Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Traverse City, United States, showcases a delightful transition into warmer weather. With maximum temperatures reaching an inviting 32°C (89°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), residents and visitors alike can enjoy the blossoming landscapes. However, it's not without its quirks, as the month also experiences minimum temperatures dropping to -1°C (30°F). The region sees 116 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, contributing to an 82% humidity that enhances the freshness of spring. This blend of warmth and moisture creates a vibrant backdrop for outdoor activities and blooming flora, making May a captivating month in Traverse City.
As spring arrives in Traverse City, United States, May marks a significant transition in temperatures, showcasing a real departure from the harsh winter months. With minimums hovering around -1°C (30°F) and averages climbing to about 12°C (53°F), the weather feels markedly milder. The maximum temperatures soar to a pleasant 32°C (89°F), inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the blossoming outdoor activities. This month serves as a bridge to summer, illustrating a clear upward trend in warmth as it follows April’s lingering chill. As nature awakens, the weather in May becomes not just a transition but a vibrant herald of the vibrant days ahead.
In May, Traverse City experiences a noticeable uptick in precipitation, with an average of 116 mm (4.5 in) spread over approximately 12 days. This increase marks a significant rise from the previous months, reflecting the transition into the lush foliage of spring. April’s precipitation stands at 98 mm (3.9 in), illustrating a clear upward trend leading into May. Compared to the drier summer months, May's rainfall lays the groundwork for vibrant blooms and thriving greenery, positioning it as a pivotal month in the region's climatic pattern. As the city eagerly anticipates summer, May’s showers play a crucial role in nourishing the landscape, making it a celebrated time for nature lovers.
As spring gives way to early summer, May in Traverse City marks a noticeable shift in humidity levels. Starting the year with a high of 91% in January and February, the region experiences a gradual decline, settling at 82% in May. This drop reflects a trend of decreasing humidity as temperatures rise, paving the way for more comfortable outdoor activities. The transition is particularly evident when comparing it to the earlier spring months, April's 87% humidity gives way to a more pleasant atmosphere. As the state prepares for summer, the air becomes less heavy, enhancing the allure of this charming lakeside town.
As spring transitions into summer, May marks a significant uptick in the UV Index for Traverse City, soaring to a very high level of 9. This stark increase from April's 7 highlights the need for heightened sun safety awareness, as the burn time decreases to just 15 minutes. The trend of intensifying ultraviolet radiation continues into June and July, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 10. With these shifts, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay vigilant and protect their skin, especially in the beautiful outdoor settings that Traverse City is known for. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit Traverse City UV Index.
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Traverse City basks in the radiant glory of May, welcoming an impressive 304 hours of sunshine that heralds the arrival of warm weather. This marks a significant increase from the preceding months, as the sunshine hours climb steadily from 83 in January to 244 in April. May's abundant light not only signals the transition into summer but also positions it as a pivotal month in the annual sunshine trend, bridging the gap to the peak in June with 334 hours. This upward trajectory continues through the summer, reflecting a vibrant seasonal shift that makes Traverse City a shining gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As the year progresses, the gradual decline in sunshine hours begins, offering a glimpse of the gentle ebbs and flows of Traverse City's captivating climate.
As spring unfolds in Traverse City, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a noticeable leap in May, reaching 46%, up from April's 34%. This upward trend marks a significant shift after the long, grey months of winter, where January bathed in only 9% sunshine and February offered a mere 21%. As the season progresses, June continues this sunny trajectory with a 47% chance, gradually leading into the sun-soaked months of summer. With each passing month, the increasing sunshine tantalizes residents and visitors alike, setting the stage for outdoor adventures and cherished moments under the sun. Thus, May stands as a delightful bridge between the lingering coolness of spring and the warm embrace of the approaching summer.
In Traverse City, the arrival of May signals a delightful surge in daylight hours, with the month basking in 14 hours of sunlight. This vibrant increase follows a steady progression from January's 9 hours, illustrating the gradual awakening of spring. As winter transitions into warmer months, April's 13 hours of daylight paves the way for May's longer evenings, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy more time outdoors. This upward trend continues as summer creeps in, peaking in June and July at 15 hours. However, as the year progresses towards fall, daylight hours begin to wane, creating a rhythmic pattern that beautifully illustrates the changing seasons and encourages outdoor activities in the sun-soaked days of late spring.
In May, Traverse City experiences a gentle wind, with an average speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph). This slight drop from the previous months reflects a seasonal transition, as the city shifts from the brisk winds of early spring. Notably, March saw a peak at 4.3 m/s (10 mph), showcasing the tail end of winter. As summer approaches, the winds continue to soften, with a consistent drift of 3.1 m/s (7 mph) in June and July. This trend indicates a calming atmosphere typical of late spring and early summer, offering residents and visitors a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities while still enjoying the gentle character of the season. Overall, May's winds contribute to a peaceful yet refreshing ambiance, setting the stage for the warmer months ahead.
