May Weather in Fort Collins, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In May, Fort Collins, United States, experiences a dynamic weather profile characterized by maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F), while the average temperature settles around 13°C (56°F). The month also sees fluctuations as minimum temperatures dip to -3°C (27°F), offering a stark contrast. With 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread across 14 days, residents can expect a mix of sunshine and rain, contributing to a humidity level of 67% that enhances the springtime ambiance. This varied climatic tapestry makes May an intriguing time to explore the beauty of Fort Collins.

May Temperature in Fort Collins

In Fort Collins, United States, May marks a significant transition in temperatures as spring unfolds, with minimums averaging -3°C (27°F) and maximums reaching an inviting 31°C (88°F). This month enjoys an average temperature of 13°C (56°F), signaling a warm welcome to the approaching summer days. As the seasons shift, residents and visitors alike experience a noticeable rise in temperatures compared to the lingering chill of earlier months: January through April. May not only offers a respite from the frigid winter lows but also hints at the balmy warmth of summer, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities in this vibrant city.

May Weather in Fort Collins: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Fort Collins, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec302940475568747265484033
Data source: Temperature data for Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins

May proves to be a significant month for rainfall in Fort Collins, marking a sharp increase in precipitation compared to the earlier months of the year. With 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain spread over 14 days, it becomes the wettest month, highlighting a notable transition into the summer season. This is a striking rise from the 53 mm (2.1 in) recorded in both March and April, signaling a potential shift in weather patterns as the region gears up for warmer temperatures. The increase in rainy days also reflects a deeper commitment from the skies, making May not just a lush backdrop for outdoor activities, but also an essential time for water replenishment before the drier summer months arrive. The rhythm of rain in May sets the stage for the blooming landscape of Fort Collins, blending nature's beauty with the necessity of seasonal irrigation.

May Precipitation Trends in Fort Collins

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Fort Collins, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1723535311640303726362116
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Fort Collins

In Fort Collins, the humidity in May holds steady at 67%, mirroring the slight dip observed in April. This trend of decreasing humidity, which began in March when it peaked at 75%, continues through to the early summer months. As the year progresses, humidity levels generally trend downward, reaching a low of 62% in July. This gradual decline highlights a transition from the colder winter months, where humidity hovers between 84% and 85%, to the more temperate summer season. Fort Collins enjoys comfortable and moderate humidity in May, setting a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities as spring transitions into summer.

May Average Humidity in Fort Collins

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Fort Collins, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%86%75%67%67%68%62%63%63%72%80%85%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Fort Collins

As May arrives in Fort Collins, the UV Index remains at a striking 11, classifying it as extreme and maintaining the same burn time of 10 minutes as in April. This trend of escalating UV levels that started in March—at 8—peaking in April and May signifies that residents must take extra precautions against the sun's harsh rays. With the forthcoming summer months, featuring even higher indices in June and July, it’s vital to prioritize sun safety. Remember, the intensity of UV radiation soars in these spring months, making awareness essential for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, check the Fort Collins UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Fort Collins for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Fort Collins 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46811111212119643
Data source: Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins

May in Fort Collins shines brightly, with an impressive 327 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful transition into summer. This uptick in sunlight is part of a consistent upward trend from earlier months, where the hours gradually increase from 185 hours in January to 300 hours in April. With each passing month, the days grow longer and warmer, culminating in June, which tops the chart with 374 hours. As the seasons change, Fort Collins embraces the sun with open arms, providing a vibrant backdrop for outdoor activities and community events. The increasing daylight not only enhances the beauty of the area but also uplifts the spirit as residents revel in the splendor of spring.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Fort Collins: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Fort Collins 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec185h234h285h300h327h374h382h352h306h272h248h237h
Data source: Fort Collins May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Fort Collins During May

In Fort Collins, May brings a noticeable dip in sunny weather, with a 39% chance of sunshine, making it one of the less favorable months for sun-seekers. This decline follows a gradual increase in sunny days throughout the previous months, peaking at 51% in April. As the year progresses into summer, the likelihood of sunny weather begins to rise again dramatically, with June experiencing a jump to 57% and reaching up to 66% in August. This trend highlights a shift from the mixed weather typical of early spring to the more sun-drenched days of summer, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities that the region has to offer.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Fort Collins

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec56%49%50%51%39%57%62%66%69%65%62%66%
Data source: Fort Collins May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Fort Collins in May

As spring unfolds in Fort Collins, May heralds a delightful increase in daylight, offering residents a generous 14 hours of sunshine. This vibrant month solidifies an upward trend initiated in March, where the days began to stretch longer, gradually blooming into the lengthiest daylight of the year in June. Following May, daylight slightly dips in July but remains abundant at 14 hours, before gradually retreating as summer gives way to fall. The progression from the short, wintry days of January, with just 9 hours of light, to the brisk 14 hours in May not only marks the arrival of warmer weather but also invites a spirit of outdoor adventure and renewed energy in the community.

Average Daylight Hours in Fort Collins for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Fort Collins throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 38m10h 40m11h 58m13h 19m14h 26m15h14h 41m13h 41m12h 24m11h 4m9h 54m9h 19m
Data source: Fort Collins daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Fort Collins

In May, Fort Collins experiences a mild average wind speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), which is consistent with the gentle breezes typical of the late spring season. A slight decline from April's slightly higher 2.7 m/s indicates a trend toward calmer conditions as the weather warms, creating a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. This month’s wind speeds are emblematic of the overall stability in the region's wind patterns, as they generally hover around the 5 mph mark throughout much of the year. Overall, the breezy yet tranquil atmosphere of May invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy the scenic beauty of Fort Collins with the pleasant sounds of nature accompanying them.

