May Weather in Barnstable, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Barnstable, United States, May ushers in a blend of mild temperatures and refreshing rainfall, creating a picturesque spring atmosphere. The month showcases a maximum temperature of 21°C (70°F), while the average settles around 12°C (53°F), and the minimum dips to a cool 5°C (41°F). Rain is a common companion, contributing with 119 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days, leading to a humidity level of approximately 75%. This combination fosters a lush environment, perfect for outdoor activities and the blooming of vibrant flora across the region.

May Temperature in Barnstable

In May, Barnstable begins to shake off the chill of winter, with temperatures gradually rising as spring settles in. The month typically sees a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), making outdoor activities more enjoyable. With maximum temperatures reaching 21°C (70°F), it's the perfect time to explore the blossoming landscape or enjoy a leisurely stroll by the water. This shift marks a significant transition from the colder months, as May's mild climate highlights the approach of summer, inviting residents and visitors alike to relish the warmth and vibrant atmosphere.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Barnstable, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec353638455363707266594839
Data source: Temperature data for Barnstable 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 Barnstable

May in Barnstable brings an average precipitation of 119 mm (4.7 inches), continuing the trend of significant rainfall observed in the earlier months of spring. With 12 days of rain, May maintains a consistent pattern seen from April's 137 mm (5.4 inches), indicating a steady spring growth period for vegetation. This slight decrease in precipitation amounts is a precursor to the drier summer months ahead, as June witnesses a drop to 91 mm (3.6 inches). Overall, May's weather serves as a bridge between the lush, rain-soaked spring and the sunnier, less humid days of summer in Barnstable.

May Precipitation Trends in Barnstable

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Barnstable, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec94123118137119918382118175102136
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Barnstable

In Barnstable, United States, May marks a gradual shift in humidity levels, with an average of 75%, reflecting a notable decrease from the 84% seen in the depths of winter. This decline continues the trend started in April, where humidity dipped to 79%. As spring progresses into summer, the region witnesses a consistent pattern, with humidity levels hovering in the mid-seventies from May through September. This slight shift not only enhances outdoor comfort but also signals the approach of warmer days ahead, where the delightful balance of air and warmth creates the perfect environment for enjoying the local beaches and nature trails.

May Average Humidity in Barnstable

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Barnstable, 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%84%82%79%75%78%76%76%76%75%80%80%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Barnstable

As May arrives in Barnstable, the UV Index ramps up significantly, reaching a striking 9, categorized as very high. This trend marks a continuation of increasing UV exposure, following April's UV Index of 8. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to take precautions to protect their skin, particularly as the summer months approach. June will see an even higher peak of 10, emphasizing the importance of sun safety as we transition into the warmer season. Staying informed about local UV levels is crucial for enjoying the outdoors responsibly. For more detailed information, visit Barnstable UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Barnstable for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Barnstable 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3468910998642
Data source: Barnstable 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 Barnstable

As spring unfolds into May in Barnstable, the days grow noticeably brighter, with an impressive 298 hours of sunshine gracing the month. This vibrant increase from April's 243 hours signals the arrival of longer days and warmer weather, drawing residents and visitors alike outdoors to enjoy the blossoming landscape. The upward trend in sunshine continues through the summer, peaking in July with 346 hours, creating a sun-soaked atmosphere perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities. These sunny months transition into a gentler light in the fall, but by the time October arrives with 236 hours, the warmth of May remains a cherished memory as Barnstable basks in its seasonal radiance.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Barnstable: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Barnstable 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec142h184h258h243h298h326h346h330h280h236h203h165h
Data source: Barnstable May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Barnstable During May

May in Barnstable offers a 41% chance of sunny weather, slightly lower than the more promising figures seen in March at 57% and April at 43%. This slight dip reflects a trend where the spring months generally feature higher probabilities of sunshine compared to the summer's often hazy days, with June and July dropping down to 38% and 37% respectively. As summer approaches, residents can expect to see fluctuations in sunny days, making May a delightful time for outdoor activities, even if the sun isn't guaranteed to shine brightly every day. Overall, while May might not boast the best odds of sunshine, it still stands out as a favorable month relative to the following summer months.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Barnstable

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Barnstable 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 Barnstable experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec36%28%57%43%41%38%37%35%49%44%52%28%
Data source: Barnstable May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Barnstable in May

As the spring months roll into May in Barnstable, the days stretch longer, welcoming an exhilarating 14 hours of daylight. This surge in sunlight reflects the gradual transition from winter's dimness to the vibrancy of summer, where daylight peaks at 15 hours in June. Following May, daylight begins to recede slightly in the summer months but remains abundantly present, with 14 hours in July. The trend illustrates a compelling rhythm of nature, with periods of increasing light leading to a gradual decline as autumn approaches, ultimately returning to 9 hours in January and December. Embracing May’s longer days allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors and relish in the beauty of the season's transition.

