May Weather in West Palm Beach, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

Experience the vibrant weather of West Palm Beach in May, where temperatures typically reach a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and maintain a pleasant average of 26°C (78°F). The month welcomes the gentle warmth of spring, but be prepared for occasional rain, as 158 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation falls over 17 days. With humidity levels around 65%, the air feels tropical, making it an ideal time for both indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you’re lounging by the beach or exploring the city's attractions, West Palm Beach offers a delightful May experience that won't disappoint.

May Temperature in West Palm Beach

In May, West Palm Beach embraces the warmth of spring, showcasing a delightful temperature range that invites both adventure and relaxation. With a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F), the days gradually heat up, peaking at a comfortable 31°C (88°F). The average temperature settles at a balmy 26°C (78°F), making outdoor activities such as beach outings and strolls along the waterfront particularly enjoyable. As the month progresses, temperatures continue to rise, hinting at the oncoming summer. This transition not only attracts visitors eager to soak in the sunshine but also signals a shift in the local atmosphere, as both residents and tourists revel in the increasingly vibrant setting.

May Weather in West Palm Beach: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in West Palm Beach, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec697272757881838382817572
Data source: Temperature data for West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach

In May, West Palm Beach experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, recording an impressive 158 mm (6.2 in) of rainfall over 17 days. This rainfall marks a notable jump from the previous months, particularly from April’s 86 mm (3.4 in), as the region transitions into the peak of the wet season. The increase in rainfall during May sets the stage for the even wetter conditions that follow in June, which sees an average of 215 mm (8.5 in) across 23 days. This pattern suggests that as the days grow warmer and more humid, the likelihood of rain skyrockets, bringing a lush vibrancy to the landscape while also signifying the arrival of Miami's tropical climate. As May wraps up, residents and visitors alike are reminded to embrace the beauty of sudden showers, as they become a hallmark of the Florida experience.

May Precipitation Trends in West Palm Beach

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in West Palm Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec435436861582151922021891599348
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in West Palm Beach

As May arrives in West Palm Beach, the air begins to shift towards a more comfortable humidity level of 65%, marking a notable dip from the higher readings of previous months. This gradual decline, peaking at a humid 83% in January, reflects a seasonal trend where humidity decreases leading into summer. As the months progress, June sees a slight uptick to 73%, suggesting a gradual increase in moisture again, likely in anticipation of the rainy season. The transition through May signals a brief escape from the sultry humidity, offering residents and visitors a refreshing prelude to the typically warmer and stickier months ahead.

May Average Humidity in West Palm Beach

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in West Palm Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%80%75%68%65%73%77%80%83%83%83%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in West Palm Beach

As May arrives in West Palm Beach, residents and visitors are greeted with an extreme UV Index of 12, mirroring the intensity seen in April. This level of exposure signifies a meager burn time of just 10 minutes, underscoring the urgent need for sun protection. Throughout the year, UV indices vary significantly; January starts at a high 6, while the months from February through April witness a sharp increase, peaking at 10 in March and 12 in April and May. Following May, the UV Index remains at its peak through summer, showcasing a trend of consistently intense sun exposure that demands caution. For those enjoying the sunshine, it's vital to stay informed and protected. To learn more, visit the West Palm Beach UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in West Palm Beach for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for West Palm Beach 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec69101212121212111075
Data source: West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach

In West Palm Beach, the month of May basks in an impressive 315 hours of sunshine, continuing the trend of bright days that have characterized the spring months. This pleasant weather follows a strong April with 325 hours of golden rays, making both months standout for those seeking outdoor enjoyment. As summer approaches, sunshine peaks in July at 341 hours, but May remains a delightful precursor filled with warmth and light, setting the stage for the vibrant summer ahead. After the sunshine-rich months of spring and early summer, a gradual decline in sunlight hours begins in the fall, making May an ideal time to relish the Florida sun before the summer heat intensifies.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in West Palm Beach: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours West Palm Beach 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec211h273h319h325h315h302h341h334h317h299h270h277h
Data source: West Palm Beach May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in West Palm Beach During May

In West Palm Beach, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 49%, suggesting a delightful blend of sun and clouds. As we transition from the milder months of January through April, where sunshine chances hover between 40% and 56%, May marks a peak in pleasant weather, just before the summer brings a marked decline in sun exposure. The following months, particularly June through August, see a significant drop in sunshine to as low as 17% in June, hinting that May is an ideal time for outdoor activities before the heat and humidity intensify. This trend underscores May as a sweet spot for enjoying the warm, sunny days of South Florida.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in West Palm Beach

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec40%56%44%53%49%17%22%23%33%47%40%64%
Data source: West Palm Beach May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in West Palm Beach in May

As spring blossoms into summer in West Palm Beach, May marks a delightful transition with 13 hours of daylight, providing an inviting canvas for outdoor activities and sun-soaked adventures. This increase in daylight follows a steady ascent from 10 hours in January to 12 hours in April, highlighting the region's gradual embrace of longer days. June, July, and August maintain this peak, sustaining a vibrant atmosphere ideal for enjoying the beach and local events. As the year progresses into fall, daylight begins to taper off, reminding us of the seasonal changes ahead. Overall, May stands out as a pivotal month that sets the tone for the sun-drenched summer days that follow!

