May Weather in Reno, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Reno, United States, showcases a dynamic weather pattern characterized by a maximum temperature soaring to 32°C (90°F), while the average settles at a comfortable 13°C (55°F). Nights can be quite chilly, with minimum temperatures dipping to -7°C (19°F). The month witnesses 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, contributing to a moderate humidity level of 64%. Overall, May offers a balance of warm days and cooler nights, making it an intriguing time for both residents and visitors to enjoy the burgeoning beauty of spring.

May Temperature in Reno

In Reno, United States, the month of May marks a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures steadily increasing from the chill of winter. The minimum temperature rises to a mild -7°C (19°F), while the average temperature climbs to 13°C (55°F), reaching a pleasant maximum of 32°C (90°F). This notable shift highlights May as a time of burgeoning warmth compared to the preceding months, where temperatures lingered around freezing. As spring unfolds, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the blooming outdoors, basking in the longer, sunnier days that characterize this vibrant month. The trend continues towards summer, suggesting that Reno is rapidly shaking off the last remnants of winter's chill.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Reno, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323338475566747364504132
Data source: Temperature data for Reno generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Reno

In May, Reno experiences a modest precipitation total of 39 mm (1.5 in), marking a slight uptick from April's 32 mm, yet remaining significantly lower than the winter months. Rain typically graces the region on about 8 days, contributing to a refreshing spring atmosphere as the city transitions toward summer. This pattern illustrates a gradual decline in rainfall as the year progresses, with May often serving as a pivotal month before the dry spell takes hold in June. Overall, while the rain in May is less abundant compared to the early months of the year, it plays a vital role in nourishing the burgeoning growth of local flora.

May Precipitation Trends in Reno

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Reno, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9187713239811118333965
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Reno

As spring blossoms into May in Reno, the humidity levels reflect the gradual shift towards a drier climate, with humidity dropping to 64%. This decrease marks a significant decline from the consistently high levels experienced in the winter months, where January and February are marked by the year’s peak humidity at 85% and 87%, respectively. By April, humidity begins to ease, setting the stage for the summer months when the air becomes increasingly arid, plummeting to just 44% by July. This trend illustrates a clear movement from the heavier, moist air of winter towards the crisp, dry conditions typical of Reno’s summer, inviting residents to enjoy the outdoors under sunny skies.

May Average Humidity in Reno

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Reno, with May's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how May's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%87%84%78%64%56%44%34%41%60%81%82%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Reno

In May, Reno experiences a significant surge in the UV Index, reaching a staggering 11, categorized as extreme and resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. This sharp contrast from the earlier months highlights a clear trend of increasing UV exposure as the season transitions into summer. After a steady climb from a moderate index of 4 in January, the UV levels escalate rather dramatically through February and March, ultimately peaking in May. Residents and visitors should take this warning seriously, ensuring protection from harmful rays, especially since June and July maintain similarly extreme conditions. For detailed information on UV trends throughout the year, visit Reno UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Reno for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Reno 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46891112121110743
Data source: Reno 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.

May Sunshine in Reno

May brings a glorious increase in sunshine to Reno, with a remarkable 355 hours basking in warm rays, setting the stage for a vibrant summer. This month marks a peak in the upward trend of daylight hours that began in the winter; with each month showcasing a steady rise from January's 159 hours to April's 317 hours. As locals and visitors alike revel in May’s abundant sunshine, they can anticipate even longer days ahead, culminating in July with 396 hours. This consistent increase not only highlights the area's favorable climate but also invites a plethora of outdoor activities, making Reno a delightful destination during this sun-drenched period.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Reno: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Reno experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec159h224h276h317h355h388h396h362h322h287h237h199h
Data source: Reno May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Reno During May

As the months progress towards May in Reno, the chances of basking in sunny weather steadily increase, showcasing a remarkable trend in seasonal sunshine. Starting with 38% in January, the likelihood of clear skies climbs to 69% by April, culminating in an impressive 72% in May. This pattern not only heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures but also sets the stage for the peak summer months, where June and August dazzle with 78% and a striking 91% chance of sun, respectively. Overall, May stands as a delightful interlude, promising a radiant spring before the summer sun takes center stage.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Reno

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Reno throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Reno experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec38%57%58%69%72%78%74%92%82%54%55%37%
Data source: Reno May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Reno in May

As spring unfolds in Reno, May brings a delightful extension of daylight, with 14 hours of sunlight illuminating the days. Following the steady increase from 9 hours in January to 13 hours in April, May marks the peak before summer settles in. The consistently bright skies in both May and June provide a vibrant backdrop for outdoor activities, while July maintains this sunlight bounty before the gradual retreat begins in August. As the year progresses, daylight hours gently decline, showcasing a beautiful rhythm of nature that allows residents to embrace the long, sunlit days of late spring and early summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Reno for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Reno throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 43m10h 43m11h 58m13h 16m14h 21m14h 54m14h 36m13h 38m12h 23m11h 6m9h 58m9h 24m
Data source: Reno daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Reno

In May, Reno experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), marking a subtle increase from the previous months. This upward trend in wind speed, which starts from a mere 1.8 m/s in January, highlights a gradual escalation as spring unfolds, peaking in May before tapering off into the summer months. The consistency in wind speed throughout the year—hovering around 5 mph in several months—creates a refreshing atmosphere, pleasantly inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. As the weather warms, these soft winds add to the charm of Reno's scenic landscape, making May a delightful time to relish the city's beauty.

