Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, Portsmouth, United States experiences a dynamic mix of weather. With maximum temperatures peaking at 27°C (82°F) and a comfortable average of 13°C (55°F), this month showcases the transition into warmer days. However, the minimum temperature can drop to 2°C (37°F), reminding residents of the lingering chill. Rainfall adds to the atmosphere, with 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread across 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 72%. This variability makes May a month of contrast, blending refreshing breezes with the chance of spring showers.
As spring turns into summer in Portsmouth, May brings a welcomed warmth that marks a significant shift from the cold winter months. With minimum temperatures averaging around 2°C (37°F) and averages climbing to a comfortable 13°C (55°F), residents can finally anticipate milder days. The maximum temperatures can reach a pleasant 27°C (82°F), presenting perfect conditions for outdoor activities. This progressive rise in temperatures not only signifies the end of frosty nights but also sets the stage for the summer's heat, showcasing the region's delightful transition towards brighter, sunnier days.
In May, Portsmouth experiences a moderate precipitation amount of 83 mm (3.3 in), which aligns with the city’s overall trend of fluctuating rainfall as the seasons transition. This month typically sees around 11 days of rainfall, contributing to a vibrant spring landscape. While May’s rainfall is less than the heavier downpours of April, it's indicative of the consistent moisture that begins to taper off into summer. The slightly lower precipitation than its predecessor not only allows for more sunny days but also sets the stage for the warmer, drier months ahead, creating a perfect balance for both blooming flora and outdoor activities.
In May, Portsmouth experiences a refreshing drop in humidity to 72%, signaling the transition into warmer months. This decrease continues the trend set from previous months, where humidity levels have been steadily declining since January's high of 86%. As spring unfolds, the air becomes noticeably crisper, with May marking a pivotal point just before the summer months, which register similar humidity levels of 72% in June and drop further to 67% in July. This gradual decrease not only enhances the comfort level for outdoor activities but also highlights Portsmouth's shift towards sunnier, drier days as the season progresses.
As May rolls into Portsmouth, the UV Index notably spikes to 9, placing it in the very high exposure category and significantly reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. This sharp increase from April’s 7 emphasizes the importance of taking sun safety precautions. Following a trend of rising UV values from winter's low levels, May marks a clear transition into the sunnier months, which continue to see similarly high readings in June and July. With the potential for sunburn escalating, it's crucial to stay informed and protect your skin during outdoor activities. For more details, visit the Portsmouth UV Index.
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As May rolls into Portsmouth, the city basks in 295 hours of glorious sunshine, marking a vibrant high point in the spring season. This cheerful month reflects a noticeable upward trend from the earlier months, with a significant increase from 245 hours in April. The sunshine continues to grow, peaking in the summer months, notably in July and August, where the hours soar to 335 and 337 respectively. This delightful progression from May into the summer ensures that Portsmouth residents and visitors alike can enjoy increasingly brighter days, paving the way for outdoor adventures and vibrant community events. As autumn approaches, there's a gentle decline in illumination, but May certainly stands as a brilliant highlight in the annual cycle of sunshine.
In Portsmouth, the likelihood of sunny weather in May shows a modest 38% chance, aligning closely with the cooler months of April and June, which both hover around the same percentage. Notably, March stands out with a more favorable 61% probability, hinting at the arrival of spring, while the summer months of July and August dip down to a mere 32%. Additionally, as the seasons shift toward fall, September sees a promising increase to 44%, suggesting that sunny days aren't completely behind us. This trend highlights a fluctuating pattern throughout the year, with May serving as a transitional month where the sunshine is more of a hopeful expectation than a guarantee.
As spring blossoms into summer in Portsmouth, the increasing daylight duration offers a delightful transformation. Beginning in May, residents enjoy 14 hours of daylight, marking a significant leap from the 13 hours in April. This upward trend continues into June, where daylight peaks at 15 hours, allowing for longer evenings and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes, the daylight gradually retreats, dropping back to 14 hours in July and subsequently decreasing to 12 hours by September. The rhythm of light and darkness throughout the year not only shapes daily life but also enhances the beauty of seasonal changes in this charming coastal city.
In May, Portsmouth experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), marking a slight decline from the previous months. As spring vibrantly unfolds, overall wind speeds begin to taper off compared to the higher gusts of March. This trend of diminishing wind continues into June, where a further decrease to 4.1 m/s (9 mph) is noted. Interestingly, the months leading up to summer consistently showcase a gradual reduction in wind intensity, with July and August offering the calmest breezes of the year. While May's winds are softer than those in early spring, they still provide a refreshing touch, perfect for enjoying the blossoming outdoor spaces of this charming coastal city.
The weather in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (55°F), with highs reaching up to 27°C (82°F). This month typically features about 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 11 rainy days, accompanied by a humidity level of 72%.