Average Daylight Hours in West Palm Beach for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in West Palm Beach throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 39m11h 15m12h12h 48m13h 27m13h 46m13h 36m13h 1m12h 16m11h 29m10h 48m10h 28m
Data source: West Palm Beach daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in West Palm Beach

In West Palm Beach, May brings a delightful breeze with an average wind speed of 4.7 m/s (11 mph), making it one of the more inviting months for outdoor activities. This slight uptick from April’s 4.5 m/s (10 mph) reflects a trend where late spring often enjoys stable gusts before the summer heat settles in. Interestingly, the wind speeds begin to taper off in the months following May, with June seeing a drop to 4.0 m/s (9 mph). Overall, the gentle, refreshing winds of May provide a perfect backdrop for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike, while hinting at the calm that typically characterizes the summer months ahead.

Average May Wind Speed in West Palm Beach

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in West Palm Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.15.04.84.54.7 m/s4.03.33.52.63.74.43.2
Data source: West Palm Beach May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in West Palm Beach Compares to Other Months

The weather in West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January exhibit distinctly contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 26°C (78°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, with 158 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation over 17 days and humidity levels around 65%. In contrast, January offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging at 21°C (69°F). The month is much drier, receiving only 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain across just 7 days, but features higher humidity at 83%. For more details on January's weather, check out West Palm Beach weather in January.

In comparing the weather of May and February, notable differences emerge. May experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F), peaking at 31°C (88°F), while February has more moderate temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), reaching a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, May is characterized by higher precipitation levels, receiving 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, compared to February's 54 mm (2.1 in) over just 9 days. Humidity levels also differ, with May averaging 65%, slightly lower than February's higher humidity at 80%. For a closer look at February's weather specifics, check out West Palm Beach weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, it's evident that May tends to be warmer and wetter. May boasts a temperature range with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and an average high of 31°C (88°F), while March has cooler temperatures with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and an average high of 30°C (85°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more rainfall, accumulating 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, compared to March, which sees only 36 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days. Interestingly, the humidity in March is slightly higher at 75% compared to 65% in May. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns in March, you can refer to West Palm Beach weather in March.

When comparing the weather conditions in April and May, April tends to start out warmer overall, with a maximum temperature of 32°C (90°F) compared to May's maximum of 31°C (88°F). However, May experiences higher average temperatures, with an average of 26°C (78°F) versus April's 24°C (76°F). Additionally, May sees significantly more rainfall, with a total of 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, compared to April's 86 mm (3.4 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 65%, compared to April’s 68%. For a deeper look into April's weather specifics, check out West Palm Beach weather in April.

In May, the weather features a mild minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F), with maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F). However, this month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, and a humidity level of 65%. In contrast, June sees slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures rising to 23°C (75°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). The maximum temperature increases to 32°C (90°F), accompanied by higher precipitation of 215 mm (8.5 in) over 23 days and increased humidity at 73%. For detailed insights on June weather, visit West Palm Beach weather in June.

May offers a transition into warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F). However, it also experiences significant rainfall, with 158 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation over 17 days and humidity levels at 65%. In contrast, July is typically hotter and more humid, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F). Rainfall increases to 192 mm (7.6 in), occurring over 29 days, and humidity rises to 77%. For a more detailed look at July's weather patterns, check out West Palm Beach weather in July.

May and August exhibit notably different weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to mid-summer. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 26°C (78°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over approximately 17 days, with a humidity level of 65%. In contrast, August tends to be warmer with minimum temperatures rising to 25°C (78°F) and averaging 28°C (84°F), peaking at 32°C (90°F). Rainfall increases in August to 202 mm (8.0 in), spread over a heavier 27 days, contributing to a higher humidity of 80%. These factors combine to create a more tropical and humid climate in August. For a detailed look at the conditions, check out West Palm Beach weather in August.

In May, temperatures typically range from a comfortable minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 26°C (78°F). However, this month is also marked by significant rainfall, accumulating to 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 65%. In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (76°F) and a maximum reaching up to 33°C (91°F), while the average hovers around 28°C (83°F). This month experiences even higher precipitation levels, totaling 189 mm (7.4 in) across 24 days, and a marked increase in humidity at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can explore West Palm Beach weather in September.

May and October share similar maximum temperatures, both reaching up to 31°C (88°F), but they differ in humidity and precipitation patterns. May tends to be slightly warmer on average with temperatures around 26°C (78°F), while October averages at 27°C (81°F). However, October experiences higher humidity at 83% compared to May's 65%, contributing to a more tropical feel. Additionally, October sees a bit more rainfall, with precipitation occurring on 22 days and totaling 159 mm (6.3 in), compared to May's 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days. For a detailed look at the conditions in October, check out West Palm Beach weather in October.

May and November present distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition between spring and late fall. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 26°C (78°F). This month experiences relatively high precipitation, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, and humidity levels are around 65%. In contrast, November features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 24°C (76°F). The overall precipitation decreases to 93 mm (3.6 in) across 15 days, while humidity rises to 83%. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, you can visit West Palm Beach weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns. May boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and an average high of 31°C (88°F), while December cools down significantly, featuring a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a peak of 28°C (83°F). Additionally, May experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days, compared to December's milder 48 mm (1.9 in) of rainfall across just 10 days. Humidity is also more pronounced in December at 84%, compared to May's 65%. For more details on December weather in West Palm Beach, check out West Palm Beach weather in December.

Compare West Palm Beach's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in West Palm Beach

As May unfolds in West Palm Beach, the warm embrace of summer begins to take hold, offering higher temperatures compared to the preceding months. With an average that hovers around a pleasant 26°C, days can soar to a maximum of 31°C, providing ample sunshine. However, this warmth is accompanied by a noticeable uptick in rain, with 17 days of precipitation contributing to a total of 158 mm. This combination of humidity at 65% and frequent showers subtly shifts the weather dynamics, setting the stage for the vibrant summer that follows. For deeper insights into the region’s climate variations, visit West Palm Beach Climate.