Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Vail, United States, brings a unique blend of springtime charm and fluctuating temperatures. With maximum highs reaching 21°C (70°F) and dipping to a minimum of -13°C (8°F), the average temperature hovers around a brisk 3°C (38°F). This month is characterized by a notable precipitation amount of 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. The humidity levels settle at a moderate 66%, creating a refreshing atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. Whether you're hiking the scenic trails or enjoying local festivities, Vail in May offers a vibrant yet unpredictable climate that captures the essence of spring in the mountains.
In May, Vail, United States, begins to shake off the lingering chill of winter, with temperatures gradually rising as spring progresses. The minimum temperature hovers around -13°C (8°F), while the average warms up to a comfortable 3°C (38°F), and the maximum can reach a delightful 21°C (70°F)—a stark contrast to the bone-chilling lows of January and February. This progressive warming signifies a shift from winter sports to outdoor activities as the scenery transforms, inviting nature lovers to explore the stunning landscapes. Overall, May is a month of rejuvenation, where the vibrant signs of spring emerge, making Vail an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those eager to bask in the fresh mountain air.
In May, Vail experiences a moderate precipitation pattern, receiving about 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days. This marks a slight decrease from the previous month, April, which brought more substantial rainfall at 75 mm. Following the trends of late spring, May's weather creates a lush backdrop for outdoor activities, balancing enough moisture to nourish the vibrant blooms without the heavy rainfall often seen earlier in the season. As temperatures rise and alpine scenery beckons, the tapering of precipitation in June suggests a transition towards drier months ahead, with the region's idyllic charm firmly intact.
As May arrives in Vail, the transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring is reflected in the humidity levels, which dip to a comfortable 66%. This marks a noticeable shift from the high humidity of the winter months, where levels hovered around 88% in January and 87% in February. The gradual decline throughout the spring culminates in May, offering a refreshing reprieve before summer sets in with even lower humidity levels in June at 58% and July at 52%. This trend highlights Vail’s unique climate, where the crisp, dry air of late spring and early summer is perfect for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Rockies.
As May rolls into Vail, the UV Index escalates to a striking 13, placing it within the extreme exposure category. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, sun safety is crucial. This spike in UV levels follows a clear trend from the previous months, where the index jumped from 4 in January to 9 by March, then soared to 12 in April. The progression highlights the increasing intensity of sunlight as spring unfolds, setting the stage for the summer months that follow. With UV exposure beginning to peak in May, residents and visitors alike should be prepared. For more detailed insights, check out Vail UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As spring unfolds in Vail, May shines brightly with an impressive 359 hours of sunshine, marking a peak in daylight hours that sets the stage for a vibrant outdoor experience. The trend towards longer, sunnier days is evident as the month transitions from the 315 hours in April, showcasing a notable increase that continues through the early summer months. This pattern peaks in June with 384 hours, after which the sunshine begins to taper slightly in July and August. With each passing month, the warmth of the sun not only enhances the beauty of the surrounding landscapes but also invites both locals and visitors to indulge in the numerous recreational activities that Vail has to offer, all under the glorious embrace of May's abundant sunlight.
May in Vail, United States, offers a moderately sunny outlook with a 46% chance of sunshine, slightly lower than the preceding month, April, which enjoys a 54% chance. As spring transitions into summer, the likelihood of sunny days begins to rise, paving the way for the sunnier months ahead, particularly June and August, where chances soar to 59% and 68%, respectively. This trend highlights a gradual increase in brightness as the year progresses, making May an ideal time for those seeking to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Vail, even if the sun might not be shining as brightly as in the summer months.
As spring blossoms into summer, Vail, United States, experiences a delightful surge in daylight hours. In May, residents and visitors alike enjoy a generous 14 hours of sunlight, marking a peak that remains steady into June and July. This gradual increase from 9 hours in January to its May zenith highlights the transition from winter's retreat to the vibrant energy of summer. As the days grow longer, the natural beauty of Vail is bathed in sunlight, inviting outdoor adventures and community gatherings. However, as summer wanes into autumn, daylight begins to gently recede, with 12 hours in September, before settling back to 9 hours by December, reminding us of nature’s rhythmic cycle.
In Vail, United States, May experiences an average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), which is consistent with the mild breezes seen in the preceding months. Notably, the wind speeds maintain a generally stable pattern, with January through April ranging from 2.0 m/s to 2.6 m/s. As spring transitions into summer, the wind speeds slightly dip in June to 2.0 m/s (4 mph), mirroring a gradual decline observed during the warmer months. While the wind speeds are relatively gentle throughout the year, May’s conditions provide a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities, suggesting a harmonious blend of springtime warmth and refreshing mountain winds. The consistency in these breezes underscores Vail's tranquil charm, making it an inviting destination for those who appreciate serene landscapes and moderate climates.
