Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, Girdwood, United States experiences a dynamic transition into spring, characterized by a maximum temperature of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), with cooler evenings dropping to a minimum of -5°C (22°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, contributing to the lush, vibrant scenery of the region. High humidity levels of 88% create a refreshing atmosphere, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife that Girdwood has to offer.
In Girdwood, United States, May marks a noticeable transition into milder weather. With minimum temperatures hovering around -5°C (22°F), the chill of winter begins to recede, paving the way for more pleasant days. The average temperature rises to 3°C (37°F), signaling the arrival of spring, while the maximum can reach a comfortable 16°C (60°F). This gradual warming trend from the freezing winter months to the blossoms of summer is reflected throughout the month, as Girdwood sheds its icy cloak and welcomes the fresh blooms and vibrant colors of the season. By embracing the changes of May, residents and visitors alike can revel in the beauty of nature awakening after a long, cold season.
In May, Girdwood experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with 142 mm (5.6 in) falling over an increased number of rainy days—19 days this month. This trend marks a shift from the more moderate April, which saw 115 mm (4.5 in) across 14 days. As spring progresses, the days become wetter, bridging the transition to the lush summer season ahead. While the precipitation totals dip slightly in June, the heightening frequency of rain in May hints at the forthcoming vibrant blooms and rich greenery that Girdwood is known for. This pattern illustrates not just a seasonal rhythm but a deeper connection to the breathtaking natural beauty that defines this enchanting Alaskan locale.
In Girdwood, United States, May sees an average humidity of 88%, marking a subtle decline from the wetter April but still noticeably elevated compared to the drier winter months. As the spring season progresses, residents and visitors can expect a shift towards more pleasant conditions, although the lingering moisture from the surrounding landscape creates a lush, verdant atmosphere. This slight dip in humidity stands in contrast to the soaring levels reached during the peak summer months of July and August, when humidity surges to 102% and 100%, respectively. Overall, May serves as a transitional period, gradually paving the way for the more humid conditions that characterize the summer in this picturesque Alaskan locale.
As May arrives in Girdwood, the UV Index climbs to 7, marking a shift to a high exposure category that warrants precaution. This increase from April's 5 reflects the longer days and stronger sunlight typical of early summer. With a burn time of just 25 minutes, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to protect their skin during outdoor activities. Unlike the earlier months where exposure remained low to moderate, May signals the start of intense UV radiation that continues into June and July. To stay informed and safe, check out the Girdwood UV Index for daily updates and tips.
UV Risk Categories
As spring blossoms into summer, May shines brightly in Girdwood, boasting 277 hours of dazzling sunshine—making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This upward trend in daylight hours builds on the warm momentum from April, which adds a robust 263 hours to its repertoire. As daylight lengthens into June, the sun continues to step up its game, peaking at 311 hours, showcasing a powerful transition into the vibrant summer months. The steady increase in sunshine hours not only enhances the natural beauty of Girdwood but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace outdoor adventures under the expansive Alaskan sky.
In Girdwood, May brings a mixed bag when it comes to sunny weather, with only a 20% chance of sunshine, marking a slight dip from the increasing trend seen in the previous months. After a steady climb from 12% in January to a peak of 42% in April, the likelihood of clear skies takes a turn, as cloudy conditions can often prevail in early summer. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the unpredictable nature of Girdwood's weather, where May transitions into the usual overcast skies of summer, contrasting sharply with the sunnier days of earlier spring months. As outdoor enthusiasts plan their activities, it's essential to keep in mind that while May offers more daylight, the odds of catching rays are less promising compared to the delightful spring peaks just passed.
As spring fully unfolds into summer in Girdwood, the daylight duration blossoms dramatically, peaking at an impressive 19 hours in June. May marks a significant transition, with 17 hours of daylight that invites residents and visitors alike to revel in outdoor activities and explore the lush landscapes. This upward trend from January's mere 6 hours highlights the gradual shift from winter's long nights to the vibrant, sunlit days of summer. Following July, a slight decrease to 18 hours occurs, gently ushering in the gradual tapering off of daylight as the year progresses. September and October see a steady decline, reminding us of the cyclical rhythm of nature, where even as the days shorten, the warmth and light of the season linger in the memory.
In Girdwood, United States, May marks a gentle uptick in wind activity, with average wind speeds reaching 1.7 m/s (4 mph). This increase signifies the transition into warmer months, as the winds become slightly brisker compared to the winter averages that linger around 1.3 to 1.6 m/s (3 mph) from January to April. As spring unfolds, the winds remain steady, only rising modestly in June before dipping again as summer edges toward fall. Notably, the consistent 4 mph winds from May through September create a pleasant atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities while still maintaining a comfortable environment throughout the season. The pattern reveals a gradual yet steady increase, reinforcing Girdwood's charming yet mild climate that outdoor enthusiasts have come to appreciate.
The weather in Girdwood 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 Girdwood and find detailed weather information for every month.
