Last updated: February 24, 2025
Experience the dynamic May weather in Big Sky, United States, where temperatures fluctuate from a cool -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). As spring unfolds, residents and visitors can expect considerable precipitation, with a total of 89 mm (3.5 in) falling over 19 days. Humidity levels remain elevated at 79%, contributing to a refreshing yet unpredictable climate. Whether you're admiring the lush landscapes or preparing for a sudden shower, May in Big Sky promises a unique blend of challenges and beauty.
In May, Big Sky, United States, begins to shed its wintry coat, revealing a more temperate climate that signals the arrival of spring. The month's temperatures range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at night to a pleasant 21°C (70°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F). This transition marks a significant departure from the frigid depths of winter, where January and February saw lows plummeting to -28°C (-19°F) and -33°C (-27°F) respectively. As the snow begins to melt and the landscapes awaken, May offers an invigorating blend of fresh mountain air and sunny days, setting the stage for the warmer months ahead. The gradual increase in temperature from April’s max of 15°C (59°F) to May’s 21°C (70°F) showcases a definitive trend toward milder weather, perfect for outdoor adventures amid the stunning natural beauty of this renowned region.
In May, Big Sky experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain spread over 19 days, marking a slight uptick from April’s 90 mm (3.6 in) but with more frequent wet days. This trend suggests a shift towards more consistent moisture as spring transitions into summer, creating a lush environment. The rainfall in May not only contributes to the vibrant greenery characteristic of the season but also prepares the landscape for the upcoming June, which sees even higher precipitation levels, averaging 102 mm (4.0 in). As the region moves from the spring months, the increasing precipitation sets the stage for Big Sky’s renowned summer activities, enhancing the natural beauty and recreational opportunities the area has to offer.
In May, Big Sky experiences a noticeable shift in humidity, with levels dropping to 79%—a significant decrease from the preceding months. As the spring season unfolds, the region transitions from winter's moist embrace to a drier warmth that heralds summer. This gradual decline in humidity, consistent with the trend seen through the months, marks a downward trajectory from a high of 93% in January to a more comfortable atmosphere come June, where humidity further drops to 76%. The change not only enhances the outdoor experience in this picturesque locale but also hints at the vibrant, drier months ahead, as the summer sun begins to take center stage.
In May, Big Sky experiences a significant surge in UV intensity, with an extreme UV Index of 11. This dramatic rise from previous months marks a shift into a season where sun protection becomes paramount, as the burn time drastically decreases to just 10 minutes. Following April's already high levels, May solidifies the trend toward heightened sun exposure, setting the stage for an active summer ahead. This pattern continues into June and July, where the UV readings remain similarly alarming. As outdoor activities ramp up, it’s crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about the UV Index and prioritize their skin health. For more details, visit Big Sky UV Index.
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May brings a vibrant burst of sunshine to Big Sky, with 322 hours of radiant daylight illuminating the landscape. This month marks a significant leap from the 275 hours recorded in April, perfectly capturing the essence of spring’s full swing. As the days grow longer and warmer, May serves as a delightful precursor to the peak summer months, which shine even brighter with 356 hours of sunshine in June and 392 hours in July. This upward trend showcases Big Sky's stunning transformation, where each hour of sunshine paints a picturesque canvas for outdoor adventures, making May a delightful time to embrace the beauty of nature before the summer rush.
As May rolls into Big Sky, the chances of sunny weather stand at 39%, suggesting a moderate likelihood of clear skies. This figure remains consistent with the trend observed in April (45%) and March (48%), indicating that while spring days may have their fair share of sunshine, they are still somewhat elusive. However, the forecast brightens significantly as summer approaches, with June boasting a striking 73% chance of sun, setting the stage for the warm and vibrant months ahead. Thus, while May may not guarantee a sunny getaway, it does hint at the sun-soaked days that are just around the corner.
In Big Sky, United States, May marks a delightful transition into longer days, showcasing an average of 14 hours of daylight. This increase comes after a steady rise throughout the spring months, beginning at 11 hours in March and blossoming to 13 hours in April. As the month unfolds, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the vibrant energy of the outdoors, accompanied by warm evenings that invite extended activities. Contrasting with the winter months, where daylight dwindles to just 9 hours in January, May stands out as a beacon of lengthy sunshine, setting the stage for the even brighter days ahead in June and July, which boast the year’s peak daylight.
In Big Sky, United States, the month of May experiences a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), marking a slight dip from the preceding months. This trend of lower wind speeds continues the pattern seen in early spring, where April and the months prior generally hover around similar figures. Interestingly, as the year progresses into summer, wind speeds tend to stabilize around 2.5 m/s (5 mph) in June, reflecting a consistent but relaxed airflow. Contrarily, late spring hints at a transition, as May's soft winds may provide a tranquil atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities against the backdrop of Big Sky's majestic landscapes.
The weather in Big Sky 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 Big Sky and find detailed weather information for every month.
