Last updated: February 24, 2025
Experience the dynamic weather of Manhattan in May! This month showcases a maximum temperature reaching 31°C (88°F), balanced by a comfortable average of 17°C (62°F), and occasional dips to a minimum of 3°C (37°F). While the days increasingly warm up, rainfall adds a refreshing touch, with total precipitation accumulating to 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days. The humidity level hovers around 69%, creating a pleasantly balmy atmosphere perfect for springtime activities in the vibrant cityscape. Whether you're exploring the parks or enjoying outdoor events, May in Manhattan promises a blend of warmth and refreshing showers.
In May, Manhattan bursts into life with the arrival of warmer temperatures, marking a significant transition from the lingering chill of spring. The average temperature climbs to a comfortable 17°C (62°F), with daytime highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F), inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities and vibrant city life. The month starts with a mild minimum of 3°C (37°F), gradually warming as the days progress. This upward trend establishes May as a delightful prelude to the summer months, where the city radiates warmth and energy, showcasing the charm and excitement of one of the world's most dynamic urban landscapes. The transition from the cool early months to May's sunny embrace sets the stage for the hot summer ahead.
In May, Manhattan experiences a notable peak in precipitation, with 114 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall spread across an average of 13 days. This marks an increase from the preceding months, reflecting the transition into the wetter late spring season. The consistent rise in precipitation since January's 67 mm (2.7 in) indicates a trend of gradually intensifying spring showers, with April also contributing a significant 112 mm (4.4 in). As the city blossoms into summer, May’s rainfall not only nourishes the vibrant flora but also signals the onset of the more humid and tumultuous weather patterns that characterize the upcoming months. The increase in both totals and days of precipitation illustrates a shift towards a more dynamic climate, setting the stage for June’s anticipated showers.
As spring gracefully transitions into summer, May in Manhattan brings a welcome drop in humidity, settling at 69%, a notable decrease from the higher levels of earlier months. This shift signifies a gradual relief from the chilly winter months of January and February, which boast humidity levels of 84% and 82% respectively. By April, the air feels increasingly refreshing at 78%, paving the way for the more comfortable May climate. Interestingly, this period of moderate humidity continues into June, where levels remain at the same 69%. However, as summer heats up, we see a trend of declining humidity in the following months, with July reaching its lowest at 62%. As the year progresses, humidity begins to rise again during late summer and fall, reflecting the dynamic weather patterns that characterize Manhattan throughout the year.
As the month of May unfolds in Manhattan, residents and visitors should be prepared for a significant increase in UV exposure, with an impressive UV Index of 10, categorized as very high. This marks a stark contrast from earlier months; for instance, January's moderate index of 3 allowed for 30 minutes of burn time, while April's rise to 8 already reduced safe exposure to just 15 minutes. With May maintaining this intensity, just like June, caution is essential—ensuring to protect your skin during those sunny outings. The trend indicates a steady escalation in UV levels as spring transitions into summer, urging everyone to stay informed and proactive. For detailed guidance on UV levels year-round, check out Manhattan UV Index.
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May ushers in a delightful surge of sunshine in Manhattan, with an impressive 271 hours of bright daylight, marking a significant increase from previous months. After a gradual climb from 148 hours in January to 238 hours in April, May transitions into the sun-drenched warmth that sets the stage for summer. This trend continues into June and July, where daylight peaks at 310 and 339 hours, respectively. Interestingly, while May enjoys a vibrant bloom of sunshine, it also heralds the upcoming shifts in weather, as the hours gradually taper off in the fall months, reminding us of the seasonal cycle. All in all, May stands as a radiant highlight in the Manhattan calendar, a perfect blend of warmth and brightness.
As we transition into May in Manhattan, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather stands at 42%, which shows a modest decrease from April's 45%. This slight dip can be observed in a broader context of the annual weather pattern, where the chance of sun fluctuates throughout the year. Notably, March boasts the highest likelihood of sunshine at 57%, reflecting the earlier emergence of spring. However, May's percentage is still an improvement over the summer months, particularly in August, which hits a low of 29%. Overall, while May's sunshine chances may not be the best, they still anchor a season that gradually moves towards brighter days ahead.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Manhattan offers an invigorating boost in daylight, with the sun gracing the city for 14 hours each day. This marks a delightful increase from April’s 13 hours, highlighting the lengthening days as we approach the summer solstice in June, when daylight peaks at 15 hours. The upward trend from a mere 9 hours in January to 14 hours in May reveals a gradual awakening after winter’s hibernation, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor more time outdoors. As the month progresses, the longer evenings create the perfect backdrop for vibrant rooftop gatherings and relaxed strolls through the city's iconic parks, embodying the spirit of renewal that May brings.
