May Weather in Notre Dame, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Notre Dame, United States, May brings a diverse range of weather experiences, characterized by a maximum temperature of 35°C (94°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), with occasional dips to a minimum of -2°C (29°F). This transitional month also showcases a significant humidity level of 81%, enhancing the warm days with a muggy atmosphere. Precipitation is noteworthy, accumulating to 161 mm (6.3 in) over approximately 15 days, indicating that while sunny spells invite outdoor activities, rain showers are often just around the corner. Embrace this vibrant month where climatic contrasts create a dynamic backdrop for the community.

May Temperature in Notre Dame

In Notre Dame, United States, May ushers in a striking transformation as temperatures begin to rise significantly. With a minimum of just -2°C (29°F) and an average hovering around a pleasant 16°C (61°F), this month marks a departure from the harsh cold of winter. Days can reach up to a balmy 35°C (94°F), making it one of the warmest months on record. As spring fully unfurls, the gradual warming trend becomes evident; compared to the very chilly winters, May's mild climate creates an inviting environment perfect for outdoor activities and campus life. This month serves as a reminder of the stark contrast between the biting cold of earlier months and the temperate embrace of early summer, providing a refreshing boost of warmth and vitality to the Notre Dame experience.

May Weather in Notre Dame: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Notre Dame, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec272939486172757267554034
Data source: Temperature data for Notre Dame 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 Notre Dame

May in Notre Dame showcases a significant uptick in precipitation, marking it as one of the wettest months of the year. With 161 mm (6.3 inches) of rain falling over 15 days, May stands out compared to earlier months, where totals gradually increased from 73 mm in January to 106 mm in April. This trend of rising precipitation peaks here, indicating a shift toward the more humid late spring season. Following May, there is a slight decrease in June with 139 mm (5.5 in), yet the frequency of rain continues to keep the atmosphere lively and lush. Overall, May acts as a pivotal month, seamlessly transitioning from the drier winter months into the vibrant, rain-soaked heart of spring.

May Precipitation Trends in Notre Dame

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Notre Dame, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec737597106161139117109791367562
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Notre Dame

In Notre Dame, United States, the trend of humidity throughout the year reveals a notable variance, particularly in the spring and summer months. May stands out with a humidity level of 81%, a decrease from the 87% recorded in April, suggesting a gradual shift towards drier conditions as summer approaches. Following May, June and July maintain similar humidity levels, both at 82% and 81%, respectively. This mild drop in humidity marks the beginning of a warm yet comfortable season. Interestingly, the year peaks in humidity during the late fall, with a significant increase to 89% in November, illustrating the cyclical nature of weather patterns in this region. Overall, while May signals a transition, it remains one of the more humid months compared to the drier late summer and early autumn.

May Average Humidity in Notre Dame

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Notre Dame, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%85%86%87%81%82%81%79%78%81%89%86%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Notre Dame

As May rolls into Notre Dame, the sun's intensity reaches a peak with a UV Index of 9, placing it in the very high exposure category. This trend mirrors the previous month of April, where the UV levels were identical, suggesting that outdoor enthusiasts should be particularly cautious. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it’s crucial to apply sunscreen and seek shade to protect against potential skin damage. As summer approaches, the UV Index will continue to rise, peaking in June and July, making it essential for residents to remain vigilant. For more detailed information on how to stay safe under the sun, visit Notre Dame UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Notre Dame for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Notre Dame 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35699101098643
Data source: Notre Dame 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 Notre Dame

In May, Notre Dame basks in a beautiful 290 hours of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This bright springtime is a delightful contrast to the 109 hours in January, showcasing a remarkable surge as we move into the warmer months. From 167 hours in February to 247 hours in April, each month builds toward May's resplendent glow. Following May, the sunshine peaks in July at 358 hours, then gradually tapers off through the late summer and autumn. This trend highlights a dynamic shift from the chilly winter months to a vibrant warm season, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Notre Dame: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Notre Dame 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec109h167h234h247h290h333h358h338h290h226h176h163h
Data source: Notre Dame May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Notre Dame During May

