Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Nevada City, United States, brings a delightful mix of warmth and occasional rainfall, making it an appealing time for outdoor activities. Temperatures can reach a maximum of 34°C (93°F), while the average settles around a comfortable 17°C (62°F). The minimum temperatures dip down to 1°C (34°F), particularly cool for late spring. During this month, residents and visitors can expect about 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation across 7 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 74%. Overall, May presents a dynamic climate that embraces the beauty of spring in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
As spring blossoms into summer, Nevada City experiences a noticeable warming trend in May. With minimum temperatures rising to 1°C (34°F) and average highs peaking at a delightful 34°C (93°F), the month offers a dynamic range that beckons outdoor enthusiasts. The average temperature climbs significantly to 17°C (62°F), marking a stark contrast to the chill of earlier months. This delightful climb prepares the landscape for vibrant blooms and outdoor activities, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the area's natural beauty under the sun. As the days grow longer and warmer, May serves as a perfect transition month, where the lingering coolness gently fades away, giving way to the full embrace of summer.
In May, Nevada City experiences a notable decline in precipitation, with 76 mm (3.0 in) falling over 7 days. This contrasts sharply with the wetter conditions of early spring, as April already marked a significant drop to 129 mm (5.1 in). The trend continues into June, where rainfall diminishes drastically to just 13 mm (0.5 in), heralding the dry summer months ahead. This gradual decrease underscores a typical Mediterranean climate pattern, shifting from the lush spring to the arid summer, providing a brief respite before the seasonal cycle begins anew.
As spring unfolds, May in Nevada City sees a noticeable dip in humidity, dropping to 74%—a refreshing change from the 81% recorded in April. This decline marks a continued trend of decreasing humidity levels as the city transitions into summer. Following the higher moisture levels typical of winter months, where humidity hovers around 84%, May heralds a shift towards drier conditions that will continue through the summer, culminating in July and August, when humidity plummets to levels as low as 36%. This gradual decrease not only enhances the warmth of the season but also signals outdoor enthusiasts that the inviting, albeit less humid, days of summer are just around the corner.
As spring transitions into summer, May marks a significant shift in the UV Index for Nevada City, reaching a peak of 10—classified as very high—with a burn time of just 15 minutes. This month follows an upward trend from the moderate exposures of January and February, gradually intensifying through high in March and reaching very high in April. The increase in UV radiation emphasizes the need for sun safety precautions as outdoor activities become more common. With the UV levels expected to remain very high into August, it's crucial for residents and visitors to stay informed and protect themselves from potential sun damage. For more detailed information, check out the Nevada City UV Index.
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As May arrives in Nevada City, the sun shines brighter and longer, marking a delightful peak in hours of sunshine with 358 hours this month. Following a steady increase from 141 hours in January, the trend continues upward through the spring. After enjoying 296 hours in April, the transition into May tantalizes residents with even more radiant days, setting the stage for the sunniest months ahead. The summer months of June and July take the crown, further elevating Nevada City's warm glow to an impressive 386 and 397 hours, respectively. This consistent upward trajectory reflects not just the beauty of the season but also invites residents and visitors to bask in the splendor of nature under the abundant sunlight.
In Nevada City, the arrival of May heralds a noticeable upswing in sunny weather, with the chances of sunshine reaching an impressive 82%. This trend reflects a steady increase from earlier months, suggesting that after a promising 72% in April, residents can eagerly anticipate even more vibrant, sun-filled days ahead. The approach of summer is evident, with June following closely with an 86% chance of sun. As we move through the spring, it's clear that May offers an inviting glimpse of the warm, radiant weather that defines the summer months, enticing locals and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors.
In Nevada City, May marks a vibrant transition into longer days, bringing an average of 14 hours of daylight that heralds the arrival of summer. This is a noticeable increase from April's 13 hours and reflects a broader trend of growing daylight as the year progresses. Starting with a modest 9 hours in January, daylight steadily lengthens, culminating in June when it peaks at 14 hours before gradually tapering off into the cooler months. As the days draw longer, Nevada City embraces the warmth and energy of late spring, fostering a lively atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities and community gatherings. The seasonal shift is both captivating and invigorating, setting the stage for a sun-filled summer ahead.
In Nevada City, the weather in May boasts an average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), mirroring the gentle breezes of the preceding months. Notably, the winds slightly taper off as the year progresses, with a gradual decline from the 2.7 m/s recorded in January to the 2.1 m/s low in July. This trend reflects a consistent calmness over the late spring and summer months, perfect for outdoor activities. As autumn approaches, the wind picks up a bit again, emphasizing the area's dynamic climate while still maintaining those delightfully mild spring conditions. Overall, May captures the essence of this serene atmosphere, offering a pleasant interlude before the winds begin to pick up once more later in the year.
The weather in Nevada City 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 Nevada City and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather profiles, highlighting the transition from spring to winter. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm average of 17°C (62°F), peaking at a scorching 34°C (93°F). The month sees approximately 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over about 7 days, coupled with a humidity level of 74%. In stark contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 21°C (71°F). This month experiences significantly higher rainfall, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) over approximately 12 days, and a higher humidity level of 84%. For a detailed look at January weather, visit Nevada City weather in January.
