Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, Atlanta experiences a vibrant transition into summer, characterized by a striking range of temperatures. The month sees maximum highs reaching a sizzling 35°C (95°F), while the average temperature hovers at a comfortable 22°C (71°F). However, nights can be a bit brisk, dipping to a cool 4°C (40°F). Rainfall is a common theme, with 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation occurring over 10 days, contributing to the city’s lush greenery. Coupled with an average humidity of 81%, Atlanta's May weather creates a humid yet lively ambiance, perfect for enjoying the blooming outdoor activities.
In May, Atlanta showcases a vibrant transition to warmth, with temperatures reflecting the burgeoning arrival of summer. The month begins with a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F), but by mid-May, the city experiences a pleasant average of 22°C (71°F), peaking at a scorching 35°C (95°F). This significant rise from the cooler spring months not only invites outdoor activities but also signals the impending summer heat, which will be felt more intensely in June and July. The marked increase from April's maximum of 29°C (85°F) highlights May's pivotal role in Atlanta's seasonal shift, making it an ideal time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blooming landscapes and vibrant atmosphere before the peak summer swelter arrives.
In May, Atlanta experiences a shift in its precipitation patterns, with 96 mm (3.8 in) of rainfall spread over approximately 10 days. This marks a decrease from the damp conditions of April, which saw 124 mm of rain. As spring starts to transition into summer, May often brings a mix of sunny days and brief showers, showcasing the city's warming climate. While the rainfall is less than what Atlanta receives earlier in the year, it is still vital for the lush greenery that characterizes the area. This month sets the stage for the wetter months ahead, particularly June, which typically sees an uptick in precipitation and storm activity.
As spring gives way to summer, humidity levels in Atlanta remain notably steady. In May, the humidity holds at 81%, mirroring the levels of both the preceding and succeeding months. This consistency reflects a broader trend where humidity begins to moderate after a peak in January when it reaches 86%. Interestingly, while the much hotter months of July and August see a slight uptick, the overall pattern suggests that Atlanta's humidity tends to level off, offering a relatively comfortable atmosphere before the summer heat ramps up. Transitioning into the summer, it becomes apparent that the city experiences a distinctive rhythm in humidity, ensuring that residents can prepare for the warmer days ahead.
In Atlanta, May marks a peak in solar intensity, with a UV Index consistently reaching 11, categorized as extreme. This level of UV exposure is comparable to the readings seen in April and the subsequent months of June and July, underscoring a trend of heightened sun strength as we transition into summer. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it’s crucial to prioritize sun safety during this month; protective measures are essential to prevent skin damage. As the UV Index rises sharply from the moderate levels in January, it's clear that residents should remain vigilant to enjoy the outdoors safely. For more detailed information, visit Atlanta UV Index.
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As spring blossoms into summer, May in Atlanta shines with an impressive 314 hours of sunlight, marking a peak in brightness for the year. This month not only follows a steady upward trend from January's modest 169 hours, but also showcases the significant leap from April's 282 hours, emphasizing a delightful embrace of longer days. Following May, June maintains a robust 309 hours, yet it is July that truly sizzles with its 339 hours, suggesting that the city's sunlight is a compelling feature of its warm climate. Overall, the increasing hours of sunlight throughout the spring and into summer paints a vivid picture of Atlanta's vibrant, sunlit days, inviting both locals and visitors to revel in the outdoors.
In Atlanta, the likelihood of sunny weather sees a noticeable ebb and flow throughout the year, with May averaging a 37% chance of sunshine. This figure reflects a slight decline from the more promising 53% in April, suggesting that the transition into late spring may bring a mix of clouds and occasional rain. Interestingly, while May does not boast the highest sunshine probability, it falls within a range of consistently variable weather patterns, where late spring and early summer months like June and July hover around the low 30s percentage. As we look forward, there is a marked shift in the fall season, particularly in November, where residents can expect a much brighter 65% chance of sun—a clear indication that Atlanta's weather has its ups and downs, with May offering a more temperate experience in the yearly cycle.
As May rolls in, Atlanta basks in an enjoyable balance of 13 hours of daylight, mirroring the longer days of April. This trend of increasing daylight stretches from the early months of the year, where January and February offer a mere 10 hours, gradually welcoming the 11 hours found in March. The pattern showcases a steady ascent toward the summer months, peaking in June and July with 14 hours of sunlight. While May marks the transition into the vibrant energy of summer, it retains a welcoming daylight duration, allowing residents to relish the outdoors before the gradual tapering off begins in August. Overall, May serves as a delightful midpoint in Atlanta’s journey from the shorter, winter days to the sun-drenched summer evenings.
May in Atlanta ushers in a gentle breeze, with average wind speeds matching April at 3.1 m/s (or 7 mph). This marks a slight decline from the winter months, where the winds hovered around 3.5 m/s (8 mph). Interestingly, as the city warms up, wind speeds appear to decrease, culminating in the calm, sultry summer months. Looking ahead to June, the winds dip further to 2.6 m/s (6 mph), suggesting a transition to the more stagnant air typical of Atlanta's summer heat. The pattern indicates a gradual wind reduction leading into the hottest time of year, inviting residents to enjoy the mild May currents before the sweltering July and August days set in.