Average Daylight Hours in Barnstable for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Barnstable 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 49m13h 45m12h 25m11h 1m9h 48m9h 11m
Data source: Barnstable daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Barnstable

In May, Barnstable experiences a gentle shift in wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 5.9 m/s (13 mph), marking a noticeable decline from the breezier months of winter and early spring. This trend showcases a seasonal transition as winds begin to calm, setting the stage for the warmer summer months ahead. Interestingly, while May maintains a moderate breeze, it is notably softer than the stronger gusts seen in January (7.1 m/s) through April (6.5 m/s). As we move into June, the winds pick up slightly again to 6.2 m/s (14 mph), signaling a dynamic and evolving climate in Barnstable that encapsulates the essence of New England weather.

Average May Wind Speed in Barnstable

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Barnstable, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7.17.27.06.55.9 m/s6.25.24.85.96.66.76.6
Data source: Barnstable May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Barnstable Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). The month experiences around 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, creating a moderately humid environment at 75%. Conversely, January is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -14°C (6°F) and peaking at 13°C (55°F), leading to an average of just 2°C (36°F). Even though January has slightly less precipitation at 94 mm (3.7 in) over about 10 days, the humidity is higher at 84%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Barnstable weather in January.

In comparing the weather of May and February, it becomes clear that May experiences significantly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), while February is much colder, showcasing a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F). Despite both months receiving a similar amount of precipitation—119 mm (4.7 in) in May and 123 mm (4.8 in) in February—the key difference lies in their average temperatures and humidity levels, with May averaging 12°C (53°F) and 75% humidity compared to February’s average of 2°C (36°F) and higher humidity at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check Barnstable weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, May tends to be significantly warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), while March sees much colder conditions with temperatures ranging from -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with May receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days and March receiving 118 mm (4.7 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels in May average around 75%, which is slightly lower than March's higher humidity of 82%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can visit Barnstable weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, we see a notable increase in temperature from April to May. April starts off cooler, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (33°F) and an average of 7°C (46°F), while May boasts a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). However, April experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days, compared to May’s 119 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally higher in April at 79%, compared to May's 75%. For more detailed insights into April's weather, you can visit Barnstable weather in April.

May and June exhibit noticeable differences in weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). The month sees considerable rainfall, with 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days and a relative humidity of 75%. In contrast, June experiences a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (51°F) to 24°C (76°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation decreases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over just 10 days, while humidity slightly rises to 78%. For more details, check out Barnstable weather in June.

May weather tends to be cooler and wetter compared to July, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 5°C (41°F) at night to a pleasant 21°C (70°F) during the day. The month sees significant rainfall, accumulating around 119 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 12 days and a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, July offers much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 16°C (61°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Rainfall is lighter in July, with only 83 mm (3.3 in) over 9 days, while humidity slightly increases to 76%. For more specific insights on July conditions, you can visit Barnstable weather in July.

May and August present quite contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). However, this month also brings significant rainfall, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) over about 12 days, and a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, August enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging around 22°C (72°F). Precipitation in August is lighter, at 82 mm (3.2 in) over just 8 days, with humidity slightly higher at 76%. For more details on August weather, check out Barnstable weather in August.

In May, temperatures typically range from a cool 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of around 12°C (53°F). This month experiences around 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. In comparison, September enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). While precipitation is similar at 118 mm (4.7 in), it occurs over fewer days, about 10, maintaining the same humidity level of 75%. For more detailed insights, check out Barnstable weather in September.

In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). The month typically sees around 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days and maintains a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, October experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). However, it is wetter, accumulating about 175 mm (6.9 in) of precipitation over the same number of rainy days. Both months share a humidity level of 75%, but the autumn air in October brings a different feel to the weather. For more specific details on October conditions, you can visit Barnstable weather in October.

In May, temperatures begin to warm up, with minimums around 5°C (41°F) and average highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F), accompanied by a pleasant humidity level of 75%. However, rainfall is relatively common, as May experiences about 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum dipping to -6°C (21°F) and average highs around 19°C (66°F). While it is slightly drier with 102 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 10 days, humidity increases to 80%. This shift highlights the transition from the mild, budding spring of May to the chillier, late fall of November. For more specific details on November weather, you can refer to Barnstable weather in November.

In May, temperatures range from a pleasant minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). The month experiences 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, December brings a stark chill, with temperatures dipping as low as -12°C (11°F) and only reaching a maximum of 15°C (60°F), resulting in an average of just 4°C (40°F). Though December has a slightly higher total precipitation of 136 mm (5.4 in) over the same number of days, the increased humidity of 80% adds to the cold discomfort. For more insights on December's climate, you can check Barnstable weather in December.

Compare Barnstable's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Barnstable

As spring transitions into summer, May weather in Barnstable brings a delightful shift from the chill of earlier months. With temperatures rising, the pleasant warmth envelops the region, making it a refreshing contrast to the cooler April days. While you may encounter frequent rain with humidity levels around 75%, these elements also contribute to the lush scenery that characterizes this time of year. The rich tapestry of spring blooms and vibrant greenery truly showcases why May is a beloved month for both locals and visitors alike. To learn more about the overall climate patterns and nuances, visit Barnstable Climate.