May typically brings a more varied range of temperatures compared to February, with min temperatures starting at 1°C (34°F) and peaking at a balmy 34°C (93°F). February, on the other hand, experiences colder conditions, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Additionally, February has significantly higher precipitation, averaging 279 mm (11.0 in) over about 10 days, whereas May sees about 76 mm (3.0 in) across 7 days. The humidity levels are notably higher in February at 84%, compared to 74% in May, making February feel cooler and wetter. For more detailed insights about February weather, you can check Nevada City weather in February.
May and March exhibit significant differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant 1°C (34°F) at night to a warm 34°C (93°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation in May is relatively low, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over just 7 days, with humidity levels around 74%. In contrast, March experiences a much cooler climate, with minimum temperatures dipping to -6°C (21°F) and an average temperature of only 9°C (48°F). There is considerably more rainfall in March, with 267 mm (10.5 in) recorded over 15 days, leading to higher humidity at 83%. For a detailed look at March's weather, you can check out Nevada City weather in March.
When comparing the weather in May to that of April, it's clear that May tends to be warmer overall. In April, the minimum temperature can drop to as low as -3°C (26°F), while in May, it only reaches a minimum of 1°C (34°F). The average temperature rises significantly from 13°C (55°F) in April to 17°C (62°F) in May, with May also experiencing a higher maximum temperature of 34°C (93°F) compared to April's 30°C (86°F).
However, April has more precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) across 9 days, compared to May's 76 mm (3.0 in) over 7 days. Additionally, April's humidity is slightly higher at 81% compared to May's 74%. For more details on April's weather, you can visit Nevada City weather in April.
May and June present a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over about 7 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 74%. In contrast, June offers warmer conditions with a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and a peak reaching 40°C (104°F), alongside an average temperature of 22°C (72°F). The month also experiences significantly less precipitation at only 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, with humidity decreasing to 64%. For more detailed insights, you can check Nevada City weather in June.
May weather is characterized by a wide temperature range, with minimums dipping to 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching up to 34°C (93°F). This month also brings considerable precipitation, averaging 76 mm (3.0 in) over about 7 days, contributing to higher humidity levels at around 74%. In contrast, July experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F), an average of 26°C (79°F), and soaring maximums of up to 41°C (105°F). Notably, July is extremely dry, with only 1 mm of precipitation and no rainy days, leading to a significantly lower humidity of 44%. For more specific details, check out Nevada City weather in July.
May experiences a wide range of temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, with 76 mm (3.0 in) over about 7 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, August offers much warmer weather, featuring a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and soaring to a maximum of 39°C (103°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). Notably, August is extremely dry with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation over the entire month and hardly any humid days, as it maintains a much lower humidity level of 36%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can refer to Nevada City weather in August.
When comparing the weather in May and September, notable differences emerge. May experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to 1°C (34°F) and maximums peaking at 34°C (93°F), while the average temperature is around 17°C (62°F). It also sees more precipitation, averaging 76 mm (3.0 in) over about seven days, along with higher humidity at 74%. In contrast, September is generally warmer, with minimum temperatures of 5°C (41°F) and maximums soaring to 41°C (106°F), resulting in an average of 21°C (70°F). Notably, it has significantly less rainfall, totaling just 23 mm (0.9 in) over two days, and a much lower humidity level at 44%. For more details on September weather specifically, you can check out Nevada City weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, one notable difference is the average temperature; May boasts a higher average of 17°C (62°F) compared to October's average of 15°C (60°F). Both months experience a range of temperatures that can peak at 34°C (93°F in May and 94°F in October), indicating that warm days are typical for both. However, May has a higher precipitation level at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 7 days, while October sees slightly more precipitation at 78 mm (3.1 in) but over only 3 days, resulting in lower overall humidity levels of 65% compared to May's 74%. For more detailed insights on October's weather, you can check out Nevada City weather in October.
May and November showcase contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late fall. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over 7 days and a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, November sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F), reaching up to 27°C (81°F) at its warmest. The month is wetter, recording 157 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation over the same number of days, accompanied by a higher humidity of 84%. For more specifics on the weather during this time, you can refer to Nevada City weather in November.
May and December present notably different weather patterns, showcasing a transition from spring to winter. In May, average temperatures hover around a pleasant 17°C (62°F), with highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F), while precipitation is relatively modest at 76 mm over 7 days and humidity sits at 74%. In contrast, December experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of only 22°C (72°F). The month is much wetter, receiving 215 mm of precipitation across 11 days and higher humidity at 83%. For a closer look at December weather specifics, visit Nevada City weather in December.
As May rolls into Nevada City, the weather transitions into a delightful blend of warmth and moisture, setting it apart from the cooler months that precede it. With average temperatures reaching a pleasant 17°C (62°F) and the potential for warmer days peaking at 34°C (93°F), residents can enjoy the increasing sunshine while still expecting some refreshingly cool nights. May also brings a moderate dose of rainfall, with about 76 mm falling over approximately seven days, contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes this charming area. The humidity lingers at around 74%, adding a touch of softness to the air. As you revel in May's beauty, be sure to check out Nevada City Climate for a deeper dive into what to expect year-round.