Average May Wind Speed in Reno

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Reno, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.82.12.22.32.4 m/s2.22.12.02.02.01.61.9
Data source: Reno May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Reno Compares to Other Months

The weather in Reno 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 Reno and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly -7°C (19°F) to a warm 32°C (90°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F), making it a much milder month overall. The precipitation in May is relatively light, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in) over about 8 days, contributing to a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, January experiences much colder conditions, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -20°C (-3°F) and a maximum of only 16°C (60°F), averaging around 0°C (33°F). This month also sees significantly more precipitation, with 91 mm (3.6 in) falling over 7 days, and a higher humidity of 85%. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can visit Reno weather in January.

The weather in May is notably warmer than in February, with average temperatures rising from a chilly 1°C (34°F) in February to a more comfortable 13°C (55°F) in May. While February experiences colder minimum temperatures reaching as low as -20°C (-4°F), May offers a much milder minimum of -7°C (19°F). Precipitation is also higher in February, with 87 mm (3.4 in) compared to May's 39 mm (1.5 in), despite both months seeing precipitation over eight days. Additionally, humidity levels are significantly higher in February, averaging 87%, while May enjoys a lower average of 64%. For a closer look at February weather specifically, check out Reno weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May generally enjoys milder temperatures, with averages around 13°C (55°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F), while March remains considerably cooler, with an average of just 3°C (38°F) and maximums only up to 21°C (71°F). Additionally, March experiences more precipitation, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 39 mm (1.5 in) across 8 days. Humidity levels also contrast, with March having a higher average of 84% compared to May's 64%. For more detailed information, you can check Reno weather in March.

May generally offers a wider range of temperatures compared to April, with minimums as low as -7°C (19°F) and highs reaching up to 32°C (90°F), while April's temperatures range from -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F). The average temperature in May is significantly warmer at 13°C (55°F) compared to April's average of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation in May is slightly higher at 39 mm (1.5 in) over 8 days, while April sees a bit less rain at 32 mm (1.3 in) over 6 days. However, April experiences higher humidity levels at 78%, compared to May's 64%. For more details about April weather, you can check Reno weather in April.

May and June present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a warm maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month sees 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 64%. In contrast, June brings warmer temperatures with a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 36°C (98°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). The precipitation drops significantly to just 8 mm (0.3 in) across only 3 days, and humidity decreases to 56%. For more details on June weather, check out Reno weather in June.

The weather in May and July exhibits significant differences, particularly in temperature and humidity. May experiences a wider range of temperatures with a minimum of -7°C (19°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). This variability, combined with relatively higher humidity at 64% and 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, creates a cooler and wetter start to the year. In contrast, July boasts a milder temperature range with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 24°C (75°F), and a maximum of 37°C (99°F). The summer month also enjoys lower humidity at 44% and significantly less rainfall, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 4 days. For more detailed information on July weather, you can visit Reno weather in July.

In comparing the weather between May and August, we see a significant shift in both temperature and humidity levels. May experiences a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum reaching 32°C (90°F), while the average is a comfortable 13°C (55°F). This month also sees a moderate amount of precipitation, recording 39 mm (1.5 in) over 8 days, and higher humidity at 64%.

In contrast, August features milder minimum temperatures at 8°C (47°F) and higher maximums of 37°C (98°F), with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F). It enjoys much less rain, only 11 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days, and significantly lower humidity at 34%. This stark difference highlights August as a drier and hotter month compared to the more variable weather of May. For further details on summer conditions, check out Reno weather in August.

In May, temperatures can swing significantly, with lows reaching -7°C (19°F) and highs climbing to 32°C (90°F), resulting in an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, with rainfall occurring on about 8 days and an average of 39 mm (1.5 inches), along with a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), yielding an average of 18°C (64°F). Notably, September is much drier, receiving only 8 mm (0.3 inches) of rain over just 2 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 41%. For more details, you can check Reno weather in September.

May and October present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures can vary widely, ranging from a chilly -7°C (19°F) at night to a warm 32°C (90°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences about 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, with humidity levels around 64%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F), an average of 10°C (51°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). The month is drier, with only 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation falling over just 2 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 60%. For more detailed information about October weather, you can visit Reno weather in October.

May typically presents a wide temperature range, with minimums around -7°C (19°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F), averaging at a comfortable 13°C (55°F). This month experiences moderate precipitation of 39 mm (1.5 in) over about 8 rainy days, alongside a humidity level of 64%. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, where the minimum can dip to -13°C (9°F) and the average settles at just 5°C (42°F), with a maximum reaching 23°C (73°F). Although precipitation remains the same at 39 mm (1.5 in), it occurs over fewer days—approximately 5 days—with higher humidity at 81%. For more details on what to expect, check out Reno weather in November.

In comparing the weather between May and December, notable differences in temperature and humidity emerge. May experiences a broader temperature range with minimums dropping to -7°C (19°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F), resulting in an average of 13°C (55°F). In contrast, December is significantly cooler, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F) — a much chillier condition that includes minimums of -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of only 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is higher in December at 64 mm (2.5 in), compared to May's 39 mm (1.5 in), and December also has a higher humidity level at 82%, which contributes to a damp, colder atmosphere. For a detailed look at December's weather patterns, you can check Reno weather in December.

Compare Reno's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Reno

As May unfolds in Reno, the weather transitions into a vibrant tapestry of warmth and mildness, contrasting sharply with the chillier months that precede it. This month serves as a beautiful bridge between the cooler spring days and the sweltering summer heat, with maximum temperatures reaching a delightful high while nights remain cool. Precipitation begins to dwindle, with slightly more humid days compared to the arid conditions of winter, yet still showcasing plenty of sunshine. The refreshing shift in weather makes May a perfect time to experience the great outdoors. For a deeper dive into the overall climate patterns, explore Reno Climate.