Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, Salem, United States experiences a vibrant transition into warmer weather, with maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (87°F), while the average sits comfortably at 14°C (57°F). The month brings a refreshing chill, with minimum temperatures dipping to 3°C (37°F). Rainfall contributes to the region's lush greenery, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days, creating a humid environment of 72%. This combination of warmth and occasional rain makes May a dynamic time in Salem, perfect for enjoying the blooming scenery and outdoor activities.
In May, Salem experiences a delightful transition into spring, with temperatures significantly rising compared to the preceding months. The minimum temperature hovers around 3°C (37°F), while the average climbs to a comfortable 14°C (57°F), peaking at a warm 30°C (87°F). This steady increase reflects the shift from the harsh winter chill to the pleasant warmth of early summer. As the month progresses, residents and visitors alike can enjoy longer, sunnier days, making May an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the lush landscapes that the region has to offer. The upward trend in temperatures not only signifies a change in climate but also invites a vibrant energy to the community as nature awakens in full bloom.
In Salem, May marks a transitional period in precipitation patterns, with the city receiving an average of 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain across 11 days. While the total rainfall in May is slightly lower than the 141 mm (5.6 in) recorded in April, it signifies a consistent spring wetness that aligns with the region's overall trend of gradual precipitation increase during the early months of the year. As May settles in, the rainfall begins to taper off, paving the way for drier summer months ahead, highlighted by June’s average of 87 mm (3.4 in). This steady rhythm of precipitation showcases Salem's unique climate, where the lush beauty of spring emerges from the balance of moisture, ensuring vibrant landscapes while hinting at the drier days to come.
As spring transitions into summer in Salem, United States, May brings a refreshing drop in humidity, averaging around 72%. This marks a notable decline from the more humid winter months, which saw levels peaking at 86% in January. April's humidity of 80% hints at the gradual easing, setting the stage for May's pleasant conditions. Following this trend, June maintains the same comfortable humidity, but the levels continue to decrease further into summer, with July and August experiencing even lower figures at 67% and 66%, respectively. This consistent drop not only enhances outdoor experiences but also shapes local climate patterns, creating a delightful atmosphere ideal for enjoying the blossoming flora and longer daylight hours of late spring.
As May approaches in Salem, the UV Index climbs to 9, signaling a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This increase is notable, following a steady rise from April's UV Index of 8. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it’s crucial for residents and visitors to take precautions by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen. This upward trend in UV levels continues into June, where the UV Index peaks at 10. Awareness of these changes in UV intensity can help ensure safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences throughout the spring and summer months. For more information, visit Salem UV Index.
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In Salem, United States, the month of May shines brightly with an impressive 289 hours of sunshine, marking a clear peak as warmer days take hold. This surge follows a steady upward trend from the early months of the year, with March and April laying the groundwork as sunshine hours gradually increased. As summer approaches, June and July see even more sunshine, reaching 327 and 334 hours respectively, showing that the longer days lead to consistently high sunshine totals. This delightful May sunshine not only enhances the beauty of the season but also sets the stage for the vibrant summer landscape that follows. The gradual transition from spring to summer is vividly reflected in the hour-by-hour embrace of sunlight, inviting both locals and visitors to indulge in the outdoors.
In Salem, the likelihood of sunny weather in May hovers around 38%, reflecting a trend of fluctuating sun exposure throughout the year. After a promising 61% in March, the chances dip in April and May, suggesting that spring's potential for brightness often gives way to cloudier days as the month progresses. Interestingly, while summer months like June and July bring a slight increase in sunny probabilities, they still fall below the peak experienced in March. This pattern indicates that May, with its moderate sun chance, may not be the best month for those seeking clear skies, but it can still offer pleasant, albeit occasionally overcast, days. Overall, May presents a transitional phase, as Salem prepares for summer while holding onto the last remnants of spring's sunshine.
In Salem, United States, May heralds a delightful transition into longer days, boasting 14 hours of daylight. This surge in hours follows a steady increase from the cold, short days of January, where sunlight barely reaches 9 hours. As winter fades, each month brings a gradual addition of light, with February and March enjoying 10 and 11 hours respectively. The leap becomes more pronounced in April, with the arrival of spring gifting us 13 hours of sunshine. This upward trend peaks in June at 15 hours, before tapering off slightly through the summer months. Thus, May stands as a vibrant turning point, poised between spring's bounty and summer's peak, inviting longer outdoor adventures as the days grow bright and warm.
In May, Salem experiences a subtle shift in its wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 4.0 m/s (9 mph). This marks a slight decrease from the breezier months of early spring like March, where winds reached up to 4.9 m/s (11 mph). The trend continues into June, bringing even calmer conditions, suggesting that as spring transitions to summer, the winds tend to soften, creating a more tranquil atmosphere. Overall, May serves as a bridge between the robust winds of spring and the stillness of summer, inviting residents to enjoy the mild weather amidst gentle breezes.
