Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Key West, United States, showcases a pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities. With maximum temperatures reaching 29°C (84°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days comfortably. The nights bring a mild minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F), perfect for evening strolls. However, anticipate some rainfall, as the city experiences about 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 71%. This mix of warmth and moisture creates a lush environment, making May a vibrant time to explore the unique beauty of Key West.
In Key West, May heralds the arrival of warm, inviting temperatures that beckon visitors to embrace the outdoors. With a minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), the days begin to feel notably warmer as summer approaches. The high of 29°C (84°F) encourages sun-soaked adventures, whether lounging on sandy shores or exploring the vibrant local scene. This month marks a continuation of the upward trend in temperatures from the cooler winter months, creating a perfect balance of warmth and comfort that characterizes the Florida Keys. As the humidity begins to rise, visitors can expect a lush, tropical atmosphere, making May an ideal time to experience everything this paradise has to offer.
May marks a significant shift in precipitation patterns in Key West, with an impressive 139 mm (5.5 in) of rainfall spread over 11 days. This dramatic increase compared to earlier months, such as March's mere 18 mm (0.7 in), hints at the onset of the wetter season. The rise in both the volume of rain and the number of rainy days serves as a precursor to the even heavier downpours that the summer months bring, highlighting May's role as a pivotal transition point. With the warmth of spring still in the air, May’s showers not only contribute to the lush landscapes but also set the stage for the impending tropical climate that defines Key West's summer experience.
As May arrives in Key West, the humidity begins to show a subtle decline, dropping to 71% from April's 73%. This trend of decreasing humidity continues into the early summer months, with June recording 69% humidity. The comfortable levels in May make it an appealing time for visitors, who can enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife without the oppressive stickiness often seen later in the season. As summer progresses, humidity levels gently rise again, reaching 70% in July and peaking in September at 76%. This annual pattern showcases the island's transition from the cooler, more humid months of winter to a warmer, yet still pleasant, late spring.
In May, Key West experiences a UV Index of 12, categorizing the exposure as extreme and necessitating caution for sun lovers. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it mirrors the conditions of the preceding month, April, and the following month, June. This trend of elevated UV exposure underscores the importance of sun protection as the summer approaches, with the index peaking at 13 in June. Throughout the early months of the year, UV levels gradually increase from a high index of 7 in January to the very high and extreme levels seen from February onwards. As you plan your outdoor adventures, make sure to stay informed and equip yourself with the right protective measures. For more detailed information, visit Key West UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May in Key West shines with an impressive 335 hours of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. Following a beautiful April, which boasts a peak of 340 hours, May offers a slight dip, yet maintains a vibrant glow that enchants visitors and locals alike. As summer approaches, the sunshine continues to thrive, with June recording 323 hours. This trend showcases the steadily abundant sunshine characteristic of Key West, perfect for outdoor adventures and soaking up the sun. With each passing month, the sun's rays create an inviting atmosphere, establishing Key West as a beloved destination for warmth and brightness.
As May approaches in Key West, the likelihood of sunny weather starts to dip slightly compared to the previous months, with a 58% chance of sunshine. This reflects a trend where the sunniest months, like March at 72% and April at 64%, pave the way for the summer season when sunshine becomes less predictable. While May presents a substantial chance for clear skies, it signals a transition towards the more humid and stormy month of June, which plummets to a 21% chance of sun. So, while visitors can still expect pleasant weather and beautiful days in May, they should prepare for the gradual shift towards the summer's unpredictability.
As spring transitions into summer in Key West, the daylight duration steadily increases, peaking at 13 hours in May. Starting with just 10 hours in January, the days grow longer as the year progresses, illustrating a clear trend towards more sunlight and longer evenings. By March, Key West enjoys a full 12 hours of daylight, a welcome change that continues into April. Although June through July maintains this peak at 13 hours, August begins a gentle decline back to 12 hours as the summer heat begins to wane. The gradual reduction continues into the fall, reminding residents that while daylight dwindles, the essence of Key West’s vibrant beauty remains constant throughout the year.
In Key West, May ushers in a refreshing breeze with an average wind speed of 6.1 m/s (14 mph), mirroring February's winds and showcasing a slight dip from the earlier spring months. As the island transitions into summer, the ocean's gentle currents contribute to this moderate wind, creating perfect conditions for sailing and outdoor activities. While May's winds are consistent with the vibrant spring season, they herald the upcoming shift into the hotter months of June and July, where speeds begin to taper off. Overall, May's breeze not only enhances Key West's idyllic atmosphere but also sets the stage for summer adventures ahead.
