing ample time for outdoor adventures. However, as summer fades, daylight gradually diminishes, returning to 13 hours during July and August, and then tapering down to 12 hours by September. As the year closes, daylight lingers at 11 hours in October before settling back to 10 hours by December, creating a rhythmic cycle that encapsulates the beauty of seasonal change in Chengdu.

Average Daylight Hours in Chengdu for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Chengdu throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 23m11h 4m11h 59m12h 55m13h 42m14h 5m13h 53m13h 12m12h 19m11h 23m10h 35m10h 10m
Data source: Chengdu daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Chengdu

In May, Chengdu experiences a gentle embrace of wind, with an average speed of 1.8 m/s (4 mph), consistent with the preceding months of April and February, where breezes hover around the same speed. This trend of mild wind persists through the spring and into early summer. Interestingly, the wind speed begins to decline slightly as summer approaches, dipping to 1.6 m/s (4 mph) in both July and October. Yet, September surprises with a slight uptick, reaching 2.0 m/s (4 mph), hinting at the city's dynamic wind patterns as seasons shift. Overall, May showcases Chengdu's trademark calm, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities amidst the soft whispers of the wind.

Average May Wind Speed in Chengdu

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Chengdu, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.91.81.91.81.8 m/s1.71.61.82.01.61.51.7
Data source: Chengdu May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Chengdu Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present dramatically different weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 12°C (54°F) to a scorching 38°C (100°F), with an average of 22°C (73°F). The month experiences about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, January is significantly colder, with temperatures varying from a low of -4°C (25°F) to a peak of only 16°C (62°F) and an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). January sees minimal precipitation, totaling just 5 mm (0.2 in) across one day and maintaining a slightly higher humidity level of 90%. For more detailed insights, you can check Chengdu weather in January.

May and February present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average temperature of 22°C (73°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 11 days, paired with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, February offers much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is minimal, with just 10 mm (0.4 in) falling over 2 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 92%. Thus, while May is characterized by warmth and humidity, February brings cooler temperatures and less rainfall. For more details, check Chengdu weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, May typically offers warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average high reaching 38°C (100°F). In contrast, March features cooler temperatures, ranging from a low of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). While May sees higher precipitation levels at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, March experiences less rain, totaling only 23 mm (0.9 in) over 6 days. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, with May at 87% and March slightly higher at 89%. For more detailed information, you can visit Chengdu weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, it’s evident that May experiences warmer temperatures, with averages reaching 22°C (73°F) compared to April's 19°C (66°F). The minimum temperature in May is also higher at 12°C (54°F), while April starts at a cooler 9°C (49°F). Moreover, May can see maximum temperatures spike up to 38°C (100°F), slightly higher than April’s peak of 36°C (98°F). On the precipitation front, May receives more rainfall, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, compared to April's 58 mm (2.3 in) across 10 days. Despite this increase in rainfall, the humidity in May remains relatively high at 87%, only slightly above April's 85%. For a more detailed look at April’s weather, you can visit Chengdu weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we observe a slight increase in average temperatures, with May ranging from a minimum of 12°C to a maximum of 38°C, while June temperatures shift to a minimum of 17°C and a maximum of 36°C. Overall, June tends to be warmer, with an average temperature of 25°C compared to May's 22°C. Precipitation also sees a rise, from 74 mm over 11 days in May to 89 mm over 9 days in June, although June experiences slightly fewer rainy days. Humidity stays relatively consistent, with May registering at 87% and June only slightly higher at 88%. For more detailed information about June weather, you can check Chengdu weather in June.

May and July exhibit distinct weather patterns, showcasing a transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 22°C (73°F). The month experiences relatively lower precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, and maintains a humidity level of 87%. In contrast, July typically brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a maximum of 37°C (98°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F). Notably, July is much wetter, receiving 312 mm (12.3 in) of rain over 22 days, and experiences a slightly higher humidity of 89%. For more details on the weather in the month of July, you can visit Chengdu weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather patterns with varying temperature ranges and precipitation levels. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), averaging around 22°C (73°F). This month experiences about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, with humidity sitting at 87%. In contrast, August boasts warmer conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a blistering maximum of 40°C (104°F), averaging 27°C (80°F). However, it also brings significantly more rain, recording 409 mm (16.1 in) over 21 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 92%. For further insights on August weather, you can check Chengdu weather in August.

May and September both share a similar average temperature of around 22°C (73°F), but they exhibit distinct characteristics in other weather parameters. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), while September’s temperatures are slightly cooler, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Additionally, precipitation levels are higher in September, with 118 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days compared to May's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days. Humidity also tends to be higher in September at 92%, compared to May's 87%. For more detailed insights about September weather, check out Chengdu weather in September.

May and October display distinct weather characteristics, marking the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a mild 12°C (54°F) at night to a hot 38°C (100°F) during the day, with an average of 22°C (73°F). The month experiences a notable humidity of 87% and receives around 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, October brings cooler weather, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and peaking at 30°C (86°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). While October has slightly lower precipitation at 57 mm (2.3 in) over 10 days, humidity rises to 92%, contributing to a more damp and crisp atmosphere. For more details on October's weather, check here: Chengdu weather in October.

May and November present quite different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F), with an average of 22°C (73°F). This month sees a higher level of precipitation at 74 mm (2.9 in), occurring across 11 days, along with a relatively humid atmosphere at 87%. Conversely, November features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging just 13°C (55°F). Rainfall is significantly lower, with only 15 mm (0.6 in) spread over 4 days, while humidity slightly increases to 92%. For a detailed look at November weather, visit Chengdu weather in November.

May and December present strikingly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 12°C (54°F) at night to a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 22°C (73°F). The month sees about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days and high humidity at 87%. In stark contrast, December offers much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of only 7°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation significantly decreases to just 11 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days, while humidity remains high at 90%. For more details, you can check Chengdu weather in December.

Compare Chengdu's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Chengdu

As May unfolds in Chengdu, temperatures start to climb, providing a taste of summer with warmer weather compared to the preceding months. With vibrant days averaging around 22°C (73°F), the city also experiences a mix of sunshine and rain, featuring approximately 11 days of precipitation that contributes to the lush greenery. Despite the heat peaking at 38°C (100°F), the high humidity of 87% can make it feel even warmer. Embrace this transitional month, which sets the stage for the hot summer ahead, and explore more about the city's climate trends in our comprehensive guide: Chengdu Climate.