In Notre Dame, the month of May presents a 35% chance of sunny weather, marking a notable shift from the earlier spring months. While April enjoys a slightly higher probability of sunshine at 42%, May’s forecast hints at the approaching summer with increasing warmth and clearer skies. This gradual upward trend continues into June and July, where the likelihood climbs to 41% and 44%, respectively. The general pattern reveals that as the year progresses toward summer, Notre Dame's residents can anticipate more sunny days, particularly in the latter half of the year, where September peaks at an impressive 55% chance of sun. Thus, while May may still carry a moderate risk of cloudy skies, it sets the stage for the brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Notre Dame

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Notre Dame 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 Notre Dame experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%25%48%42%35%41%44%46%56%31%35%28%
Data source: Notre Dame May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Notre Dame in May

As spring blossoms into summer, May in Notre Dame, United States, showcases a delightful increase in daylight duration, stretching to an impressive 14 hours. This month is a significant milestone in the transition from the short, cozy days of winter—with just 9 hours of daylight in January—to the long, vibrant days of June, which reach their peak at 15 hours. The gradual extension from 10 hours in February to 13 in April highlights the season's awakening, making May a perfect time for outdoor activities, as nature awakens and temperatures rise. Following May, daylight begins to taper off slightly in the summer months, but the vibrancy of this time serves as a reminder of the long, luminous days that precede it.

Average Daylight Hours in Notre Dame for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Notre Dame throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 31m10h 36m11h 58m13h 22m14h 33m15h 8m14h 48m13h 45m12h 25m11h 1m9h 48m9h 11m
Data source: Notre Dame daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Notre Dame

In May, Notre Dame experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph), making it one of the calmer months of the year. This slight dip in wind speed from April’s 3.5 m/s (8 mph) marks a trend towards more tranquil conditions as spring transitions into summer. As temperatures rise, the winds begin to soften, echoing the slower pace of life in the lush surroundings. Interestingly, the wind picks up again as fall approaches, with an increase in speed through November and December, where gusts reach 4.0 m/s (9 mph). Overall, May is characterized by a serene, breezy ambiance that complements the vibrant blooms of spring while hinting at the stillness that summer will soon bring.

Average May Wind Speed in Notre Dame

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Notre Dame, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.33.74.13.53.4 m/s3.22.82.53.53.44.04.0
Data source: Notre Dame May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Notre Dame Compares to Other Months

The weather in Notre Dame 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 Notre Dame and find detailed weather information for every month.

When comparing the weather in May and January, there is a stark contrast in temperatures and conditions. May experiences a much milder climate, with average temperatures hovering around 16°C (61°F) and highs reaching up to 35°C (94°F). In contrast, January is characterized by frigid temperatures, where the average sits at a chilly -3°C (28°F) and can drop as low as -26°C (-15°F). Additionally, precipitation is more prominent in May, with 161 mm (6.3 in) over 15 days, compared to January’s 73 mm (2.9 in) over just 11 days. The humidity levels are relatively similar, with May at 81% and January at 85%. For a deeper look at winter conditions, check out Notre Dame weather in January.

Comparing the weather in May and February reveals striking contrasts. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a sweltering maximum of 35°C (94°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). In contrast, February experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -28°C (-18°F) and only peaking at 19°C (67°F), averaging -2°C (29°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in May at 161 mm (6.3 in), occurring over 15 days, while February sees a more modest 75 mm (2.9 in) across 12 days. Both months exhibit high humidity levels, with May at 81% and February slightly higher at 85%. For a more detailed understanding of February conditions, visit Notre Dame weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, it is evident that May experiences milder temperatures with an average of 16°C (61°F), while March has a much cooler average of 4°C (39°F). The temperature range in May is broader, stretching from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 35°C (94°F), compared to March's minimum of -14°C (7°F) and maximum of 25°C (78°F). Additionally, May sees more precipitation, with 161 mm (6.3 in) falling over approximately 15 days, compared to March's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 12 days. The humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with May at 81% and March slightly higher at 86%. For further insights on March weather specifics, you can check out Notre Dame weather in March.

In comparing the weather patterns of May and April, May presents a significant shift towards warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a high of 35°C (94°F). In contrast, April's temperatures are cooler, starting at a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and averaging only 9°C (48°F), with a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Additionally, May experiences more rainfall, totaling 161 mm (6.3 in) over 15 days, compared to April's 106 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 81%, while April has a higher average at 87%. For more details on the weather during April, you can refer to Notre Dame weather in April.

