May Weather in Canada, Mexico

Last updated: April 22, 2025

Experience the vibrant May weather in Canada and Mexico, where temperatures soar to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), while enjoying a pleasant average of 24°C (76°F). With a minimum temperature dipping to 11°C (53°F), this month showcases the exhilarating contrast of warm days and cooler nights. Despite the high temperatures, expect 92 mm (3.6 in) of rainfall across 19 days, making for a humid atmosphere with an average humidity level of 82%. This unique climate invites both adventure seekers and nature lovers to embrace the lush, revitalizing landscapes that flourish under these conditions.

May Temperature in Canada

As May arrives, temperatures in Canada and Mexico begin to showcase the first hints of summer warmth. With a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a comfortable average of 24°C (76°F), days become increasingly pleasant for outdoor activities. The maximum temperature reaching up to 38°C (101°F) indicates a definitive shift from the cooler spring months. This progression follows a clear trend throughout the year, where each month gradually warms up, making May a delightful precursor to the hot summer ahead. Such trends highlight the evolving climate, inviting locals and tourists alike to revel in the longer, sun-filled days.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Canada, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec596367727575757573706460
Data source: Temperature data for Canada 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 Canada

May marks a significant transition in precipitation patterns for both Canada and Mexico, with rainfall surging to 92 mm (3.6 in), the highest recorded for the year so far. This uptick is reflected in the increased number of precipitation days, with 19 days of rain, illustrating a shift towards wetter conditions as the spring season progresses. Following the relatively stable amounts in earlier months, the leap in May foreshadows the onset of summer storms and heavier rains, particularly as June approaches, expected to bring even more moisture with an impressive 148 mm (5.8 in) forecasted. This pattern underscores the distinct seasonal rhythm prevalent in the region, where May serves as a precursor to the lush, vibrant landscapes that characterize the summer months ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Canada

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Canada, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3029484892148116951641453519
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Canada

In May, Canada and Mexico begin to experience a slight reprieve from the spring's dampness, with an average humidity level of 82%. This marks a gradual decline from January's peak of 88% and reflects the overall trend of decreasing humidity as the year progresses—April shows 80% humidity, while June dips to 79%. Despite this decrease, May still retains a noticeable moisture in the air, setting the stage for the warmer months ahead. As summer approaches, humidity levels will continue to fluctuate, revealing a dynamic interplay between warmth and moisture that characterizes the seasons in these regions.

May Average Humidity in Canada

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Canada, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%86%83%80%82%79%72%74%84%92%91%91%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Canada

As we transition into May, the UV Index in Canada and Mexico remains strikingly high, maintaining an extreme exposure category with a UV Index of 13. This trend mirrors the previous months, where both March and April also recorded extreme levels, demanding caution for outdoor activities. The burn time stays critically low at just 10 minutes, emphasizing the urgency in protecting skin from harmful rays. While the summer months ahead promise prolonged exposure, it is crucial to remain vigilant, as this sustained intensity showcases a significant pattern of increasing UV radiation during early summer. For those looking to understand the UV Index better, check out Canada UV Index for more insights.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Canada for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Canada 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec810131413131413131197
Data source: Canada 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 Canada

As May arrives, Canada and Mexico bask in the warmth of increasing sunshine, clocking an impressive 314 hours of daylight. This marks a delightful peak following a steady climb from January’s modest 193 hours. The trend continues, as the lengthening days bring life back to nature and set the stage for vibrant summer atmospheres. By June, sunshine increases even further, reaching 317 hours, and then peaks in July with 327 hours. This progression not only highlights the growing warmth but also enhances outdoor activities and tourism, making late spring and early summer an enchanting time in both countries. As the season transitions into September, the hours start to dip, yet the lingering summer glow ensures that the memories of those sun-soaked days linger long after the sun begins to set earlier.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Canada: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Canada 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec193h237h279h283h314h317h327h325h289h275h247h261h
Data source: Canada May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Canada During May

In May, the likelihood of sunny weather in Canada and Mexico stands at 40%, an intriguing mid-point in the annual weather cycle. While it shows a slight decline from the sunnier conditions of February (58%) and March (54%), it nonetheless remains a promising month compared to the dip in sunshine expected in June (20%). As spring gently transitions to summer, May presents a balancing act between dwindling spring sunshine and the onset of the hot summer months. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities, as the chances of enjoying warm, sunny days linger just before the weather takes a turn.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Canada

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Canada 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 Canada experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec39%58%54%45%40%20%26%40%21%45%51%66%
Data source: Canada May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Canada in May

As the months progress, daylight in Canada and Mexico showcases a pronounced seasonal rhythm. Starting at 10 hours in January, the duration gradually increases to 11 hours in February and hits 12 hours by March, signaling the arrival of spring. April maintains this 12-hour mark, but by May, daylight extends to 13 hours, welcoming the vibrant days of late spring and early summer that persist through June and July. As summer yields to autumn, the daylight begins to gradually retract, with August returning to 12 hours and September mirroring this duration. By October and November, daylight diminishes to 11 hours, ultimately dropping back to 10 hours in December, completing the cycle. This ebb and flow of sunlight not only illuminates the seasonal transitions but also enriches the natural beauty and activities of both countries throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Canada for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Canada throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 57m11h 25m12h 1m12h 39m13h 11m13h 26m13h 17m12h 50m12h 13m11h 36m11h 4m10h 48m
Data source: Canada daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Canada

In May, both Canada and Mexico experience a gentle yet consistent breeze, with an average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph). Following a gradual ascent from the winter months, where January and February struggled with lower speeds of 1.9 m/s (4 mph) and 2.1 m/s (5 mph), the wind picks up slightly from April's 2.6 m/s (6 mph), highlighting a trend of increasing vitality as spring approaches its peak. This mild wind continues into the summer, where speeds remain stable before tapering off in the latter months of the year. Overall, May serves as a transitional period where wind patterns shift from the quietness of winter to the livelier breezes of summer, creating a refreshing atmosphere that paves the way for outdoor activities.

