Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Cambridge, United States, unveils a delightful tapestry of springtime weather, with temperatures ranging from a pleasant 3°C (37°F) at night to a balmy 30°C (87°F) during the day. The average temperature settles around a comfortable 14°C (57°F), inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blossoming outdoors. However, nature's charm comes with a touch of rain, as 11 days of precipitation contribute to a notable 91 mm (3.6 in) of moisture, enhancing the lush scenery. With an average humidity level of 72%, May is a month where the freshness of spring is palpable, making it a perfect time to explore the vibrant landscape of Cambridge.
In Cambridge, United States, the month of May signals a delightful transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of summer. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), this month showcases a remarkable shift in climate. The average temperature sits comfortably at 14°C (57°F), inviting outdoor activities and the flourishing of nature. Notably, May's warmth contrasts sharply with the still-cool nights of earlier months, as April begins to hint at spring's arrival. The increase in warmth paves the way for the summer months ahead, making May a vibrant and pleasant time in Cambridge, where residents can finally shed their winter layers and bask in the brighter, longer days.
In May, Cambridge experiences 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation, occurring over approximately 11 days. This consistent rain reflects a transitional phase as the city moves from the wetter spring months into the summer season. Notably, while May's rainfall is less than April's substantial 141 mm (5.6 in), it maintains a steady rhythm typical of the season, suggesting favorable conditions for blooming landscapes. Interestingly, this trend of moderate rainfall continues into June, where amounts slightly decrease to 87 mm (3.4 in), indicating a potential shift towards drier weather as summer approaches. Overall, May serves as a pivotal month, balancing between spring’s lushness and the drier patterns expected in the warmer months ahead.
In May, Cambridge, United States experiences a noticeable drop in humidity to 72%, marking a significant decrease from the winter months when humidity levels hover above 80%. This shift signals the arrival of milder temperatures and more comfortable conditions as spring transitions into summer. Interestingly, the humidity remains consistent through June, but starts to decline more sharply in the following months, reaching as low as 66% in August. Overall, the trend illustrates a gradual easing of moisture levels as the year progresses, enhancing the city's inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities and exploration.
As spring gives way to summer in Cambridge, the UV Index experiences a significant uptick, with May reaching a high of 9 on the scale, categorizing it as very high and allowing for a quick burn time of just 15 minutes under direct sunlight. This trend signifies a marked increase in sun exposure risk compared to April's UV Index of 8. The climb from moderate levels of 3 in January to very high readings by May highlights the importance of sun safety as outdoor activities ramp up. With June peaking at a UV Index of 10, it's essential to take protective measures; staying informed is crucial. For more details on UV levels throughout the year in Cambridge, visit Cambridge UV Index.
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As spring blooms into summer, May emerges as a radiant month in Cambridge, Massachusetts, boasting 289 hours of sunshine. This marks a notable increase from the previous months, reflecting a steady upward trend in daylight that has been building since the beginning of the year. After starting with a modest 152 hours in January, the sunshine hours expand significantly through the spring, peaking in June with 327 hours. Throughout May, residents can revel in the brighter days, as warmth envelops the city, signaling the approach of summer and inviting outdoor activities against a backdrop of blossoming nature. This delightful ascent in sunshine not only lifts spirits but also heralds the vibrant energy that defines the upcoming summer months.
In May, residents of Cambridge, United States, can expect a moderate likelihood of sunny weather, with only 38% of the days typically bringing sunshine. This figure is a step down from the 61% chance in March but reflects a slight improvement compared to the preceding months of January and April. Interestingly, while June offers a marginal uptick at 40%, the overall trend shows that May continues to struggle with sunshine compared to other spring months. As the warmer months approach, the quest for sun becomes increasingly important, and while May might not deliver the brightest skies, it's part of an evolving seasonal pattern that residents look forward to each year.
As May arrives in Cambridge, the days blossom into a sun-filled panorama, offering an average of 14 hours of daylight. This surge in sunlight marks a significant increase from the 13 hours in April, highlighting the transition into spring and the approach of summer. Following the gradual ascent from 9 hours in January to 11 hours in March, residents begin to relish the extended evening light. After May, daylight starts to taper off slightly, with June peaking at 15 hours before the hours gradually retreat as summer fades. This rhythm of increasing and decreasing daylight creates a captivating seasonal cycle, inviting everyone to embrace the warmth and vibrancy that May brings to Cambridge.
As the heart of spring unfolds in Cambridge, May brings with it a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 4.0 m/s (9 mph). This slight dip from the previous months mirrors a gradual trend in decreasing wind speeds as the year transitions towards summer. After peaking at 4.9 m/s (11 mph) in March, the winds begin to calm, setting a tranquil atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls along the picturesque Charles River. As temperatures rise and nature flourishes, the moderate winds in May beautifully complement the blossoming scenery, creating an inviting backdrop for residents and visitors alike.