In May, the weather experiences a significant rise in temperatures, with daily averages hovering around 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching up to 21°C (70°F). The month also sees a considerable amount of precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, with humidity levels at 79%. In contrast, January is characterized by much colder conditions, with an average temperature of -9°C (16°F) and minimums plunging to -28°C (-19°F). While January has less precipitation at only 42 mm (1.6 in) spread over 11 days, it boasts higher humidity at 93%. For a closer look at January conditions, you can visit Big Sky weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, the differences are striking. May generally enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and a max of 21°C (70°F), while February is much colder, averaging -9°C (15°F) and only reaching a maximum of 5°C (42°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with May receiving 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days and February slightly less at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in February at 92% compared to May's 79%, contributing to a more frigid atmosphere during winter. For more details on February weather specifics, you can check Big Sky weather in February.
In comparing the weather of March and May, it's clear that May experiences significantly milder temperatures, with averages around 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 21°C (70°F), whereas March has a much colder mean of -4°C (26°F) and a maximum of only 12°C (53°F). Furthermore, while May sees more precipitation at 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, March has a somewhat lower total of 65 mm (2.6 in) spread over 13 days. Humidity levels are relatively comparable, with March being slightly more humid at 89% compared to May's 79%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can check Big Sky weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, it is clear that May marks a transition to warmer conditions. May experiences a minimum temperature of -11°C (13°F), an average of 3°C (38°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, April sees lower temperature extremes, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), peaking at 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with May receiving 89 mm (3.5 in) across 19 days and April slightly higher at 90 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days. Humidity also drops slightly in May to 79% compared to April's 83%. For those interested in a more detailed look at April's climate, you can explore Big Sky weather in April.
May and June present noticeable differences in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of around 3°C (38°F). The month sees around 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread across 19 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 79%. In contrast, June warms up with minimum temperatures of -8°C (17°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), resulting in a more pleasant average of 10°C (51°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation at 102 mm (4.0 in) over 16 days, it maintains a lower humidity level of 76%. For a detailed look at weather conditions during this month, you can visit Big Sky weather in June.
May and July showcase a significant contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a mild maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F). The month is marked by higher precipitation levels, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, and an average humidity of 79%. In contrast, July experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching 29°C (85°F), resulting in an average temperature of 15°C (60°F). This month also enjoys lower precipitation, with only 44 mm (1.7 in) across 12 days, and a slightly reduced humidity of 74%. For more details about July weather, you can visit Big Sky weather in July.
May and August exhibit distinct weather characteristics that highlight the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at night to a comfortable 21°C (70°F) during the day, with an average of 3°C (38°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, coupled with high humidity levels around 79%. In contrast, August brings milder nights with temperatures dipping to -2°C (29°F) and warm days peaking at 29°C (85°F), averaging 14°C (58°F). The summer month experiences less precipitation, with only 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days and lower humidity at 69%. For a more detailed look at the weather conditions during this time, check out Big Sky weather in August.
In comparing the weather of May and September, we see a distinct shift in temperature and precipitation patterns. May has a chilly minimum temperature of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while September experiences a milder minimum of -9°C (16°F) and a higher average of 9°C (48°F). Additionally, September boasts warmer maximum temperatures, reaching up to 28°C (83°F), compared to May's max of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in May is notably higher, with 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, whereas September sees less rain, with only 59 mm (2.3 in) over 8 days. The humidity levels also differ, as May has a higher humidity of 79%, while September's is more comfortable at 67%. For more details on September weather, check out Big Sky weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, notable differences emerge. May sees relatively mild temperatures, with an average of 3°C (38°F) and highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F), while October experiences much colder conditions, with an average of -1°C (31°F) and a notable low of -30°C (-22°F). Precipitation in May is slightly higher at 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, compared to October's 77 mm (3.0 in) across 14 days, contributing to a more humid atmosphere in May at 79% versus 72% in October. For a more detailed look at October conditions, visit Big Sky weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). During this month, precipitation amounts to 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, and humidity sits at 79%. In stark contrast, November experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), resulting in an average temperature of -5°C (23°F). Precipitation in November is lower, at 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, and humidity increases slightly to 89%. For more details about November weather, you can visit Big Sky weather in November.
May and December present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F). The month experiences a relatively high level of precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 19 days, coupled with a humidity level of 79%.
In contrast, December is much colder, with minimum temperatures reaching as low as -27°C (-15°F) and an average of -9°C (16°F). The maximum temperatures only climb to around 7°C (44°F). Precipitation during this month is lower, totaling 49 mm (1.9 in) across 13 days, but the humidity is noticeably higher at 94%. For a deeper understanding of December weather in this region, visit Big Sky weather in December.
May in Big Sky ushers in a significant transition in weather, where the lingering chill of winter begins to give way to the promise of spring. As temperatures rise and the average warms, the pleasant days are frequently punctuated by rain, resulting in a lush landscape that stands in stark contrast to the dry conditions of winter months. The months leading up to May see much harsher lows, while the gradual increase in daytime warmth, coupled with high humidity, provides a unique atmosphere. Despite the considerable precipitation, each drop nurtures the vibrant scenery that the region is known for. As this month sets the stage for the summer ahead, it’s clear that May offers a refreshing change that invigorates both the environment and the spirit. For more insights into the changing seasons, explore Big Sky Climate.