May Weather in Baltimore, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In May, Baltimore experiences a dynamic shift in weather, with maximum temperatures reaching a warm 30°C (87°F) and an average settling around 18°C (65°F). This transitional month can surprise residents with cooler days, as minimum temperatures dip to 3°C (38°F). As spring gives way to summer, precipitation is notable, with a total of 145 mm (5.7 in) falling over approximately 14 days, contributing to a humidity level of 78%. This blend of warmth, moisture, and occasional rain shapes a vibrant and lush environment, indicative of Baltimore’s unique seasonal charm.

May Temperature in Baltimore

In May, Baltimore begins to shake off the lingering chill of winter, with temperatures that reflect the blossoming warmth of spring. The month starts with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), gradually rising to an inviting average of 18°C (65°F), and peaking at a delightful 30°C (87°F). This upward trend marks a significant transition from the cooler days of April, where the average was just 13°C (55°F), highlighting May as a month of revitalization. As the warmth settles in, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the vibrant outdoor scene, making it clear that summer is just around the corner. The pleasant warmth and blooming flora make May one of Baltimore's most delightful months, perfect for exploring the city's parks and waterfronts.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Baltimore, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec363945556474807772624841
Data source: Temperature data for Baltimore 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 Baltimore

May is a significant month for precipitation in Baltimore, where rainfall peaks with an average of 145 mm (5.7 in), marking it as one of the wettest months of the year. With 14 days of measurable rain, residents can expect frequent showers that contribute to the lush greenery of late spring. This uptick in precipitation follows the patterns set by previous months, particularly April's 114 mm, but highlights a noticeable jump as the city transitions into summer. This trend of increased rainfall continues into June, albeit at a lower total of 106 mm, suggesting a pattern where May serves as a critical bridge between the wetter, cooler months and the heat of summer. Overall, May's abundant rain serves not only to nurture the burgeoning flora but also sets the stage for the warmth and humidity that characterize the upcoming months.

May Precipitation Trends in Baltimore

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Baltimore, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec701179911414510615114311112390116
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Baltimore

As spring transitions into summer, May in Baltimore experiences a noticeable decline in humidity, averaging 78%. This decrease marks a shift from the consistently high levels observed in the early months of the year, with January and February both hovering around 84%. By April, humidity begins to taper off, and May showcases the trend towards more comfortable conditions, a precursor to the drier summer months ahead. June sees a slight uptick at 79%, but overall, the trend indicates a gradual move towards lower humidity levels, providing a refreshing backdrop for outdoor activities and a more enjoyable climate as the region approaches the summer heat.

May Average Humidity in Baltimore

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Baltimore, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%83%83%81%78%79%74%72%75%81%85%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Baltimore

As spring transitions into summer, May in Baltimore is characterized by a very high UV Index of 10, indicating an increased risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This trend follows an upward climb from the moderate indices seen in January and February, steadily rising to a high of 9 in April. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to take sun safety seriously. The consistent reading of 10 in both May and June highlights the growing intensity of sunlight this time of year, making proper sun protection crucial. As you enjoy the outdoors, remember to stay informed and protect your skin; for additional details, check out the Baltimore UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Baltimore for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Baltimore 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec357910101098753
Data source: Baltimore 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 Baltimore

May in Baltimore is a delightful month that truly ushers in the warmth of spring, with an impressive 297 hours of sunshine. This marks a significant increase from the earlier months, showcasing a vibrant upward trend as the city transitions from winter to summer. Following the steady climb in sunlight hours from 182 in February to 268 in April, May stands out as a turning point before the sunniest months of summer take over. The gradual progression not only enhances the outdoor experience but also invigorates local life, making it a perfect time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy Baltimore's blossoming parks and waterfronts. The upcoming June peaks with 339 hours of sunshine, promising even longer days filled with radiant warmth and activity.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Baltimore: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Baltimore 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151h182h261h268h297h339h359h329h281h250h226h190h
Data source: Baltimore May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Baltimore During May

