May Weather in Columbia, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Columbia, United States, ushers in a delightful blend of warm temperatures and refreshing spring rain. With a maximum temperature peaking at 35°C (94°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), residents can expect pleasant days interspersed with cooler nights that drop to a minimum of 3°C (37°F). Rainfall is moderate, with an average of 49 mm (1.9 in) spread over five days, contributing to the area's lush greenery. Coupled with a humidity level of 71%, May presents a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities amidst the blooming landscapes.

May Temperature in Columbia

In May, Columbia experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures showing a noticeable uptick. The month starts with minimums around 3°C (37°F), offering a refreshing start to the warmer days. As the days progress, the average temperature rises to a comfortable 17°C (63°F), allowing residents and visitors to enjoy more outdoor activities. Maximum temperatures soar to 35°C (94°F), marking a significant increase compared to the cooler months. This trend of rising temperatures sets the stage for the approaching summer, highlighting May as a month of vibrant transformation in Columbia, where spring blossoms into the warmth of early summer.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Columbia, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec464751576372787772625246
Data source: Temperature data for Columbia generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Columbia

In May, Columbia experiences a significant drop in precipitation, with only 49 mm (1.9 in) recorded over just 5 days. This stark contrast to the wetter months preceding it, particularly March with 197 mm (7.7 in), marks May as a turning point toward drier conditions. Following April's moderate rainfall of 83 mm (3.3 in), the onset of late spring leads to a noticeable decline, as June and July herald even drier spells, showcasing a trends towards a more arid summer environment. This pattern not only reflects seasonal shifts but also hints at the region's transition from the lushness of spring to the dry warmth of approaching summer.

May Precipitation Trends in Columbia

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Columbia, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec183180197834940144489148
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Columbia

As spring transitions into summer, May brings a noticeable dip in humidity levels in Columbia, United States, settling at 71%. This decline marks a significant shift from the higher humidity of earlier months, such as January and February, which hovered around 82% and 84% respectively. The pattern suggests that as the year progresses toward the hotter months, moisture in the air begins to wane, paving the way for the more comfortable and drier conditions of June, where humidity drops further to 64%. This trend not only enhances the outdoor experience during May but also sets the stage for the increasingly pleasant summer ahead, reflecting the region's seasonal transition.

May Average Humidity in Columbia

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Columbia, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%84%82%78%71%64%59%54%55%62%78%80%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Columbia

In May, Columbia experiences a significant escalation in UV exposure, with the UV Index soaring to 11, categorizing it as extreme and shortening the recommended burn time to just 10 minutes. This follows a steady increase from the moderate levels of January and February, reaching very high levels in March and April. The month of May marks the pinnacle of sun intensity before a plateau in June, where conditions remain equally intense but stabilize. It’s a crucial period for sun safety, as the dramatic shift in UV radiation underscores the importance of protection against harmful rays. For more details on the UV Index throughout the year, visit Columbia UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Columbia for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Columbia 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3589111111109743
Data source: Columbia 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 Columbia

May in Columbia, United States, is a delightful transition into summer, basking in an impressive 363 hours of sunshine. This surge in daylight marks a significant increase from the preceding months, showcasing a steady upward trend that began with 159 hours in January and steadily climbed to 306 hours by April. As nature awakens fully, May stands out not only for its abundant sunshine but also as a precursor to the even sunnier days of June and July, which reach peaks of 388 and 396 hours, respectively. The gradual buildup of sunlight fosters vibrant outdoor activities, making May a shining example of the spring season in Columbia.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Columbia: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Columbia 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec159h214h260h306h363h388h396h364h321h290h234h203h
Data source: Columbia May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Columbia During May

As spring transitions into summer, the likelihood of sunny weather in Columbia, United States, experiences a significant uptick. In May, the chance of sunshine reaches an impressive 87%, marking a delightful leap from 72% in April. This trend continues into the early summer months, with June boasting an even higher probability of 88% sunshine. Strikingly, the sun shines brightly as summer progresses, peaking in August at 96%. This consistent increase in sunny days not only enhances the appeal of outdoor activities but also signals the onset of warm, vibrant days that characterize the region's late spring and summer seasons. With each passing month, Columbia transforms into a sun-soaked paradise, encouraging residents and visitors alike to embrace the great outdoors.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Columbia

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Columbia 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 Columbia experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44%57%60%73%87%89%83%96%89%62%62%40%
Data source: Columbia May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Columbia in May

As spring gives way to summer in Columbia, United States, daylight hours gradually increase, peaking in May with an impressive 14 hours of sunlight. This month serves as a delightful transition, showcasing nature's vibrant revival as days grow longer and warmer. Following May, daylight remains abundant through June and July, maintaining that same uplifting 14 hours. However, as summer wanes, the trend gently shifts; daylight hours begin to decrease, leading into shorter days in August and then tapering off as autumn approaches. The journey of daylight duration throughout the year not only marks the changing seasons but also invites residents to savor the warmth and vibrancy of longer days during the peak of spring and summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Columbia for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Columbia throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 51m10h 47m11h 59m13h 12m14h 14m14h 45m14h 28m13h 33m12h 22m11h 9m10h 5m9h 33m
Data source: Columbia daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Columbia

As May unfolds in Columbia, the wind begins to pick up, with an average speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), signaling the onset of warmer days. This slight increase from April's 2.3 m/s (5 mph) is indicative of spring's vibrant transition toward summer, as the region experiences a gentle yet noticeable lift in breezy conditions. Following May, the winds ease slightly in June but remain consistent, illustrating a trend where late spring brings just enough air movement to breathe life into the blossoming scenery. The persistent mild winds through these months contribute to an invigorating outdoor experience, creating the perfect backdrop for leisurely activities amidst nature's awakening. As the seasons shift, these subtle variations remind us of the dynamic environment that characterizes Columbia's weather.

