May Weather in Raleigh, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Raleigh, United States, the average temperature in May is a pleasant 23°C (74°F). However, be prepared for a range: temperatures can dip to a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and soar to a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Expect 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, contributing to an average humidity level of 73%. Stay comfortable and enjoy your time in this dynamic climate!

May Temperature in Raleigh

In May in Raleigh, the average temperature is 23°C (74°F). Maximums can reach 35°C (95°F), while minimums can drop as low as 8°C (46°F). This makes Raleigh an ideal destination for travelers seeking a pleasant and varied climate.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Raleigh, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Raleigh, May typically has an average temperature of 23°C (74°F), with highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) and lows dropping to around 8°C (46°F).

Data source: Temperature data for Raleigh generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May Precipitation in Raleigh

In Raleigh, in May, the precipitation amount is 145 mm (5.7 in) over a span of 11 days.

May Precipitation Trends in Raleigh

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Raleigh, 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. In Raleigh, May typically receives around 145 mm (5.7 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 11 days.

Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

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Millimeters (mm) Inches (in)

May Humidity in Raleigh

In Raleigh in May, humidity is 73%. With an average temperature of 23°C (74°F), this humidity feels like a warm, enveloping blanket, making traveling a bit sweaty and heavy, but still pleasant if you stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.

May Average Humidity in Raleigh

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Raleigh, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Raleigh is approximately 73%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.

Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Raleigh

In Raleigh in May, the maximum UV index reaches 11, which corresponds to an extreme Exposure Category. With a time to burn of just 10 minutes, it's essential to take precautions. For more details, you can check the Hourly UV Index in Raleigh.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Raleigh for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Raleigh 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. In May, the maximum UV index in Raleigh typically reaches 11, which falls under the extreme exposure category.

Data source: Raleigh 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.

How May Weather in Raleigh Compares to Other Months

Weather in Raleigh varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Raleigh, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Raleigh, showing how May’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
	Temperature	Precipitation	Humidity	UV
January Weather	9°C (49°F)	110 mm (4.3 inches)	82%	moderate
February Weather	12°C (55°F)	142 mm (5.6 inches)	80%	high
March Weather	16°C (61°F)	128 mm (5.0 inches)	80%	very high
April Weather	18°C (65°F)	142 mm (5.6 inches)	78%	extreme
May Weather	23°C (74°F)	145 mm (5.7 inches)	73%	extreme
June Weather	26°C (79°F)	166 mm (6.5 inches)	71%	extreme
July Weather	27°C (81°F)	129 mm (5.1 inches)	79%	extreme
August Weather	27°C (81°F)	143 mm (5.6 inches)	78%	extreme
September Weather	26°C (78°F)	95 mm (3.7 inches)	80%	very high
October Weather	21°C (70°F)	94 mm (3.7 inches)	76%	very high
November Weather	13°C (56°F)	73 mm (2.9 inches)	83%	high
December Weather	11°C (52°F)	130 mm (5.1 inches)	87%	moderate