May Weather in Hilo, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Hilo, United States, the weather in May showcases a delightful tropical climate. With a maximum temperature reaching 26°C (79°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F), visitors can expect warm and inviting days. The month, however, is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) across approximately 27 rainy days, contributing to the lush greenery the region is known for. Coupled with a humidity level of 80%, May in Hilo offers a rich, vibrant environment, perfect for those who appreciate nature's beauty, though it may necessitate a raincoat or umbrella for outdoor adventures.

May Temperature in Hilo

In May, Hilo, United States, experiences a gentle warming trend as temperatures begin to rise, characterized by a minimum of 19°C (67°F), an average of 22°C (73°F), and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). This shift marks a slight increase from April, indicating the arrival of more consistent warmth as the region transitions into the summer months. With temperatures hovering close to the comfortable mid-twenties, May offers an ideal climate for outdoor activities, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the lush beauty of Hilo. As the days lengthen and the atmosphere becomes more vibrant, this month sets the perfect stage for the adventures that await in the subsequent sunny summer.

May Weather in Hilo: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Hilo, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec707070717273747575757371
Data source: Temperature data for Hilo 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 Hilo

In May, Hilo experiences an average precipitation of 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days, marking a slight decrease from the drier months of April and offering a transition as the rainy season intensifies toward summer. Despite the reduction in total rain compared to earlier months, May still showcases Hilo's reputation as one of the wettest places in the United States. The consistent rainfall throughout the month contributes to the lush, vibrant landscapes that define this tropical paradise. As the region gears up for the wetter summer months ahead, May serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between precipitation and the breathtaking beauty that follows.

May Precipitation Trends in Hilo

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Hilo, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec158262225195166107131197109189153228
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Hilo

In May, Hilo experiences a consistent humidity level of 80%, marking a slight increase from April's 80%. This moderate environment is characteristic of the spring transition in Hilo, where lush vegetation thrives due to the high moisture content in the air. As the year progresses, humidity tends to rise steadily, reaching its peak in August at 84%. This trend illustrates Hilo's tropical climate, where elevated humidity levels create a warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the year. By observing these patterns, one can appreciate the enchanting moisture that defines Hilo's charm, particularly in late spring.

May Average Humidity in Hilo

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Hilo, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%79%77%80%80%82%83%84%82%83%83%81%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Hilo

In May, Hilo experiences an extraordinarily high UV Index of 13, placing it in the extreme exposure category. This consistent trend of high UV exposure is evident from January's UV Index of 8 to May's current rating, highlighting the region's overall sun intensity as the year progresses. With a swift burn time of just 10 minutes, residents and visitors alike should take precautionary measures to protect their skin, especially as the UV levels remain unchanged through June. Such sustained exposure serves as a reminder to stay vigilant under the sun, making resources like Hilo UV Index invaluable for planning safe outdoor activities.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Hilo for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Hilo 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec811121313131414131298
Data source: Hilo 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 Hilo

May in Hilo, United States, shines brightly as it marks the beginning of a sun-drenched stretch that peaks during the summer months. With 318 hours of sunshine, May serves as a delightful prelude to the even sunnier June and July, which boast 331 and 339 hours, respectively. This increasing trend of daylight continues to paint the landscape in vibrant hues, allowing residents and visitors alike to bask in the warm embrace of the sun. As the year progresses, however, the hours gradually taper off, reminding us that while the summer sun may be fleeting, May's radiant glow acts as a cherished highlight in Hilo's annual weather tapestry.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Hilo: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Hilo 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec212h244h249h284h318h331h339h323h305h283h260h252h
Data source: Hilo May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Hilo During May

In Hilo, United States, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 41%, mirroring the somewhat inconsistent patterns seen throughout the year. Notably, the chances of sun show a gentle upward trend from the earlier months, with both April and January also resting at 41%. The spring transition into warmer months sees a slight increase, particularly in June with a 43% chance of sunshine, although this is juxtaposed with a notable dip in July. As summer approaches, the weather remains somewhat unpredictable, yet May’s climate reflects a balance between sunny intervals and typical tropical cloud cover, keeping outdoor plans delightfully hopeful.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Hilo

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Hilo 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 Hilo experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec41%47%36%42%42%43%31%45%43%43%43%27%
Data source: Hilo May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Hilo in May

In Hilo, United States, the progression of daylight duration across the months reveals a noticeable trend towards longer days as spring unfolds into summer. January and February see a consistent 11 hours of daylight, but as March arrives, sunlight begins to stretch, reaching 12 hours. This trend continues into April, ushering in an additional hour, and by May, residents enjoy 13 hours of daylight—a peak that lasts through June and July. As summer fades into late summer and autumn, daylight gradually diminishes, with sunshine returning to 12 hours in August and September, before tapering off to 11 hours in October and November, and concluding the year with 10 hours in December. This rhythm of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also invites the community to engage more with the vibrant outdoors as the days get longer.

Average Daylight Hours in Hilo for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Hilo throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 4m11h 29m12h 2m12h 36m13h 4m13h 17m13h 10m12h 45m12h 12m11h 39m11h 10m10h 56m
Data source: Hilo daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Hilo

In May, Hilo experiences a delightful continuation of gentle breezes, with an average wind speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph). This month follows a pattern established in April and is consistent with the average for February and July, highlighting a stable spring climate. The winds here tend to be milder, with speeds decreasing slightly as summer approaches, evident in the subsequent months of June and August, where averages dip to 2.9 m/s (6 mph). Overall, May's breezy days invite residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities while appreciating Hilo's captivating natural beauty.