Average May Wind Speed in Canada

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Canada, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.92.12.52.62.5 m/s2.02.12.51.81.81.81.7
Data source: Canada May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Canada Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). This month experiences a notable amount of precipitation at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 19 days, combined with a humidity level of 82%. In stark contrast, January has milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). January also sees significantly less rainfall at 30 mm (1.2 in) over just 6 days, although humidity is slightly higher at 88%. For more insights into January's climate, you can check out Canada weather in January.

May and February present notably different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 11°C (53°F) at night to a scorching 38°C (101°F) during the day, with an average of 24°C (76°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over about 19 days, contributing to higher humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, February is noticeably cooler, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is less frequent in February, amounting to 29 mm (1.2 in) over just 8 days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 86%. For a more detailed comparison, check Canada weather in February.

May tends to be significantly warmer than March, with average temperatures soaring to 24°C (76°F) compared to March's 19°C (67°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are nearly comparable, reaching up to 38°C (101°F) in May and 37°C (99°F) in March. However, May experiences more frequent rainfall, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over 19 days, while March sees lower precipitation levels of 48 mm (1.9 in) across just 10 days. Interestingly, humidity levels remain quite similar, with May at 82% and March slightly higher at 83%. For more detailed insights on the weather, check out Canada weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a gradual warming trend. April has a slightly cooler average temperature of 22°C (72°F) compared to May's average of 24°C (76°F). While both months experience high temperatures, May's maximum reaches 38°C (101°F), just shy of April's peak of 39°C (102°F). Despite this, May is significantly wetter, with total precipitation of 92 mm (3.6 in) over 19 days compared to April’s 48 mm (1.9 in) across only 9 days. Humidity levels are also higher in May at 82%, compared to April's 80%. For more insights, you can check Canada weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we see a notable shift in both temperatures and precipitation. May experiences a wider temperature range with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum reaching 38°C (101°F), while June has a slightly higher minimum temperature of 16°C (61°F) but a max of 36°C (98°F), making the averages quite comparable. However, June brings significantly more rainfall, with precipitation levels rising to 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, compared to May's 92 mm (3.6 in) across 19 days. The humidity decreases slightly in June to 79%, down from 82% in May. For further details, check out Canada weather in June.

In May, temperatures can vary significantly, ranging from a cool 11°C (53°F) at night to a scorching 38°C (101°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). This month experiences a considerable amount of rainfall, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over 19 days, and high humidity at 82%, making it feel quite warm and sticky. In contrast, July brings slightly milder temperatures, with minimums of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F), while the average remains consistent at 24°C (75°F). However, July sees increased precipitation at 116 mm (4.6 in) over the same number of rain days, but the humidity drops to 72%, offering a more comfortable climate despite the added rainfall. For more detailed information, you can check Canada weather in July.

In May, the weather can be quite hot, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 38°C (101°F), though the average stays around a comfortable 24°C (76°F). However, it is a rather humid month with an average humidity of 82% and substantial rainfall of about 92 mm (3.6 in) across 19 days. In contrast, August presents milder conditions, with maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (94°F) and a similar average of 24°C (75°F). The humidity drops significantly to 74%, and while precipitation remains slightly higher at 95 mm (3.7 in), it occurs over just 18 days. For more details on August weather, you can check Canada weather in August.

In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, with 92 mm (3.6 in) falling over approximately 19 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity of 82%.

In contrast, September sees a slight increase in minimum temperatures at 15°C (59°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while the maximum temperature reaches 36°C (97°F). However, it is marked by higher precipitation levels, accumulating 164 mm (6.5 in) over 22 days, and an even slightly higher humidity of 84%.

For further comparisons, you can learn more about Canada weather in September. Overall, while both months feature warm temperatures, September is wetter and slightly more humid than May.

May and October present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences about 92 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 19 days, combined with high humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a low of 9°C (49°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Rainfall increases significantly to 145 mm (5.7 in) over 15 days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 92%. For a more detailed look at October weather, check out Canada weather in October.

May and November showcase contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 11°C (53°F) at night to a sizzling 38°C (101°F) during the day, with an average of 24°C (76°F). This month is also characterized by higher rainfall, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over about 19 days, and a humidity level of 82%. In stark contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows dropping to 1°C (33°F) and daytime highs reaching 32°C (89°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). Rainfall in November is significantly less, at 35 mm (1.4 in) across just 9 days, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity of 91%. For a closer look at November weather specifics, visit Canada weather in November.

In comparing the weather of May and December, it's clear that there is a significant contrast between the two months. May boasts much warmer temperatures, with an average of 24°C (76°F) and highs reaching up to 38°C (101°F), alongside a high level of humidity at 82%. The month also experiences considerable rainfall, with precipitation recorded on 19 days totaling 92 mm (3.6 in).

In stark contrast, December brings much cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 16°C (60°F) and daytime highs peaking at 31°C (88°F). The humidity is slightly higher at 91%, but precipitation is considerably less, with only 19 mm (0.8 in) falling over just four days. For those interested in more detailed December weather patterns, check out Canada weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Canada

As May unfolds in Canada, it heralds a transition marked by warmer temperatures and increased humidity, setting it apart from the chillier months that precede it. With average highs reaching a comfortable 24°C, residents and visitors alike embrace the warmer days, despite occasional precipitation that graces nearly two-thirds of the month. This blend of warmth and moisture creates a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the beauty of spring. For a deeper understanding of the nuances of Canadian weather, explore more at Canada Climate.