Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Skagway, United States is defined by a mix of cool temperatures and significant moisture, making it a unique month for visitors and locals alike. With maximum temperatures reaching 16°C (62°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), the season begins to thaw, but the chilly air can still bring minimum lows of -8°C (18°F). Rain is a common companion, with 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, contributing to a robust humidity level of 92%. As the landscape bursts into bloom, Skagway presents a refreshing, albeit damp, atmosphere that captures the essence of spring in the Alaskan wilderness.
In May, Skagway marks a significant transition from the harsh chill of winter to the gentle warmth of spring, with temperatures showcasing a promising increase. The month begins with chilly nighttime lows around -8°C (18°F), while daytime highs can reach a delightful 16°C (62°F). This shift in temperature not only signals a break from the biting cold of earlier months but also invites a refreshing average of 3°C (38°F). Such a steady rise from the sub-zero temperatures of January and February highlights May as a pivotal moment in Skagway’s climate, where the lingering frost gives way to budding blossoms and outdoor activities. As the landscape begins to awaken, the warming trend in May sets the stage for the even more moderate and pleasant temperatures of summer, making it an ideal time for visitors to embrace the burgeoning beauty of this Alaskan gem.
In Skagway, May brings a refreshing touch of spring, with precipitation levels averaging around 113 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 18 days of rain. This amount is a slight increase from April's drier conditions yet falls within the overall trend of variability seen in the early months of the year. As the region transitions into the summer, one can expect increased rainfall, peaking in the fall, with October and November often receiving significant downpours. May's rainfall not only contributes to the lush landscapes but also sets the stage for the vibrant summer ahead, highlighting Skagway's unique maritime climate.
In May, Skagway experiences a humidity level of 92%, slightly lower than the preceding months of January through April, which consistently hover around the 93% mark. This marginal decrease provides a brief respite before the summer months arrive, characterized by a significant uptick in moisture. As June rolls in, humidity spikes dramatically to 100%, peaking in July and August with levels reaching 110% and 117%, respectively. This trend highlights Skagway's unique climate, where the late spring transition into summer brings a rise in humidity, creating a lush environment, even as early spring maintains its own damp charm. The months following May continue to reveal high humidity, emphasizing the region's maritime influences and its characteristic wetness throughout the year.
As May rolls into Skagway, the UV Index rises significantly, reaching a high level of 7. This shift marks a transition from the lower indices of the earlier months, where exposure was considered low to moderate. In contrast to January and February's safe 1 or 2 index levels, May's strong sun requires more caution, with a burn time of just 25 minutes for unprotected skin. Notably, this high UV exposure continues into June and July, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during this vibrant time of year. To stay informed about fluctuating UV levels and ensure safe sun practices, check out the comprehensive details at Skagway UV Index.
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In Skagway, United States, the arrival of May signifies a vibrant shift toward sunnier days, with the town basking in 283 hours of sunlight, marking one of the peak months for brightness in the year. This increase follows a steady climb from 257 hours in April, showcasing a clear trend of longer days as spring deepens and summer approaches. The sunniest months are not far off, as June and July continue to captivate residents and visitors alike, boasting 277 and 288 hours of sunlight, respectively. However, as the year progresses into the fall, sunlight diminishes significantly, with September seeing a drop to 186 hours, followed by a steady decline throughout the winter months. This seasonal dance of light not only brings warmth to Skagway but also mirrors the community's vibrant energy as it transitions from the quiet starkness of winter into the lush beauty of summer.
When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in May in Skagway, it's notable that the chance of sunshine drops to a mere 8%. This figure marks a decline compared to the more promising 39% in both February and April, suggesting that as spring transitions into early summer, sunny days become less frequent. June, which follows May, sees a slight uptick to 21%, indicating a gradual improvement as the summer season approaches. Overall, May appears to be one of the more overcast months in Skagway, aligning with the patterns of lower sunshine probabilities typical of early spring in this region.
As winter gives way to spring in Skagway, the increase in daylight hours is strikingly evident. January begins with only 6 hours of daylight, but by February, that number climbs to 9 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth. March and April further amplify this transition, bringing 11 hours and 14 hours of daylight, respectively. The real transformation occurs in May, where daylight soars to 17 hours, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This peak continues into June with 18 hours of daylight, marking the height of the summer season. As summer wanes, daylight gradually decreases, with July maintaining 17 hours before dipping to 15 hours in August. By September, the hours start to decline more steeply, with only 12 hours left, signaling the onset of autumn. This rhythmic ebb and flow of sunlight throughout the year not only shapes the local environment but also influences the lifestyle and activities of Skagway's residents and visitors alike.
In Skagway, United States, the month of May sees a continuation of the mild wind patterns typical of spring, with an average wind speed of 1.3 m/s (3 mph). This reflects a trend of relatively gentle breezes that have persisted since the beginning of the year, peaking slightly in the summer months. Notably, April and May exhibit the same wind speed, suggesting a stable atmospheric condition as the region transitions into the warmer season. As we move toward July and August, wind speeds gradually increase, reaching an average of 1.6 m/s (4 mph) and 1.8 m/s (4 mph) respectively. This seasonal fluctuation in wind speed enhances the charm of Skagway’s landscape, creating a refreshing environment perfect for outdoor adventures during the late spring and summer months.