The weather in Cambridge 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 Cambridge and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a moderate humidity level of 72%. In contrast, January brings much colder conditions, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) and only reaching a maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). Although January has slightly less precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) across about 9 days, the humidity is notably higher at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check out Cambridge weather in January.
May and February showcase contrasting weather patterns, reflective of their positions within the seasonal cycle. May enjoys a milder average temperature of 14°C (57°F), with highs reaching up to 30°C (87°F), while February is notably colder, with an average of just 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). Despite February's cooler temperatures, it has a similar level of precipitation, with 96 mm (3.8 in) falling over 11 days, compared to May's 91 mm (3.6 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, February's humidity averages at a higher 84%, compared to May's 72%, indicating a more damp chill in the air during the winter month. For more detailed insights on February weather, refer to Cambridge weather in February.
May and March exhibit striking differences in weather patterns. May typically sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), significantly warmer than March, which has a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of just 3°C (38°F). While both months experience similar levels of precipitation—91 mm (3.6 in) in May and 96 mm (3.8 in) in March—March tends to be slightly wetter over fewer days, with precipitation occurring on 10 days compared to May's 11 days. Additionally, humidity in May averages around 72%, compared to March's higher average of 82%. For a detailed insight into March weather, you can check Cambridge weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, May presents a notable increase in average temperatures, rising from April’s average of 8°C (47°F) to 14°C (57°F). While April experiences a cooler minimum of -2°C (28°F), May’s temperatures start warmer at 3°C (37°F). However, April has a higher maximum temperature of 26°C (79°F) compared to May’s peak of 30°C (87°F). In terms of precipitation, April is wetter, with 141 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days, while May sees 91 mm (3.6 in) across 11 days despite having slightly lower humidity at 72% compared to April's 80%. For more detailed insights, visit Cambridge weather in April.
May and June showcase a noticeable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation across 11 days, maintaining a humidity level of 72%. Conversely, June experiences a gradual rise in temperatures, where the minimum is 8°C (46°F) and the maximum reaches 32°C (91°F), with an average temperature of 19°C (66°F). Rainfall slightly decreases to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 10 days, while the humidity remains unchanged at 72%. For more detailed information, you can visit Cambridge weather in June.
In comparing the weather of May and July, we observe distinct seasonal shifts. May features a broader temperature range, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), yielding an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences notable precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days, and higher humidity at 72%. In contrast, July sees a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures at 14°C (57°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (91°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 22°C (73°F). It also experiences slightly more precipitation at 116 mm (4.6 in) over the same number of days, but with reduced humidity at 67%. For more details about July weather, you can refer to Cambridge weather in July.
May and August present distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F) on particularly hot days. The month also sees considerable rainfall, with 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days and humidity levels at a relatively high 72%. In contrast, August offers milder nights with a minimum temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a warmer average of 22°C (73°F), reaching up to 32°C (91°F) at its hottest. Rainfall decreases to 72 mm (2.8 in) across 10 days, and humidity drops to 66%. For more detailed insights, check out Cambridge weather in August.
May and September present contrasting yet pleasant weather patterns, reflecting the transition between spring and autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average temperature of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences a fair amount of rainfall, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 11 days, and humidity levels hover around 72%.
In contrast, September brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and a peak of 32°C (90°F). Although it sees a little less precipitation at 84 mm (3.3 in) over about 8 days, the humidity remains comparable at 71%. For more details about what to expect, check out Cambridge weather in September.
In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month features a moderate level of precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days, alongside a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, October experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F). October is also wetter, recording 146 mm (5.8 in) of rain over the same number of days, and has slightly higher humidity at 78%. For more detailed information, you can check Cambridge weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences a moderate level of precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by a comfortable humidity of 72%. In contrast, November sees much colder weather, with temperatures dipping as low as -11°C (13°F) and peaking at 22°C (71°F), averaging around 6°C (44°F). While it receives a slightly higher amount of rainfall at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, the humidity rises to 84%, contributing to a brisk chill in the air. For more details on the November weather specifics, you can check Cambridge weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, significant differences are evident. May typically enjoys a mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 3°C (37°F) to a high of 30°C (87°F), while December brings much colder conditions, with an average temperature of just 2°C (35°F) and lows plunging to -18°C (0°F). Additionally, May sees about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, whereas December has higher precipitation levels at 129 mm (5.1 in) across 10 days, contributing to a more humid atmosphere with 81% humidity compared to May's 72%. For a closer look at the typical climate in December, visit Cambridge weather in December.
As May arrives in Cambridge, it brings a delightful mix of pleasant warmth and occasional rain, marking a distinct transition from the chill of earlier months. Temperatures soar compared to the earlier spring, reaching comfortable highs, while the average remains refreshingly mild. Rainfall is a common visitor this month, with several days of precipitation helping to keep the landscape vibrant and lush. The humidity adds a touch of mugginess, but overall, May's weather sets the stage for the bright summer ahead. For more detailed insights on what to expect, visit Cambridge Climate.