May Weather in Knoxville, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In May, the average temperature in Knoxville, United States hovers around 17°C (63°F). Expect a wide range with minimums dipping to -1°C (31°F) and maximums soaring up to 35°C (95°F). Prepare for 160 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation spread over about 15 days, contributing to an average humidity of 78%. Stay cozy and be ready for those rainy days!

May Temperature in Knoxville

In May in Knoxville, the average temperature is 17°C (63°F). Maximum temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F) and minimums can drop to as low as -1°C (31°F). Be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions if you're planning to travel during this time.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Knoxville, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Knoxville, May typically has an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), with highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) and lows dropping to around -1°C (31°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec252841506373777469553933
Data source: Temperature data for Knoxville 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 Knoxville

In Knoxville in May, the precipitation amount is 160 mm (6.3 in) over the course of 15 days.

May Precipitation Trends in Knoxville

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Knoxville, 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. In Knoxville, May typically receives around 160 mm (6.3 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 15 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec576510511116015210867991265250
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Knoxville

In Knoxville in May, humidity is 78%. With an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), this humidity feels like a warm, enveloping blanket, making traveling slightly uncomfortable as you navigate the sticky air, prompting the need for frequent breaks in cooler, shaded areas.

May Average Humidity in Knoxville

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Knoxville, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Knoxville is approximately 78%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec81%81%81%82%78%81%79%77%78%79%87%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Knoxville

In Knoxville in May, the maximum UV index is 9, which corresponds to a very high Exposure Category. The time to burn is just 15 minutes, so it's essential to take precautions. For detailed information, you can check the Hourly UV Index in Knoxville.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Knoxville for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Knoxville 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. In May, the maximum UV index in Knoxville typically reaches 9, which falls under the very high exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35689111098642
Data source: Knoxville 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.

How May Weather in Knoxville Compares to Other Months

Weather in Knoxville varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Knoxville, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Knoxville, showing how May’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather-4°C (26°F)57 mm (2.2 inches)81%moderate
February Weather-2°C (28°F)65 mm (2.6 inches)81%moderate
March Weather5°C (41°F)105 mm (4.1 inches)81%high
April Weather10°C (50°F)111 mm (4.4 inches)82%very high
May Weather17°C (63°F)160 mm (6.3 inches)78%very high
June Weather23°C (74°F)152 mm (6.0 inches)81%extreme
July Weather25°C (77°F)108 mm (4.2 inches)79%very high
August Weather23°C (74°F)67 mm (2.6 inches)77%very high
September Weather20°C (69°F)99 mm (3.9 inches)78%very high
October Weather13°C (55°F)126 mm (5.0 inches)78%high
November Weather4°C (40°F)52 mm (2.1 inches)87%moderate
December Weather1°C (33°F)50 mm (2.0 inches)84%low

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