The weather in Salem 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 Salem and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January exhibit drastically different weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to winter. In May, temperatures vary from a cool 3°C (37°F) to a warm 30°C (87°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F), making it a month full of warmth and blooming landscapes. Conversely, January experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -20°C (-3°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), often blanketing the area in snow. While May sees approximately 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days at a humidity level of 72%, January has slightly less precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days but higher humidity at 86%. For a detailed comparison of weather in Salem specifically during January, you can visit Salem weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, there is a striking contrast in temperatures and conditions. May showcases a range of temperatures from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F), making it a distinctly warmer month. In contrast, February temperatures are significantly lower, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F), leading to an average of just 1°C (33°F). Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, around 91 mm (3.6 in) for May and 96 mm (3.8 in) for February, although the humidity is higher in February at 84% compared to May’s 72%. For a closer look at February weather specifics, you can refer to Salem weather in February.
May and March weather exhibit distinct differences in temperature and overall climate. 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), indicating a significant warming trend. In contrast, March experiences chillier temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging just 3°C (38°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with May receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days and March slightly higher at 96 mm (3.8 in) across 10 days. Humidity is slightly lower in May at 72%, compared to March’s 82%. For more detailed weather information for March, you can check Salem weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, May generally presents milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), an average of 14°C (57°F), and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). While April sees more precipitation at 141 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days, May has less, with 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days. Additionally, the humidity in April is slightly higher at 80% compared to May's 72%. For more details about the weather in April, you can check out Salem weather in April.
May and June display a notable shift in weather patterns, with June generally being warmer and slightly less rainy. 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) along with 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, June enjoys milder minimum temperatures at 8°C (46°F) and a higher average temperature of 19°C (66°F), peaking at 32°C (91°F). Notably, June has slightly less precipitation (87 mm or 3.4 in) and fewer rainy days, totaling 10. Despite the differences, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 72%. For a deeper dive into June weather specifics, check out Salem weather in June.
May weather is characterized by a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (87°F). In contrast, July sees a more stable temperature profile, with averages starting at a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and peaking at 33°C (91°F). Both months experience similar precipitation days at 11, but July records a slightly higher total rainfall of 116 mm (4.6 in) compared to May's 91 mm (3.6 in). Additionally, the humidity in May is notably higher at 72%, whereas July maintains a more comfortable level at 67%. For more specifics on July weather, you can check out Salem weather in July.
May and August exhibit distinct weather patterns that highlight the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 3°C (37°F) to an average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). The month is marked by higher precipitation, averaging 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days, accompanied by humidity levels of 72%. In contrast, August offers a warmer climate with minimum temperatures around 13°C (56°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F), reaching a maximum of 32°C (91°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 72 mm (2.8 in) over 10 days, and humidity falls to 66%. For more insight into the weather during this month, you can check Salem weather in August.
In comparing the weather of May and September, we notice a distinct difference in temperature and precipitation patterns. May typically experiences cooler nights with a minimum temperature of 3°C (37°F), while September starts with a milder minimum of 7°C (45°F). The average temperature in September is higher at 19°C (66°F) compared to May's 14°C (57°F), although both months can reach similar maximum temperatures, with September peaking at 32°C (90°F) and May at 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is fairly similar, with May seeing 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days and September having slightly less at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain comparable, with May at 72% and September slightly lower at 71%. For more specific insights, check out Salem weather in September.
May and October present quite distinct weather profiles. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a pleasant average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). The month experiences about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, with humidity levels at 72%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F), reaching a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation increases to 146 mm (5.8 in) over the same 11 days, and humidity rises slightly to 78%. For a more detailed look at October conditions, check out Salem weather in October.
May and November present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 3°C (37°F) to a warm 30°C (87°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences around 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and humidity hovers at 72%. In contrast, November brings much cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -11°C (13°F) and peaking at 22°C (71°F), averaging just 6°C (44°F). The precipitation in November is slightly higher at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 84%. For a closer look at weather specifics in November, check out Salem weather in November.
May weather offers a pleasant transition into warmer temperatures, with averages around 14°C (57°F) and highs reaching 30°C (87°F), making it a month of vibrant blooms and outdoor activities. However, this spring month also sees about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, maintaining humidity levels at 72%. In contrast, December brings a stark chill, with average temperatures dropping to just 2°C (35°F) and maximums barely reaching 16°C (62°F). With lows plunging to -18°C (0°F), the month has a higher precipitation rate of 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, and humidity levels rise to 81%, resulting in a colder, brisk atmosphere. For more details on December conditions, check out Salem weather in December.
As spring fully blooms in May, Salem experiences a delightful shift in weather patterns, standing out from the preceding months. Although temperatures elevate, reaching a pleasant average, the remnants of cooler days linger, ensuring a refreshing transition. This month also brings a notable increase in humidity, making the air feel alive and vibrant. While occasional rainfall contributes to overall precipitation, these showers are interspersed with plenty of sunny days, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the landscape's reawakening. For a comprehensive look at how Salem's climate evolves throughout the year, explore Salem Climate.