Average May Wind Speed in Hilo

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Hilo, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.93.33.53.13.3 m/s2.93.02.92.62.73.13.4
Data source: Hilo May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Hilo Compares to Other Months

The weather in Hilo 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 Hilo and find detailed weather information for every month.

When comparing the weather in May and January, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with May averaging a slightly higher temperature of 22°C (73°F) compared to January's 21°C (71°F). The maximum temperatures are also comparable, reaching 26°C (79°F) in May and 25°C (77°F) in January. However, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days, while January has slightly less with 158 mm (6.2 in) over 20 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with May at 80% and January at 79%. Overall, both months are characterized by warm, humid conditions, but May tends to be wetter than January. For a more detailed look at January weather, check out Hilo weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both months feature average temperatures ranging from 21°C to 22°C (70°F to 73°F) and maximum temperatures peaking at 26°C (79°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer with a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) compared to February's 17°C (62°F). In terms of precipitation, February experiences significantly more rainfall, with a total of 262 mm (10.3 in) over 23 days, whereas May has 166 mm (6.5 in) spread across 27 days. Interestingly, while humidity levels are similar, with February at 79% and May slightly higher at 80%, both months are characterized by the tropical climate of Hilo. For a closer look at February's weather specifics, check out Hilo weather in February.

May and March feature relatively similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing maximum highs around 26°C (79°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer on average, with temperatures peaking at around 22°C (73°F) compared to March's average of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is notably higher in March, with 225 mm (8.8 in) of rain over 26 days, whereas May sees less rain at 166 mm (6.5 in) across 27 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in May at 80%, compared to March's 77%. For more detailed information, you can check Hilo weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, we see a slight continuity, with both months featuring similar average temperatures, each averaging around 22°C (73°F). However, May experiences marginally warmer minimum temperatures of 19°C (67°F) compared to April's 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels differ as well, with April receiving more rainfall at 195 mm (7.7 in) over 25 days, while May has 166 mm (6.5 in) with rain falling on 27 days. Despite the reduced precipitation, the humidity remains high in both months at 80%, contributing to a distinctly tropical feel. For a detailed overview of April's weather, you can refer to Hilo weather in April.

May and June both offer warm temperatures, but June tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), compared to May’s minimum of 19°C (67°F) and maximum of 26°C (79°F). While both months see substantial rainfall, June experiences less precipitation overall at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 25 rainy days, compared to May's 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 rainy days. Humidity levels are similar, with June at 82% and May at 80%, indicating a slightly more humid atmosphere as summer approaches. For more detailed weather insights, check out Hilo weather in June.

In May, the weather is characterized by milder temperatures, with averages around 22°C (73°F) and a maximum reaching 26°C (79°F). The month often experiences significant rainfall, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%. Conversely, July sees slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). While July has slightly less precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) spread over 28 days, humidity rises to 83%. For a more detailed look at July's weather conditions, you can check Hilo weather in July.

May and August present a warm tropical climate, but some differences are notable. May experiences slightly lower temperatures with averages around 22°C (73°F), while August sees a mild increase, averaging 24°C (75°F). Both months have similar precipitation patterns, each receiving rainfall on 27 days, though August is a touch wetter with 197 mm (7.8 in) compared to May's 166 mm (6.5 in). Humidity is also slightly higher in August at 84% versus May's 80%, contributing to a more sultry atmosphere. For more detailed information on August weather, you can visit Hilo weather in August.

May and September both feature warm temperatures, but September is generally a bit warmer, with average highs reaching 28°C (82°F) compared to May's 26°C (79°F). While May experiences more rainfall, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days, September sees less precipitation, with 108 mm (4.3 in) falling over 24 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar in both months, with May at 80% and September slightly higher at 82%. For more detailed information on September weather, you can check out Hilo weather in September.

May and October exhibit relatively similar warm temperatures, but October tends to be slightly warmer overall. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) with an average of 22°C (73°F). In contrast, October sees temperatures ranging from 20°C (69°F) to 28°C (82°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F). Precipitation levels are also comparable, with May receiving 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days, while October has a bit more rain, totaling 189 mm (7.4 in) across 23 days. Humidity is marginally higher in October at 83%, compared to 80% in May. For more detailed insights, you can check Hilo weather in October.

In comparing May and November weather, both months experience mild temperatures, though November tends to be slightly warmer on average. May has a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F), while November starts at 20°C (68°F) and averages 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is relatively abundant in both months, with May receiving 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days, compared to November's 153 mm (6.0 in) spread across 24 days. Humidity levels are also quite similar, with May at 80% and November slightly higher at 83%. For more details about November weather, you can check Hilo weather in November.

May and December in Hilo share similar temperature averages, with both months experiencing mild conditions ranging from a minimum of 18-19°C (65-67°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78-79°F). However, December tends to be wetter, with 228 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation over 24 days compared to May’s 166 mm (6.5 in) over 27 days. Humidity levels are also slightly elevated in December, reaching 81% compared to 80% in May. For more details on the December weather, you can check Hilo weather in December.

Compare Hilo's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Hilo

As May unfolds in Hilo, the weather showcases its characteristic tropical charm, setting the stage for the lush greenery that Hawaii is renowned for. With temperatures generally milder than the preceding months, you can expect comfortable conditions that invite outdoor adventures, despite the notable high humidity hovering around 80%. May's frequent rainfall, with precipitation occurring on nearly three-quarters of the month, is a departure from the drier stretches of earlier months, ensuring the landscape remains vibrant and thriving. This unique blend of warmth and moisture prepares Hilo for the summer ahead, making it a perfect time to explore the rich cultural and natural beauty of the area. For more detailed information, visit Hilo Climate.