The weather in Traverse City 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 Traverse City and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in May and January, the differences are striking. May experiences a much milder temperature range, with averages around 12°C (53°F) and highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F), while January is characterized by frigid conditions, with average temperatures hovering around -4°C (24°F) and lows dipping to -24°C (-10°F). In terms of precipitation, May sees more rainfall, amounting to 116 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days, compared to January's 58 mm (2.3 in) across 13 days. Additionally, while May has a moderately high humidity level of 82%, January's humidity is slightly higher at 91%. For a closer look at the chilly conditions, check out Traverse City weather in January.
May and February offer starkly contrasting weather conditions. In February, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This month typically sees about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with a humidity level of 91%. Conversely, May experiences a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -1°C (30°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), soaring to a maximum of 32°C (89°F). Despite receiving more precipitation at 116 mm (4.5 in) over the same number of days, May enjoys significantly lower humidity at 82%. For more details on February's weather, you can visit Traverse City weather in February.
May and March present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a more moderate maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average temperature around -1°C (31°F). This month sees a total precipitation of 60 mm (2.4 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 87%. In comparison, May offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a high of 32°C (89°F), resulting in a more pleasant average of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation increases to 116 mm (4.5 in), occurring over 12 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 82%. For a more detailed comparison of March weather, you can check Traverse City weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, one can observe a significant warming trend as spring progresses. April's temperatures ranged from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). In contrast, May showcases a broader temperature range, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a peak of 32°C (89°F).
Additionally, while both months experienced a fair amount of precipitation—98 mm (3.9 in) in April and 116 mm (4.5 in) in May—April had one more day of rain, totaling 13 days compared to May's 12 days. The humidity levels also suggest a slightly drier feel in May at 82% compared to April's higher 87%. For a detailed overview of April weather, check out Traverse City weather in April.
In comparing the weather between May and June, May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -1°C (30°F) and maximums peaking at 32°C (89°F). In contrast, June offers a milder profile, with minimums beginning at 4°C (39°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with May receiving 116 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days and June having slightly less at 107 mm (4.2 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in June at 79% compared to May's 82%. For a more detailed look at June weather patterns, check out Traverse City weather in June.
When comparing the weather in May and July, one can observe notable differences in both temperature and humidity. May experiences a wider temperature range, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), leading to an average of 12°C (53°F). In contrast, July boasts milder minimum temperatures of 12°C (54°F) and a more consistently warm average of 21°C (71°F), reaching highs of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation levels are slightly lower in July, with 106 mm (4.2 in) falling over 9 days, compared to May's 116 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days. Additionally, July has a lower humidity level of 75%, making it feel less muggy than May's higher humidity of 82%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Traverse City weather in July.
May and August present distinct weather patterns. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to -1°C (30°F) and maximums soaring to 32°C (89°F), while averaging around 12°C (53°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days and a higher humidity level of 82%. In contrast, August has milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (48°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). Rainfall in August is less, at 89 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, and humidity decreases to 76%. For more detailed insights into August weather, you can check Traverse City weather in August.
May and September offer distinct weather experiences. In May, temperatures can dip as low as -1°C (30°F) but generally average around 12°C (53°F), with highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F). This month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.5 in) over about 12 days and high humidity at 82%. In contrast, September enjoys a milder climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 2°C (36°F) and averaging 17°C (63°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). The rainfall is less, amounting to 80 mm (3.1 in) also over 12 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 79%. For more details, check out Traverse City weather in September.
May and October offer distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures can range significantly, with minimums dropping to -1°C (30°F) and maximums reaching a warm 32°C (89°F), averaging around 12°C (53°F). The month sees precipitation totaling 116 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 12 days, with humidity levels averaging 82%. In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), while still recording minimums at -1°C (30°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 135 mm (5.3 in) over 18 days, with humidity remaining comparable at 83%. For more insights on this month, check out Traverse City weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly -1°C (30°F) at night to a warm 32°C (89°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (53°F). It experiences considerable precipitation of 116 mm (4.5 in) over about 12 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with 82% humidity. In stark contrast, November features much colder temperatures, with nightly lows dropping to -11°C (12°F) and daytime highs peaking at 23°C (74°F), yielding an average of just 3°C (38°F). Precipitation decreases to 79 mm (3.1 in) spread over 15 days, but the humidity remains high at 86%. For more insights about the weather in November, you can visit Traverse City weather in November.
In May, the weather is generally milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) and an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation occurs over about 12 days, totaling 116 mm (4.5 in), while humidity hovers around 82%. In contrast, December brings significantly colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F). While there is less precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, humidity increases slightly to 87%. For more details on December weather trends, refer to Traverse City weather in December.
As May unfolds in Traverse City, it brings a vibrant transition from the chill of early spring to the warmth of summer, setting the stage for delightful outdoor adventures. With maximum temperatures reaching a cozy 32°C and an average that hovers around 12°C, this month offers a refreshing reprieve from the colder months. While 116 mm of precipitation over 12 days ensures the landscape remains lush and vibrant, the humidity at 82% creates a pleasantly mild atmosphere perfect for exploring the great outdoors. May stands out as a month of awakening, contrasting sharply with the colder, drier conditions of winter and signaling an impending summer full of possibilities. For more insights into weather patterns throughout the year, explore the full details at Traverse City Climate.