In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and only averaging around -1°C (30°F). Although the maximum temperature can reach 17°C (64°F), the overall conditions are harsh, with 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over just 8 days. The higher humidity at 86% creates a distinct chill in the air. For a deeper look at the January weather in Portsmouth, visit Portsmouth weather in January.
In comparing the weather between May and February, it's clear that these months present contrasting climates. May experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at a comfortable 27°C (82°F). In contrast, February is much colder, featuring a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average temperature around 0°C (32°F), with a maximum of 17°C (64°F). While February sees slightly more precipitation at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 11 days, May's rainfall is less, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over the same number of days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in February at 84%, compared to 72% in May. For more detailed insights, you can check out Portsmouth weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, one can see a significant transition as spring progresses into early summer. May boasts a milder temperature range, with averages around 13°C (55°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (82°F), while March experiences much cooler conditions, with averages only at 2°C (36°F) and maximums peaking at 17°C (63°F). Precipitation patterns also differ; May receives about 83 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days, compared to March's 94 mm (3.7 in) spread over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 72%, while March tends to be a bit more humid at 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Portsmouth weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, it's clear that May experiences milder temperatures overall. The minimum temperature in May is notably higher at 2°C (37°F) compared to April's chilly -2°C (29°F), while the average temperature rises to 13°C (55°F) from April's 8°C (46°F). Though May sees a maximum temperature reaching 27°C (82°F), April can peak at 24°C (76°F). However, April records higher precipitation levels, with 143 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days, compared to May's 83 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days. Additionally, the humidity slightly decreases from April's 80% to May's 72%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, visit Portsmouth weather in April.
May and June showcase a noticeable shift in weather patterns as spring transitions into summer. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 11 days, maintaining a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, June offers a warmer climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 8°C (47°F) and maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 88 mm (3.5 in) over 10 days, while humidity remains steady at 72%. For more details on June's climate, check out Portsmouth weather in June.
May and July present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (37°F) to a mild 27°C (82°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). This month also sees about 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 72%. In contrast, July boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum reaching 31°C (88°F), averaging 22°C (71°F). While it experiences slightly more precipitation at 123 mm (4.8 in) over 12 days, the humidity decreases to 67%. For more details on July weather specifics, you can visit Portsmouth weather in July.
In May, the weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), reaching up to 27°C (82°F) on warmer days. This month also tends to be quite wet, with 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over about 11 days and a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, August experiences milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and averaging around 22°C (71°F), peaking at a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation in August is slightly less, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over 9 days, and the humidity decreases to 66%. For more details on the weather during this month, check out Portsmouth weather in August.
May and September showcase contrasting weather patterns, each with its own unique charm. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (37°F) to a warm 27°C (82°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F), as the month blooms into spring. This period sees considerable rainfall, with about 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 72%. In comparison, September offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging between 7°C (46°F) and 30°C (86°F), boasting an average of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences slightly less rainfall at 78 mm (3.1 in) over just 8 days, and the humidity is marginally lower at 71%. For those interested in the typical weather conditions of this month, you can explore more about Portsmouth weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns, each with their own characteristics. In May, temperatures can range from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average of around 13°C (55°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation of about 83 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days and a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, October sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), while maintaining a similar average of 13°C (56°F). However, this month is wetter, receiving approximately 142 mm (5.6 in) of rainfall over the same number of days, and with increased humidity at 78%. For a closer look at October’s weather in Portsmouth, visit Portsmouth weather in October.
May and November exhibit contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a mild 2°C (37°F) at night to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (82°F) during the day, accompanied by an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 83 mm (3.3 in) of rainfall over 11 days, with humidity levels around 72%. In contrast, November experiences colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -12°C (11°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while daytime highs reach up to 20°C (69°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 108 mm (4.3 in), also over 11 days, and humidity rises to 84%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Portsmouth weather in November.
In May, the weather in Portsmouth is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days and boasts a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, December brings much colder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and peaking at 15°C (59°F), averaging just 1°C (34°F). December is also wetter, with 133 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation occurring over around 10 days and a higher humidity of 81%. For more detailed information, you can check Portsmouth weather in December.
As May unfolds in Portsmouth, the drastic shift in weather signals the true arrival of spring. With temperatures finally warming up, residents can expect delightful highs that contrast sharply with the chilly lows of earlier months. While May brings an average temperature hovering around a comfortable 13°C, the occasional peak at 27°C reminds us of summer’s impending embrace. Coupled with moderate humidity levels and a sprinkle of rain over 11 days, the month is both refreshing and lively. This beautiful transition makes May a perfect time to enjoy the blossoming scenery and engage in outdoor activities. For a more in-depth look at the weather patterns, visit Portsmouth Climate.