Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Denver, May reveals a vibrant mix of spring warmth and occasional showers. With maximum temperatures soaring to 33°C (91°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), the month invites outdoor activities amid the gentle embrace of sunshine. However, the weather can be unpredictable, as 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation falls over 14 days, contributing to a humidity level of around 66%. This combination of conditions ensures that while the days are warm, evening temperatures can dip to a refreshing -6°C (21°F), highlighting the city's dynamic climate during this transitional month.
As spring unfolds in Denver, United States, May ushers in a noticeable warmth, transitioning the city from the chill of winter to the vibrant energy of summer. With temperatures ranging from a crisp -6°C (21°F) at night to a sizzling 33°C (91°F) during the day, the average temperature of 13°C (56°F) marks a significant rise compared to the preceding months. This trend reflects a shift from the brisk early spring temperatures, highlighting May as a month of blossoming potential and outdoor activities. While the weather can still show its transitional nature, with chilly nights giving way to pleasantly warm days, the increase in warmth not only invigorates the environment but also encourages locals and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors, making it a delightful time to explore the city.
In May, Denver experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, with an impressive 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain falling over 14 days, marking it as one of the wettest months of the year. This surge follows the milder, albeit drier, spring months of April and March, where rainfall generally hovers around 55 mm (2.2 in) and 57 mm (2.3 in), respectively. The increase in moisture not only nourishes the blossoming landscape but also showcases the transition into the summer season. This trend of heightened rainfall in May contrasts with the drier summer months that follow, where precipitation drops to 48 mm in June and continues to decline through July and August. As the weather shifts, May stands out as a time of renewal, setting the stage for lush growth in the weeks ahead.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Denver brings a noticeable dip in humidity, settling at 66%. This marks a significant drop from the winter months, where humidity levels hover in the mid to high 80s. April, with its 76% humidity, sets the stage for this shift, as the city starts to shake off the chill of winter. The decrease continues into June, where humidity further drops to 58%. This trend indicates a transition toward drier conditions, characteristic of Denver's warm summer months, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities and exploration. As the season progresses, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the crisp, comfortable air that defines this dynamic city.
In May, Denver experiences one of its highest UV Index readings of the year, peaking at 12, which places it in the extreme exposure category. This significant elevation in UV levels means that individuals should exercise caution, as the time it takes for skin to burn is only 10 minutes. Following a trend observed since March, when the index sharply rose from a moderate 4 to an extreme 11 in April, May's UV levels continue to demand attention for sun safety. As the days get longer and sunnier, it’s crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and protected. For more detailed information on daily UV levels, check out Denver UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Denver basks in the glory of 335 hours of sunshine, a vibrant peak that heralds the transition to summer. This month marks a remarkable upward trend from the 309 hours in April, showcasing the city's gradual embrace of more radiant days. Following the sunshine-laden months of March and April, May continues this uplifting trajectory, hinting at the approaching warmth of June, which boasts a striking 371 hours. The consistent increase in sunlight not only brightens the city but also invigorates outdoor activities, making May a delightful time for residents and visitors alike to relish the beauty of the Colorado landscape under clear, sunlit skies.
In Denver, the likelihood of sunny weather in May sees a noticeable dip compared to the preceding spring months, with a 43% chance of sunshine. This marks a shift from the sunny disposition of earlier months like January through April, which boast higher percentages generally hovering around the 50s. Interestingly, the trend reverses in June, where the chance of sun bounces back to 56%, leading the way into a sun-soaked summer. This fluctuation highlights a distinctive pattern in Denver's climate, where spring starts strong but paves the way for more reliable sunshine as summer approaches.
As May arrives in Denver, the days continue to lengthen, offering 14 hours of daylight—an inviting increase from the 13 hours of April. This upward trend in daylight has been steadily building since January's modest 9 hours, with a gradual progression through February and March. The spring months reflect the city's awakening, as the increasing sunlight fosters a vibrant atmosphere, encouraging outdoor activities and social gatherings. In contrast, as summer approaches, daylight remains abundant in June and July, before shifting back in August and heralding the approach of autumn. Overall, May stands as a highlight in the seasonal transition, where the balance of light enhances the beauty of Denver’s landscapes.
In May, Denver experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), mirroring the tranquility felt in the months that follow spring's vibrant bloom. Throughout the year, the wind speed fluctuates slightly, peaking in December at 2.8 m/s (6 mph) and maintaining a steady pace during the warmer months with values that mostly hover around the 5 to 6 mph range. This mild wind pattern in May indicates a transition from spring's refreshing gusts to the steadier summer breezes, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike in the surrounding foothills.
The weather in Denver 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 Denver and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at their lowest to a warm 33°C (91°F) at their peak, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 14 days, while humidity hovers around 66%. In contrast, January experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -23°C (-10°F) and averaging -1°C (31°F) with a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is notably lower in January, averaging only 23 mm (0.9 in) over 4 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels of 88%. For more details, check out Denver weather in January.