The weather in May contrasts significantly with that of January, featuring milder temperatures and increased rainfall. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). In comparison, January is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -27°C (-17°F) and averaging -9°C (16°F), only peaking at 2°C (36°F). While May sees about 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 19 days, January experiences slightly more precipitation at 165 mm (6.5 in) but over fewer days, totaling just 13. The humidity levels are also higher in January at 94%, compared to 88% in May. For more information, you can check Girdwood weather in January.
In comparing the weather between February and May, it is evident that May is significantly milder. While February boasts maximum temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and an average of -9°C (17°F), May sees much warmer averages, with minimum temperatures hovering at -5°C (22°F) and maximums reaching 16°C (60°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation with 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, compared to February's 115 mm (4.5 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 88%, while February's humidity is higher at 93%. For more specifics about the weather in February, check this link: Girdwood weather in February.
In comparing the weather conditions of March and May, it is evident that May brings a significant warming trend. While March experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-12°F) and an average of -8°C (19°F), May enjoys milder conditions, featuring a minimum of -5°C (22°F) and an average temperature of 3°C (37°F), peaking at 16°C (60°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with March recording 131 mm (5.2 in) over 12 days and May seeing a slightly higher total of 142 mm (5.6 in) across 19 days. Interestingly, the humidity remains relatively high in both months, with March at 91% and May at 88%. For a detailed look at March weather specifics, you can visit Girdwood weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it's evident that May offers a more temperate climate with an average temperature of 3°C (37°F), a significant rise from April's average of -1°C (30°F). The minimum temperature in May is higher as well, sitting at -5°C (22°F) compared to April's chilly -19°C (-2°F). Additionally, May sees an increase in precipitation, with 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, while April has slightly less at 115 mm (4.5 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are quite comparable, with May at 88% and April at 85%. For a deeper understanding of weather trends during this timeframe, check out Girdwood weather in April.
May and June weather in Girdwood presents a notable transition. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. By contrast, June sees a rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F), an average of 8°C (47°F), and a warmer maximum of 24°C (75°F). Although June has slightly less precipitation at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 21 days, the humidity increases to 95%, creating a more humid atmosphere. For more detailed information, you can check Girdwood weather in June.
When comparing the weather in May and July, there are notable differences in temperature and humidity. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). In contrast, July offers much warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and soaring up to 26°C (79°F), averaging 11°C (53°F). Additionally, May experiences higher precipitation at 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, while July sees slightly less rain, totaling 109 mm (4.3 in) over 17 days, though the humidity is remarkably high in July at 102%. Overall, while May is cooler and wetter, July delivers a more temperate climate that is significantly warmer. For more details on July weather, you can visit Girdwood weather in July.
In May, the weather sees a gradual warming with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -5°C (22°F) at night to a mild 16°C (60°F) during the day, accompanied by significant precipitation of 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 rainy days and high humidity at 88%. In contrast, August experiences slightly warmer conditions, with nighttime lows of 0°C (33°F) and daytime highs reaching 21°C (71°F). The month is also marked by a slightly higher precipitation total of 156 mm (6.1 in) across 20 days, and a notable increase in humidity, peaking at 100%. For more details on the specific weather conditions, you can visit Girdwood weather in August.
In comparing the weather of May and September, we find that both months feature similar maximum temperatures, averaging around 16°C (60°F), but September tends to have a slightly lower minimum temperature, dropping to -12°C (11°F) compared to May's -5°C (22°F). While May experiences an average temperature of 3°C (37°F), September averages a cooler 6°C (42°F). Rainfall is more prominent in September, with 192 mm (7.5 in) of precipitation compared to May's 142 mm (5.6 in), and both months have rain on about 19 days. Additionally, September has a higher humidity level of 96% versus May's 88%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Girdwood weather in September.
In May, temperatures tend to be milder with a minimum of -5°C (22°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), peaking at a maximum of 16°C (60°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, with humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, October brings colder temperatures with a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), reaching a maximum of only 13°C (56°F). This month also sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 281 mm (11.1 in) across 21 days, while humidity rises slightly to 91%. For more details on October weather specifically, you can visit Girdwood weather in October.
May and November present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). It's relatively damp, with 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 19 days and a humidity level of 88%. In contrast, November experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -27°C (-16°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F), peaking at just 3°C (38°F). The month sees higher precipitation of 224 mm (8.8 in) spread over 16 days, accompanied by even more humidity, at 95%. For those interested in a more detailed look, check out Girdwood weather in November.
May and December present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month sees relatively moderate precipitation at 142 mm (5.6 in) across 19 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), averaging -6°C (21°F), and maxing out at 5°C (41°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 268 mm (10.6 in) over 23 days, and humidity is even higher, reaching 96%. This makes December notably wetter and more frigid than May. For more details on December weather, visit Girdwood weather in December.
As May arrives in Girdwood, the weather begins to shed its winter chills, welcoming a noticeable shift with milder temperatures and increased precipitation. Unlike the colder months, temperatures rise to a comfortable average, though nighttime still brings a refreshing coolness. This month also marks a significant uptick in rain, with nearly half the days seeing some form of precipitation, contributing to the lush landscapes that define spring in this beautiful region. With humidity remaining high, the air feels rich and vibrant, making this a unique time for outdoor exploration. To learn more about Girdwood's weather patterns, visit Girdwood Climate.