May and June both feature a similar range of maximum temperatures, reaching up to 35°C (94°F) in May and slightly higher at 35°C (95°F) in June. However, June enjoys a milder minimum temperature of 8°C (47°F), compared to May's cooler -2°C (29°F). The average temperature rises notably in June, reaching 22°C (72°F), while May maintains an average of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, precipitation levels are slightly lower in June at 139 mm (5.5 in) over 13 days, compared to May’s 161 mm (6.3 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains quite consistent at 81% in May and 82% in June. For a detailed look at the weather in June, visit Notre Dame weather in June.

May and July present distinct weather patterns, highlighting a transition from the coolness of spring to the warmth of summer. In May, temperatures can range dramatically from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a sweltering maximum of 35°C (94°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month also experiences considerable rainfall, with 161 mm (6.3 in) over approximately 15 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 81%.

In contrast, July offers a milder temperature range, with minimums around 13°C (55°F) and maximums peaking at 34°C (93°F), leading to a more stable average of 24°C (75°F). Precipitation is lower at 117 mm (4.6 in) spread over 12 days, while humidity remains consistent at 81%. Overall, July features more comfortable temperatures and less rainfall compared to May. For more details on July's climate, you can explore Notre Dame weather in July.

May and August offer distinctly different weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a brisk minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a sweltering 35°C (94°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, with 161 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation over 15 days and a high humidity level of 81%. In contrast, August presents milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 22°C (73°F), and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Rainfall is reduced to 109 mm (4.3 in) across 12 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 79%. For more details on August weather, you can refer to Notre Dame weather in August.

May and September showcase quite different weather patterns. In May, the temperatures can vary significantly, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), reaching up to 35°C (94°F) on warmer days. This month also tends to be wetter, with an average precipitation of 161 mm (6.3 in) over about 15 days, and higher humidity at 81%. In contrast, September presents milder conditions with minimum temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation drops to 79 mm (3.1 in) over just 9 days, with slightly lower humidity at 78%. For more detailed September weather insights, you can check Notre Dame weather in September.

May and October present contrasting yet somewhat similar weather experiences. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (94°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month also brings considerable precipitation, with a total of 161 mm (6.3 in) over about 15 days, all while maintaining a humidity level of 81%.

In contrast, October features a slightly cooler average temperature of 13°C (55°F), with highs reaching up to 31°C (87°F) and the same chilly low of -2°C (29°F). Precipitation is slightly less at 136 mm (5.4 in) over 14 days, with humidity remaining consistent at 81%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this time, you can check Notre Dame weather in October.

May and November showcase contrasting weather patterns, with May typically warmer and wetter. May experiences a wide temperature range, with minimums around -2°C (29°F) and maximums soaring to 35°C (94°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). In contrast, November's temperatures dip significantly, from a low of -13°C (9°F) to a high of 24°C (76°F), averaging only 4°C (40°F). Precipitation in May is considerably higher at 161 mm (6.3 in) across 15 days, compared to November's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are similar, with May at 81% and November slightly higher at 89%. For those seeking specific details on November conditions, you can refer to Notre Dame weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a warm 35°C (94°F) during the day, with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 161 mm (6.3 in) spread over 15 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with humidity levels at 81%. In contrast, December experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and averaging just 1°C (34°F). The maximum temperature in December reaches only 17°C (63°F), and precipitation is notably lower at 62 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days, with humidity slightly higher at 86%. For more detailed information on December weather, check Notre Dame weather in December.

Compare Notre Dame's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Notre Dame

As spring transitions into summer, May in Notre Dame brings a refreshing change in weather, marked by warmer temperatures and increased humidity. Unlike the chill of the earlier months, May frequently experiences days where temperatures can reach a pleasant high, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. However, residents should be prepared for possible rain, as the month sees a notable number of precipitation days, contributing to the lush vibrancy of the season. The blend of warmth and moisture creates a unique climate experience, making May a delightful time for both locals and visitors. For a detailed understanding of how May weather fits into the year's overall climate, you can explore more at Notre Dame Climate.