May and February present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures vary widely, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (91°F), leading to an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over about 14 days, paired with a moderate humidity level of 66%. In contrast, February is much colder, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -25°C (-12°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging at -1°C (30°F). This month sees significantly less precipitation at 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days and higher humidity levels at 87%. For more details on February weather, check Denver weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, it's clear that May is generally much milder and warmer. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F), while March experiences a colder range with a minimum of -20°C (-5°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging just 4°C (40°F). Additionally, May sees more precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, compared to March's 57 mm (2.3 in) over 9 days. Despite May's higher humidity level at 66%, March's humidity is noticeably higher at 81%, contributing to a different feel in the atmosphere. For more detailed insights, check Denver weather in March.
May weather features a broader temperature range compared to April, with minimum temperatures dropping to -6°C (21°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). In contrast, April’s temperatures are generally cooler, with a minimum of -14°C (8°F), an average of 8°C (47°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). While May experiences more precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, April has less rainfall with 55 mm (2.2 in) across 10 days. Interestingly, humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 66%, compared to April's 76%, making the latter feel more humid overall. For more details, you can check Denver weather in April.
May weather is characterized by a broader temperature range, with minimums reaching as low as -6°C (21°F) and daytime highs peaking at a warm 33°C (91°F). This month also sees more precipitation, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 66%. In contrast, June experiences milder nights with minimum temperatures of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). The maximum temperature can soar to 37°C (99°F), but the overall precipitation decreases to 48 mm (1.9 in) over just 9 days, resulting in a lower humidity of 58%. For more details on the weather in June, you can visit Denver weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we see a noticeable shift in temperatures and precipitation levels. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping as low as -6°C (21°F) and maximums peaking at 33°C (91°F). The average temperature rests at 13°C (56°F). In contrast, July offers milder mornings with a minimum temperature of 10°C (51°F) and a comfortable average of 23°C (74°F), reaching a maximum of 36°C (98°F). Precipitation also differs significantly; May sees 111 mm (4.4 in) spread over 14 days, while July has a much drier profile with only 43 mm (1.7 in) over 9 days. Additionally, the humidity is higher in May at 66%, compared to 52% in July. For more detailed information, you can check Denver weather in July.
May and August exhibit distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range widely from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a warm 33°C (91°F) during the day, with an average temperature around 13°C (56°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over about 14 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 66%. Conversely, August offers milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). The precipitation is considerably less at 35 mm (1.4 in) over just 7 days, leading to a lower humidity level of 56%. For more detailed insights, check out Denver weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May experiences a broader temperature range, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum that can reach up to 33°C (91°F), while the average temperature sits at around 13°C (56°F). In contrast, September offers milder conditions, with minimums around -2°C (30°F) and maximums peaking at 36°C (98°F), leading to a higher average of 19°C (66°F). Rainfall also varies significantly; May sees 111 mm (4.4 inches) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, whereas September is much drier, recording only 29 mm (1.2 inches) across 5 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with May at 66% and September at 65%, indicating a comparable level of moisture in the air. For more detailed insights into the weather dynamics of September, you can check Denver weather in September.
May and October present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range widely from a chilly -6°C (21°F) to a warm 33°C (91°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), while October experiences cooler nights with a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and an average temperature of 9°C (49°F). May tends to be wetter, with 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over about 14 days, compared to October's milder 37 mm (1.5 in) spread over just 7 days. Humidity levels also vary, with October being slightly more humid at 76%, compared to May's 66%. For a more detailed look at October weather, please visit Denver weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a cool -6°C (21°F) at night to a warm 33°C (91°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 14 days, while humidity sits at a comfortable 66%. In stark contrast, November features much colder conditions, with overnight lows dropping to -16°C (3°F) and daytime highs reaching only 25°C (78°F), averaging around 5°C (41°F). The month is relatively drier, experiencing just 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over about 4 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 82%. For more detailed insights, check out Denver weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a comfortable average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (91°F). This month also sees relatively high precipitation, with 111 mm (4.4 in) falling over about 14 days and humidity around 66%. In stark contrast, December experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures dropping as low as -19°C (-1°F) and averaging just 1°C (34°F), with a maximum of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation in December is significantly lower at 14 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, but humidity rises to a higher level at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check out Denver weather in December.
As spring transitions to summer, May in Denver offers a notable shift in weather that sets it apart from other months. With temperatures averaging around 13°C (56°F), it presents a warm embrace, often reaching peaks of 33°C (91°F), but also capable of dipping to -6°C (21°F). This month tends to be wetter than its preceding months, with 14 days of precipitation contributing to a total of 111 mm (4.4 in). The humidity hovers around 66%, creating a unique blend of warm days and cooler nights, perfect for enjoying the city's outdoor charm. For a more comprehensive look at what to expect throughout the year, explore Denver Climate.