Average May Wind Speed in Columbia

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Columbia, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.32.22.22.32.6 m/s2.52.42.32.32.31.82.4
Data source: Columbia May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Columbia Compares to Other Months

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

When comparing the weather in May and January, a stark contrast emerges. May averages a more pleasant temperature range, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum reaching 35°C (94°F), making it a warm month ideal for outdoor activities. In contrast, January brings much colder conditions with temperatures plummeting as low as -6°C (22°F) and only reaching a maximum of 22°C (73°F). Additionally, January experiences significantly higher precipitation, averaging 183 mm (7.2 in) across about eight days, compared to May's 49 mm (1.9 in) over five days. The humidity also tends to be higher in January at 82% compared to May's 71%. For a closer look at January weather specifics, you can explore Columbia weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, we see a notable contrast in temperatures and precipitation. May experiences a temperature range with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 35°C (94°F), offering a warm average of 17°C (63°F). In contrast, February is significantly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average temperature of just 8°C (47°F). February also sees more substantial precipitation, totaling 180 mm (7.1 in) over 9 days, compared to May's 49 mm (1.9 in) over 5 days. Additionally, February has higher humidity levels at 84% compared to May's 71%. For more detailed information, visit Columbia weather in February.

When comparing the weather in March and May, significant differences become apparent. March tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while May boasts a milder minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a much warmer average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 35°C (94°F). Additionally, March experiences much higher precipitation, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) over 13 days, compared to May's 49 mm (1.9 in) across just 5 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in March at 82%, compared to 71% in May, giving a clearer picture of the seasonal transition. For more details, check out Columbia weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a significant rise in temperatures. April experiences a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), while May sees a minimum of 3°C (37°F) with an average of 17°C (63°F). The maximum temperatures also increase, with April peaking at 30°C (87°F) compared to May's maximum of 35°C (94°F). Precipitation in April is higher at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 6 days, whereas May sees 49 mm (1.9 in) over just 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 71%, compared to 78% in April. For a closer look at April's weather patterns, you can visit Columbia weather in April.

May and June present contrasting weather patterns, with May exhibiting a broader range of temperatures and higher humidity levels. May experiences minimum temperatures as low as 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 35°C (94°F), along with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 5 days. In comparison, June boasts a warmer average temperature of 22°C (73°F) and a more stable range, with minimums starting at 8°C (46°F) and maximums peaking at 39°C (103°F). Additionally, June is drier, receiving only 4 mm (0.1 in) of rain in just 1 day, and experiences a slightly lower humidity at 64%. For more detailed information about weather in June, you can visit Columbia weather in June.

The weather in May is characterized by a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 35°C (94°F). This month experiences average temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and a relatively high humidity level of 71%, accompanied by 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over five days. In contrast, July brings a much warmer and drier climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 13°C (55°F) and maximums soaring to 39°C (103°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). July boasts no precipitation at all, with humidity levels significantly lower at 58%, which enhances the feeling of heat during the summer. For more details, you can check the Columbia weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather profiles, marked by significant differences in temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a warm average of 17°C (63°F), with occasional peaks reaching 35°C (94°F). This month is also characterized by relatively high humidity at 71% and an average of 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over five days. In contrast, August showcases much warmer conditions, with minimums of 12°C (54°F), an average of 25°C (78°F), and maximums soaring up to 40°C (105°F). Notably, August is dry, experiencing no precipitation and lower humidity at 54%. For more details on weather trends in August, you can check Columbia weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from spring to early autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (94°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). This month also sees moderate rainfall, with about 49 mm (1.9 in) over 5 days and higher humidity at 71%. In contrast, September offers a warmer experience, featuring a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) and soaring to a maximum of 40°C (105°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 4 mm (0.2 in) over a single day, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 55%. For more about the delightful weather in September, visit Columbia weather in September.

May and October exhibit mild temperatures, though October tends to be slightly cooler. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 35°C (94°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). In contrast, October has a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and reaches a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging at 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is fairly comparable, with May receiving 49 mm (1.9 in) over 5 days, while October sees 44 mm (1.7 in) but only over 2 days. Additionally, humidity levels in May are higher at 71%, compared to 62% in October. For more details, check out Columbia weather in October.

May and November present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm average of 17°C (63°F) during the day, peaking at a sizzling 35°C (94°F); the month sees an average precipitation of 49 mm (1.9 in) over about five days, with humidity at 71%. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to -1°C (30°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), while the maximum temperature reaches a milder 27°C (80°F). This month also receives more precipitation at 89 mm (3.5 in) across six days and higher humidity levels at 78%. For a deeper dive into what to expect, check out Columbia weather in November.

May and December present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 35°C (94°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F) providing warm and often sunny days. Rainfall is relatively light, averaging 49 mm (1.9 in) over approximately five days, and humidity sits at a moderate 71%.

In contrast, December's temperatures are significantly lower, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). This month experiences increased precipitation, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) spread over about nine days, and higher humidity levels at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check the link Columbia weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Columbia

As spring gives way to summer, May in Columbia showcases a charming blend of warm days and cooler evenings, making it a unique transition month compared to the chilly temperatures of earlier spring. With an average temperature that climbs, yet still manages refreshing nights, May delivers a notable departure from the harsher winter months. Although precipitation is relatively low, the humidity levels can create a mild, comfortable atmosphere. This month’s weather is a delightful precursor to the hotter summer days that lie ahead, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors before the heat sets in. For more insights on what to expect throughout the year, explore the details at Columbia Climate.