As spring transitions into summer, Baltimore experiences varying degrees of sunshine, with May presenting a 40% chance of sunny weather. This month sits comfortably in the middle of the seasonal sunshine spectrum, slightly lower than the preceding months of March and April, which record 53% and 46%, respectively. Following May, the likelihood of sunshine dips again in June and August, hitting 39% and 35%. Interestingly, the months of September and November display a promising 54% and 55% chance of sun, suggesting a potential revival of sunnier days as summer fades. Overall, while May may not boast the highest probability of clear skies, it certainly maintains a respectable chance, keeping the hope for delightful spring days alive.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Baltimore

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Baltimore 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 Baltimore experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46%28%53%46%40%39%51%35%54%41%55%36%
Data source: Baltimore May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Baltimore in May

In May, Baltimore basks in an invigorating 14 hours of daylight, a delightful step up from the 13 hours seen in April. This month marks the peak spring transition, ushering longer days that enhance outdoor activities and social gatherings. Following May, daylight remains steady at 14 hours through June and July, creating a summery atmosphere. As August rolls in, the daylight begins to wane slightly, signaling the slow return to shorter days. Overall, May encapsulates a vibrant period of extended sunlight, embodying the essence of spring and early summer in this captivating city.

Average Daylight Hours in Baltimore for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Baltimore throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 45m10h 43m11h 58m13h 15m14h 19m14h 51m14h 34m13h 36m12h 23m11h 7m10h9h 26m
Data source: Baltimore daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Baltimore

May in Baltimore experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph), slightly lower than the preceding months, but still in line with the city's generally mild spring conditions. As the region transitions toward summer, wind speeds tend to decline, with June and July seeing the calmest conditions of the year, hitting lows of 3.3 m/s (7 mph) and 3.0 m/s (7 mph) respectively. This subtle decrease reflects a seasonal shift, where warmer temperatures often coincide with lighter winds. Overall, May presents a comfortable balance of pleasant weather and light breezes, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors.

Average May Wind Speed in Baltimore

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Baltimore, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.84.14.14.03.7 m/s3.33.02.63.53.73.93.4
Data source: Baltimore May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Baltimore Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather of May and January, the differences are stark. May enjoys a milder range, with temperatures fluctuating from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, and experiences an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). It also sees considerable rainfall, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in) over about 14 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and peaking at a maximum of 17°C (63°F), resulting in a much colder average of just 2°C (36°F). January has less precipitation, totaling only 70 mm (2.8 in) over 8 days, but a higher humidity level of 84%. For further details, you can check out the Baltimore weather in January.

May and February present stark contrasts in weather, reflecting the transition from winter to spring. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -14°C (8°F) but typically average around 4°C (39°F), with a maximum reaching 20°C (69°F). In comparison, May boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and averaging 18°C (65°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). While February experiences a lower amount of precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 12 days, May sees more rainfall at 145 mm (5.7 in) across 14 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels of 78% compared to February's 83%. For a detailed look at February's weather, you can check Baltimore weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, it is clear that May offers significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), compared to March's chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). March does experience a higher maximum temperature of 24°C (75°F), yet this is overshadowed by May's peak of 30°C (87°F). Additionally, May receives more precipitation, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in) over 14 days, whereas March has 99 mm (3.9 in) across 10 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 78%, compared to March's 83%. For a closer look at March weather specifics in Baltimore, check out Baltimore weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, May tends to be significantly warmer, with average temperatures rising from April’s 13°C (55°F) to 18°C (65°F). While April features a chillier minimum of 0°C (32°F), May’s lowest temperature is a slightly higher 3°C (38°F). Precipitation also increases in May, with 145 mm (5.7 in) over 14 days, compared to April's 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days. Despite May being wetter, its humidity remains relatively similar, with April at 81% and May at 78%. For more detailed insights, check out Baltimore weather in April.