Average May Wind Speed in Fort Collins

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Fort Collins, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.42.52.42.72.3 m/s2.32.12.42.42.52.42.4
Data source: Fort Collins May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Fort Collins Compares to Other Months

The weather in Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures swing from a chilly -3°C (27°F) to a warm peak of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). The month also sees moderate precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, coupled with a humidity level of 67%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F). Precipitation is minimal, totaling only 17 mm (0.7 in) over just 4 days, and humidity is notably higher at 84%. For more details about January weather, check out Fort Collins weather in January.

May and February present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), while February experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging -2°C (29°F). May also sees significantly more precipitation at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, compared to February's 23 mm (0.9 in) over just 6 days. Additionally, the humidity in February is higher at 85%, while May sits at a lower 67%. For a detailed look at February weather in Fort Collins, you can visit Fort Collins weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, it is clear that May offers significantly milder temperatures and more variability. While March experiences chillier conditions with a minimum temperature of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of only 4°C (40°F), May sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). Additionally, precipitation in May is higher, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, compared to March's 53 mm (2.1 in) over just 9 days. Humidity is also slightly lower in May at 67%, compared to 75% in March. For more details, check out Fort Collins weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, one can observe a notable transition as spring progresses. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at 31°C (88°F), which marks a significant warming trend compared to April's temperatures, which fluctuate between -13°C (9°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, compared to April's 53 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days, while both months maintain similar humidity levels at 67%. This increased rainfall in May might indicate a shift towards responsible gardening and blooming flowers, making it a vibrant month following the chill of April. For more details on April’s climate, visit Fort Collins weather in April.

May and June weather show a significant transition as spring shifts into summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a warmer maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, and maintains a humidity level of 67%. In contrast, June boasts milder nighttime temperatures with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a much higher average of 20°C (68°F), reaching a peak of 38°C (100°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 8 days, and humidity slightly increases to 68%. For more detailed information, you can view the Fort Collins weather in June.

May and July exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month is quite wet, with precipitation totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, contributing to a humidity level of 67%. In contrast, July brings significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a mild 9°C (49°F) and peaking at 37°C (99°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). The rainfall in July is much lighter, with only 30 mm (1.2 in) falling over 6 days, and humidity slightly lower at 62%. For more detailed information, check out Fort Collins weather in July.

When comparing the weather in May and August, it's clear that May experiences a broader range of temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), while August has a milder temperature range, with lows of 10°C (50°F) and highs of 36°C (98°F). May is also marked by higher precipitation, averaging 116 mm (4.6 inches) over 14 days, compared to August's significantly lower 37 mm (1.5 inches) during just 6 days of rain. Additionally, May features slightly higher humidity at 67%, whereas August's humidity levels are a touch lower at 63%. For more detailed information, you can check Fort Collins weather in August.

May and September present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range significantly, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (88°F). The month is marked by higher precipitation, averaging 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 67%. In contrast, September enjoys a milder climate with a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) and a comfortable average of 19°C (66°F), reaching up to 37°C (99°F) at its peak. Precipitation drops dramatically to just 26 mm (1.0 in) over 4 days, suggesting drier conditions and slightly lower humidity at 63%. For more details, you can check Fort Collins weather in September.

May and October present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to fall. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 14 days, while the humidity hovers around 67%. In contrast, October features a wider temperature variation, with minimums dipping to -16°C (3°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F), averaging 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is significantly less, totaling 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 7 days, and humidity slightly increases to 72%. For more details about the weather in October, you can check Fort Collins weather in October.

May and November exhibit contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range significantly, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (88°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 14 days, and a moderate humidity of 67%.

In stark contrast, November sees much colder averages, with minimum temperatures dropping to -15°C (6°F) and an average of just 4°C (40°F), although it can still reach a maximum of 25°C (77°F) on milder days. The month is much drier, receiving only 21 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation across about 5 days, while humidity rises to 79%. For more detailed information, you can visit Fort Collins weather in November.

May and December showcase starkly contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a frosty low of -3°C (27°F) to a warm high of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) across about 14 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 67%. In contrast, December presents a much colder climate, with temperatures dipping as low as -16°C (3°F) and peaking at a mild 22°C (72°F), averaging around 1°C (33°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 16 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, and the humidity rises to a chilly 85%. For more insight into December's weather specifics, you can visit Fort Collins weather in December.

Compare Fort Collins's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Fort Collins

As May unfolds in Fort Collins, the weather begins to transition from the cool days of spring to the warmth of early summer. With temperatures ranging from chilly nights to pleasant afternoons, this month offers a delightful variety. While the average temperature hovers around a comfortable level, occasional heat spikes can surprise the unprepared. May is also marked by increased precipitation, with rain nourishing the landscape and contributing to a lush setting, making it distinct from the dryer months ahead. Although the humidity rises slightly, it adds to the refreshing feel of spring before the summer heat settles in. For a more detailed look at what you can expect throughout the year, visit Fort Collins Climate.