The weather in Vail 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 Vail and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present starkly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). The month experiences about 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a moderate humidity level of 66%. Conversely, January is significantly colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -27°C (-16°F) and averaging -9°C (15°F), peaking at only 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is somewhat less at 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days, but the humidity is higher at 88%. This dramatic contrast highlights the transition from the frigid depths of winter in January to the milder, more variable conditions of spring in May. For further insights, consider checking Vail weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, we see significant differences in temperature and humidity. May typically experiences a milder climate, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), while February is much colder, with temperatures averaging from -26°C (-15°F) to 10°C (51°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with May receiving 69 mm (2.7 inches) over 11 days and February 63 mm (2.5 inches) across 13 days. However, humidity is notably higher in February at 87%, compared to 66% in May, making February feel much chillier despite similar precipitation amounts. For more detailed insights, check out Vail weather in February.
In comparing the weather of March and May, there are notable differences in temperature and humidity. March often experiences colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -24°C (-12°F) and an average of -4°C (26°F), whereas May sees a significant rise, showcasing minimum temperatures of -13°C (8°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with March receiving 70 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days and May clocking in at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days. However, humidity is higher in March at 81%, compared to 66% in May, indicating more moisture in the air during the earlier spring month. For more detailed insights, you can check the Vail weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it's evident that May brings a notable warming trend. While April experiences colder temperatures with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), May sees temperatures rise with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in May, at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, compared to April's 75 mm (3.0 in) over 13 days. Humidity also sees a decrease in May, dropping to 66% from April's 76%. For a closer look at April weather conditions, you can check out the details here: Vail weather in April.
The weather in May is generally cooler than in June, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). In contrast, June sees a noticeable increase in warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, with 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, while June is drier, with only 36 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days. Humidity levels in May are also higher at 66%, compared to 58% in June. For more information, check out Vail weather in June.
In May, the weather is notably cooler, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 21°C (70°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 inches) over 11 days, and has a higher humidity level of 66%. In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, with an average temperature of 14°C (58°F) and highs peaking at 26°C (80°F). Precipitation in July is lower, totaling 41 mm (1.6 inches) over 10 days, and the humidity drops to 52%. For more specific insights on July weather, you can visit Vail weather in July.
In May, temperatures in the region can vary significantly, with minimums dropping to -13°C (8°F) and average temperatures lingering around 3°C (38°F), reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). May experiences relatively high humidity at 66% and sees precipitation over 11 days, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in). In contrast, August presents a milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and average temperatures rising to 14°C (57°F), peaking at a comfortable 26°C (79°F). This month is characterized by lower humidity at 56% and reduced rainfall, amounting to just 35 mm (1.4 in) over 8 days. For more details on Vail's climate, check out Vail weather in August.
May and September showcase distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to fall. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a comfortable average of 3°C (38°F), peaking at a pleasant 21°C (70°F), with an average precipitation of 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, resulting in a relatively humid atmosphere at 66%. In contrast, September features milder conditions with a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F), while maximum temperatures reach 25°C (78°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 5 days, with humidity slightly lower at 65%. For more details on September's climate, check out Vail weather in September.
May and October exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns, reflecting the transition between spring and autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of about 3°C (38°F). This month experiences approximately 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days and a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with the minimum dropping to -24°C (-11°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F). The maximum temperature is slightly lower at 20°C (68°F), and total precipitation amounts to 64 mm (2.5 in) across 10 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 76%. For more specific details about October's weather in Vail, click here: Vail weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). The month experiences 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, while humidity levels sit around 66%. In stark contrast, November features much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -28°C (-18°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), peaking at 12°C (54°F). Precipitation decreases to 46 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days, and humidity rises to 82%. For more specific insights on November conditions, check out Vail weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. May enjoys a broader temperature range, with minimums reaching as low as -13°C (8°F) and maximums climbing to 21°C (70°F), along with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 11 days, and a relative humidity of 66%. In contrast, December is much colder, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and a maximum of only 8°C (46°F), resulting in an average of -10°C (14°F). Precipitation in December is lower at 48 mm (1.9 in) across about 10 days, yet the humidity is notably higher at 89%, contributing to a distinct winter chill. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Vail weather in December.
May in Vail marks a dynamic shift in weather as the region transitions from the snowy chill of winter to the milder embrace of spring. With temperatures increasingly climbing, visitors can enjoy daytime warmth while still being mindful of brisk evenings. This month is characterized by higher humidity and increased precipitation, which contribute to the vibrant renewal of the landscape. Although May experiences about 11 days of rain, these refreshing showers nurture the stunning beauty of the locale, setting the stage for summer adventures ahead. For a deep dive into what to expect throughout the year, check out Vail Climate.