May experiences a broader range of temperatures, with minimums dropping to 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (87°F), while June offers a milder minimum of 11°C (52°F) and slightly warmer maximums peaking at 32°C (90°F). Although both months have the same number of rainy days (14), June sees less overall precipitation at 106 mm (4.2 in), compared to May's 145 mm (5.7 in). Humidity levels remain similar, with May at 78% and June slightly higher at 79%. For more detailed information, check out Baltimore weather in June.

May and July present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a pleasant average of 18°C (65°F) during the day, peaking at 30°C (87°F). However, May also brings significant rainfall, with 145 mm (5.7 in) spread over 14 days and high humidity at 78%. In contrast, July warms up considerably, with minimum temperatures starting at 17°C (63°F), an average of 27°C (80°F), and highs reaching 35°C (96°F). While July sees slightly more precipitation at 151 mm (6.0 in) over just 13 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 74%. For more detailed information, check out Baltimore weather in July.

In comparing the weather of May and August, there are distinct differences in temperature and humidity levels. May begins with cooler conditions, showcasing a minimum temperature of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), while August offers comfortably warmer temperatures with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F). Additionally, August features slightly fewer humid conditions at 72%, compared to May's 78%. Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with May receiving 145 mm (5.7 in) over 14 days and August experiencing 143 mm (5.6 in) over 16 days. For more details on weather patterns during this month, you can check Baltimore weather in August.

May and September present distinct weather characteristics, making them unique months in terms of climate. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). During this month, there's more precipitation, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in) over around 14 days, along with higher humidity levels at 78%. In contrast, September boasts a milder minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and a slightly warmer average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a maximum of 32°C (89°F). The precipitation decreases to 111 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 10 days, with a humidity level of 75%. For more detailed insights into the climate during this month, check out Baltimore weather in September.

May and October present distinct weather patterns, each with their unique characteristics. In May, temperatures can vary widely, with lows of 3°C (38°F) and highs reaching up to 30°C (87°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). The month tends to be quite humid, with an average humidity of 78% and significant precipitation of 145 mm (5.7 in) over approximately 14 days.

Conversely, October offers a slightly cooler climate with minimum temperatures of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while reaching maximums of around 32°C (91°F). Rainfall is somewhat lower than in May, totaling 123 mm (4.8 in) and occurring over about 11 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 81%. For a detailed look at October weather specifics, you can check Baltimore weather in October.

May and November present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, averaging around 18°C (65°F). The month is quite humid with a humidity level of 78%, accompanied by 14 days of precipitation totaling 145 mm (5.7 in). In comparison, November features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 23°C (73°F). The month experiences a slight decrease in rainfall, with 90 mm (3.6 in) spread over 8 days, and a higher humidity level of 85%. For more specifics on November weather, you can check Baltimore weather in November.

May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a cool 3°C (38°F) to a warm 30°C (87°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F), while December experiences a much colder climate, with temperatures fluctuating between -9°C (16°F) and 17°C (64°F), and an average of only 5°C (41°F). Precipitation is also notable in May, amounting to 145 mm (5.7 in) over 14 days, compared to December’s 116 mm (4.6 in) over just 9 days. Furthermore, May has a humidity level of 78%, slightly lower than December’s 84%, which can contribute to the chilly feeling in the latter month. For more detailed weather information, you can check Baltimore weather in December.

Compare Baltimore's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Baltimore

As May unfolds in Baltimore, the weather transitions into a lively mix of warmth and humidity, setting it apart from the cooler months preceding it. With average temperatures rising to a comfortable 18°C (65°F), residents begin to enjoy more outdoor activities. However, they should also be prepared for frequent rainfall, as 14 days of precipitation can contribute to the 145 mm of moisture typical for the month. This blend of warmth and wetness results in a rich tapestry of springtime vibrancy, making May a unique and dynamic month in the Baltimore climate calendar. For more insights on what to expect throughout the year, visit Baltimore Climate.