The weather in Key West 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 Key West and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in May and January, one can observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and an average high of 29°C (84°F), while January has a more moderate range, where temperatures drop to a minimum of 12°C (55°F) and peak at 26°C (79°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more rainfall, with 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days, compared to January's light 27 mm (1.1 in) across just 5 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, but January tends to be slightly more humid at 81%, as opposed to May’s 71%. For more details, check out Key West weather in January.
May and February present distinct contrasts in weather characteristics. In May, temperatures are warmer, with minimums around 22°C (72°F) and average highs reaching 29°C (84°F), while February sees cooler temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly higher rainfall, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days, compared to February's modest 27 mm (1.1 in) over just 4 days. Interestingly, February also boasts higher humidity levels at 79%, compared to 71% in May, which can affect the overall comfort level. For a closer look at February’s weather specifics, check out Key West weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, May tends to be warmer and more humid. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (62°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). In contrast, May experiences higher temperatures, with minima around 22°C (72°F) and maxima reaching 29°C (84°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is also significantly higher in May, with 139 mm (5.5 in) falling over 11 days, compared to just 18 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days in March. The humidity levels are slightly lower in March at 76% compared to 71% in May. For a detailed look at March weather specifics, you can visit Key West weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we observe that May is generally warmer, with average temperatures rising from April's 25°C (77°F) to 26°C (79°F). Both months experience maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F), but May has a higher minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F) compared to April's 19°C (67°F). Precipitation also increases significantly in May, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days, whereas April sees only 40 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days. Interestingly, humidity levels remain similar in both months, with May at 71% and April slightly higher at 73%. For a closer look at April weather specifics, visit Key West weather in April.
In May, the weather features a minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), peaking at a maximum of 29°C (84°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with a total precipitation of 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days and a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, June sees slightly warmer temperatures, beginning at a minimum of 24°C (76°F), averaging 28°C (82°F), and reaching a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation decreases to 94 mm (3.7 in) across 14 days, with humidity slightly lower at 69%. For more insights on weather conditions, visit Key West weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we notice a slight increase in temperatures during July, with minimums of 25°C (78°F) compared to May's 22°C (72°F) and average temperatures reaching 28°C (83°F) versus May's 26°C (79°F). However, July experiences a decrease in overall precipitation, with 103 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, in contrast to May's 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days. The humidity levels remain fairly consistent, sitting at 71% in May and slightly lower at 70% in July. For more detailed weather insights, you can refer to Key West weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, it's evident that both months experience warm temperatures, but August tends to be slightly warmer overall. May has a minimum temperature of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), while August starts at a higher minimum of 25°C (78°F) and averages 29°C (84°F). Additionally, August experiences less precipitation compared to May, with 100 mm (3.9 in) over 15 days, whereas May sees 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with May at 71% and August at 72%. For more specific insights into August weather, you can check out this link: Key West weather in August.
Comparing the weather in May and September reveals some interesting differences. In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average around 26°C (79°F). However, this month sees around 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, and humidity levels hover around 71%.
In contrast, September experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging 28°C (83°F). This month is wetter, receiving about 172 mm (6.8 in) of rainfall over 17 days, alongside a higher humidity level of 76%. These factors contribute to a distinctly different atmosphere between the two months. For more details on September weather, check out Key West weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar temperature ranges, with average highs in the upper 20s°C (around 80°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures peaking at 26°C (79°F), compared to October's average of 27°C (81°F). In terms of humidity, October is a bit more humid at 79%, while May has a humidity level of 71%. Precipitation is another factor where October shows more frequent rain, with rainfall occurring on 18 days, compared to May's 11 days of rain, though the overall precipitation totals are quite close: 139 mm (5.5 in) for May and 133 mm (5.2 in) for October. For more detailed insights, check out Key West weather in October.
In May, temperatures in Key West range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, averaging 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days, contributing to a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, November offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is reduced to 83 mm (3.3 in) over just 10 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Key West weather in November.
May and December present distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transitioning seasons. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). However, this month also sees considerable precipitation at 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, December offers cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). The month is much drier, receiving only 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain over just 5 days, while humidity rises slightly to 81%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this month, check out Key West weather in December.
In May, Key West transitions into a warmer, more vibrant season, setting itself apart from the cooler and breezier months that precede it. With average temperatures climbing to a comfortable 26°C (79°F) and highs reaching up to 29°C (84°F), the island basks in plenty of sunshine. However, it also embraces a slightly increased level of humidity and rainfall, as evidenced by an average of 139 mm spread over 11 days of precipitation. While the lush landscapes thrive with this added moisture, visitors can still enjoy an array of outdoor activities without feeling overwhelmed by heat. For those keen to explore further details about this unique climate, check out Key West Climate for an in-depth analysis.