The weather in Skagway 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 Skagway and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present markedly different weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average of about 3°C (38°F). The month sees around 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 18 days, with humidity levels fairly high at 92%. In contrast, January is considerably colder, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -33°C (-27°F) and an average temperature of -10°C (15°F). It experiences a higher total precipitation of 181 mm (7.1 in) across 15 days, while maintaining similarly high humidity at 94%. For a detailed look at January weather, you can visit Skagway weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, a stark contrast emerges. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a more pleasant maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average temperature around 3°C (38°F). The precipitation levels are significant, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) across 18 days, while humidity remains fairly high at 92%. In contrast, February presents a much harsher climate, with a dramatic minimum temperature of -33°C (-28°F) and an average of -11°C (13°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation in February, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over just 12 days, the humidity remains close at 90%. For more details on February weather conditions, you can check Skagway weather in February.
May and March weather in Skagway present a stark contrast as spring takes hold. In March, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average of -7°C (21°F). This month also sees substantial precipitation at 137 mm (5.4 in) over 18 days, coupled with a humidity level of 93%. In comparison, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 16°C (62°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Although May also experiences 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over the same number of days, the humidity slightly reduces to 92%. For more information on March weather in Skagway, you can visit Skagway weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, we notice a significant warming trend as spring progresses. May features an average temperature of 3°C (38°F), with a maximum of 16°C (62°F), which is notably warmer than April's average of -1°C (30°F) and maximum of 11°C (52°F). While both months experience considerable precipitation, May records slightly more with 113 mm (4.5 in) over 18 days, compared to April's 102 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days. Interestingly, humidity remains high in both months, with April at 93% and May at 92%. For more detailed insights on April's climate, visit Skagway weather in April.
May and June present notable differences in weather conditions. May experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching only 16°C (62°F), while June sees a warmer average of 8°C (47°F) and maximums peaking at 25°C (78°F). Additionally, June has a higher humidity level at 100% compared to May's 92%. Both months receive significant precipitation, with May recording 113 mm (4.5 in) over 18 days and June slightly higher at 124 mm (4.9 in) over 20 days. For a closer look at June’s weather specifics, you can check out Skagway weather in June.
May and July present distinct shifts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a moderate maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). This month sees a significant amount of precipitation at 113 mm (4.5 in) over 18 days, coupled with high humidity levels around 92%. In contrast, July experiences much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (75°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). Precipitation in July is slightly lower at 97 mm (3.8 in), also spread across 18 days, but the humidity rises to 110%, making the air feel quite moist. For more details about the weather conditions in July, you can check Skagway weather in July.
In May, the weather is quite chilly, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of just 16°C (62°F). The month experiences a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over about 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%. Conversely, August brings warmer temperatures, with an average of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum that can reach 24°C (75°F). However, it's also a wetter month with 175 mm (6.9 in) of rainfall across 20 days, leading to even higher humidity at 117%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can visit Skagway weather in August.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average of 3°C (38°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over 18 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 92%. In contrast, September experiences slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from -7°C (20°F) at night to a comfortable 20°C (69°F) during the daytime, averaging 7°C (44°F). However, September is also wetter, receiving 162 mm (6.4 in) of precipitation over the same number of days, and the humidity increases to 105%. For a detailed look at weather conditions during this month, check out Skagway weather in September.
May and October showcase distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures begin to rise with minimums around -8°C (18°F) and averages near 3°C (38°F), reaching a maximum of 16°C (62°F). The month experiences lighter precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over 18 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 92%. In contrast, October takes a notable dip in temperatures, with minimums dropping to -16°C (4°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), peaking at just 10°C (50°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 234 mm (9.2 in) over 22 days, and humidity rises further to 98%. These factors create a damp and chilly atmosphere in October that contrasts with May's milder conditions. For more details, visit Skagway weather in October.
In comparing the weather of May and November, significant differences become apparent. May experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), peaking at a maximum of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, November brings much colder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), only rising to a maximum of 5°C (41°F). Additionally, November sees a higher level of precipitation, totaling 199 mm (7.8 in) over 20 days, compared to May's 113 mm (4.5 in) across 18 days. The humidity also remains higher in November at 96%, compared to 92% in May. For a more detailed look at November's climate, check out Skagway weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average of 3°C (38°F). This month experiences a total precipitation of 113 mm (4.5 in) over about 18 days, accompanied by high humidity at 92%. In contrast, December is significantly colder, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), peaking at a maximum of 6°C (42°F). This month is wetter, with 269 mm (10.6 in) of precipitation over 22 days, and a humidity level of 95%. For a deeper understanding of the unique climate in December, you can explore more at Skagway weather in December.
As May unfolds in Skagway, the weather begins to shift distinctly from the lingering chill of winter, offering a refreshing embrace of mild temperatures and lingering humidity. While the maximum temperature gracefully peaks at 16°C (62°F), the air remains crisp, with averages dipping to approximately 3°C (38°F) and nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping as low as -8°C (18°F). This month also welcomes increased precipitation, often falling for nearly 18 days, contributing to a vibrant, lush landscape. Compared to the colder, harsher months preceding it, May marks a significant transition, hinting at the warmer days of summer to come. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns of this enchanting destination, explore our detailed page on Skagway Climate.