The weather in Atlanta 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 Atlanta and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather patterns. May enjoys mild to warm temperatures, with averages around 22°C (71°F) and a maximum reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while January is much colder, with averages at 7°C (46°F) and maximums around 25°C (77°F). Precipitation levels in both months are fairly close, with May seeing 96 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days and January slightly higher at 106 mm (4.2 in) across 9 days. Additionally, humidity is a bit lower in May at 81%, compared to January's 86%. For a detailed look at January weather, visit Atlanta weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, there are notable differences in temperatures and precipitation. May boasts a much warmer climate, with average temperatures reaching 22°C (71°F) and maximums peaking at 35°C (95°F). In contrast, February presents cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 11°C (51°F) and maximums only reaching 26°C (80°F). While May records 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, February sees a higher total of 145 mm (5.7 in) across 13 days, making it a wetter month despite the cooler weather. Both months have similar humidity levels, with May at 81% and February slightly higher at 84%. For a more detailed outlook, you can check Atlanta weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation. March experiences a wider range of temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -5°C (23°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (85°F), while May sees a milder minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a higher maximum of 35°C (95°F). On the precipitation front, March has slightly more rain, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with March at 83% and May at 81%. For a closer look at March weather specifics, you can check out Atlanta weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we see a notable increase in temperatures as May boasts a minimum of 4°C and an average of 22°C, while April starts at a lower minimum of 0°C and averages 17°C. Furthermore, May reaches higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 35°C compared to April's maximum of 29°C. However, rainfall is slightly reduced in May, with 96 mm of precipitation over 10 days, compared to April's 124 mm spread over 9 days. Both months share the same humidity level of 81%. For a detailed overview of April's climate, check out Atlanta weather in April.
May and June present notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average temperature of 22°C (71°F). The month sees 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 81%. In contrast, June brings a milder minimum temperature of 12°C (54°F) and a slightly warmer average of 25°C (76°F), while the maximum temperature settles at 33°C (92°F). Rainfall increases to 121 mm (4.8 in) across 16 days, yet the humidity remains consistent at 81%. For more details on the weather during this month, check this link: Atlanta weather in June.
In May, temperatures typically range from a cool 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm 35°C (95°F) during the day, with an average of 22°C (71°F). The month experiences about 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, July sees higher minimum temperatures of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 26°C (80°F), maintaining the same maximum temperature of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 112 mm (4.4 in) over 18 days, and humidity levels rise slightly to 83%. For more details on this summer month, visit Atlanta weather in July.
In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a warm average of 22°C (71°F), peaking at a high of 35°C (95°F). With 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, the month is relatively wet, yet it still feels pleasant due to moderate humidity at 81%. In contrast, August experiences a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 16°C (61°F) and averaging 26°C (79°F), while still reaching similar maximums of 35°C (96°F). However, it sees increased rainfall, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 81%. For more detailed insights into the summer weather patterns, you can check Atlanta weather in August.
May and September both showcase pleasant temperatures, although September tends to be slightly warmer on average. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), while September sees a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is relatively high in both months, with May receiving 96 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days, compared to September's 112 mm (4.4 in) across 8 days. Humidity remains consistent, with May at 81% and September at 82%, providing a comparable level of moisture in the air. For more specific insights, you can check Atlanta weather in September.
May and October present distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cooler minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 22°C (71°F). The month also experiences significant humidity at 81% and about 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, October sees a broader temperature range, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 37°C (98°F), while the average temperature drops to 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is slightly higher at 123 mm (4.9 in) but occurs over only 8 days, and humidity decreases to 78%. For more detailed insights, you can check Atlanta weather in October.
May typically brings warmer weather compared to November, with average temperatures reaching around 22°C (71°F) and maximums soaring up to 35°C (95°F). In contrast, November sees cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F) and highs of only 26°C (79°F). Both months experience a fair amount of precipitation, with May receiving 96 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 10 days, while November has slightly less at 82 mm (3.2 in) on about 8 days. Additionally, humidity levels in November are marginally higher at 86% compared to 81% in May. For more detailed information, you can check Atlanta weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a mild 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm 35°C (95°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 22°C (71°F). This month typically experiences around 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 81%. In contrast, December sees much cooler weather, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and averaging 9°C (48°F), peaking at a comfortable 24°C (75°F). This month is wetter, with precipitation totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 11 days and even higher humidity at 89%. For more specific details, you can refer to Atlanta weather in December.
As spring gives way to summer, May in Atlanta showcases a vibrant transformation in weather that distinctly sets it apart from other months. With average temperatures rising, the warm days can reach highs of 35°C, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors. However, the month is also characterized by a noticeable increase in humidity, averaging around 81%, which can make the heat feel more intense. Additionally, precipitation is common, with about 10 days of rain contributing to a total of 96 mm, emphasizing the shift towards the wetter summer months. As the city buzzes with life, exploring the nuances of this climate can enhance your experience—discover more at Atlanta Climate.