As May settles into Manhattan, the average wind speed gently dips to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), creating a slightly calmer atmosphere compared to the breezy spring months that precede it. This decrease in wind is part of a noticeable trend as we transition from the brisk winds of winter and early spring, where speeds hover around 3.5-3.7 m/s (8 mph). As the city gears up for the summer, wind speeds continue to diminish, reaching their lowest in July and August, when they average around 2.5-2.6 m/s (6 mph). This gradual shift from the stronger gusts of earlier months sets the stage for warmer days ahead, inviting New Yorkers to enjoy the outdoors with a gentle, refreshing breeze.
The weather in Manhattan 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 Manhattan and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather in May and January, the differences are striking. May enjoys a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C to a maximum of 31°C, averaging around 17°C. It experiences a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 114 mm over 13 days, with humidity levels at 69%. In contrast, January is characterized by its cold temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C and a maximum of 18°C, averaging just 1°C. Precipitation in January is lower at 67 mm, occurring over 7 days, but the humidity is notably higher at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Manhattan weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, significant differences emerge. May features a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). In contrast, February is considerably colder, with temperatures experiencing a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and averaging just 2°C (36°F), peaking at 20°C (68°F). While May sees about 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days and a humidity level of 69%, February has slightly less precipitation at 102 mm (4.0 in) across 10 days, but higher humidity at 82%. For more details on February's weather, you can check Manhattan weather in February.
In comparing the weather in March and May, it's clear that May offers a much warmer climate. The average temperature in May reaches 17°C (62°F), with maximums soaring up to 31°C (88°F), while March experiences a much cooler average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Additionally, May sees more precipitation overall, with 114 mm (4.5 in) falling across 13 days, compared to March's 98 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days. However, March has slightly higher humidity at 81%, compared to May’s 69%. For more details about the climate in March, you can check Manhattan weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, it’s evident that May experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums of 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F), making the average temperature significantly warmer at 17°C (62°F). In contrast, April starts cooler with minimums dropping to -1°C (31°F) and average temperatures around 11°C (52°F). Although both months receive similar amounts of precipitation—114 mm (4.5 in) in May compared to 112 mm (4.4 in) in April—April tends to have slightly higher humidity levels at 78%, whereas May sees a reduction in humidity to 69%. For more details about April weather, you can visit Manhattan weather in April.
May typically experiences a broader range of temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). In contrast, June sees a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 35°C (94°F), and an average of 22°C (72°F). While May has higher precipitation at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, June has slightly less at 92 mm (3.6 in), maintaining the same number of rainy days. Both months share an identical humidity level of 69%. For more specific insights about June's weather in Manhattan, you can visit Manhattan weather in June.
May and July showcase a notable contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures fluctuate from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). The month experiences a relatively high level of precipitation, with 114 mm (4.5 in) falling over 13 days and humidity levels reaching 69%. In contrast, July offers warmer conditions with a minimum temperature of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum of 36°C (96°F), leading to an average of 26°C (78°F). While July sees increased precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in) over the same number of days, the humidity is slightly lower at 62%. For a more detailed look at July’s weather, refer to Manhattan weather in July.
Comparing the weather in May and August reveals distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. May sees a wider temperature range, with minimums of 3°C (37°F) rising to maximums of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). In contrast, August is generally warmer, with minimums of 16°C (61°F) and maximums reaching 34°C (93°F), averaging 25°C (76°F). While May experiences 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over 13 days, August has slightly higher precipitation at 127 mm (5.0 in) across 14 days. Notably, humidity levels in May are at 69%, which is slightly higher than August's 65%. For more detailed insights, visit Manhattan weather in August.
May and September present contrasting yet pleasantly moderate weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, and the humidity hovers around 69%. In comparison, September offers a slightly warmer experience, with minimum temperatures starting at 9°C (49°F), peaking at 33°C (92°F), and an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). Rainfall is less frequent, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over just 9 days, accompanied by a similar humidity of 68%. For more details on September's climate, check Manhattan weather in September.
May and October present contrasting yet mild weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). The month sees around 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, and the humidity sits at 69%. In contrast, October offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), leading to an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). However, it experiences a bit more rain, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) across 10 days, along with a higher humidity level of 74%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this month, check out Manhattan weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C to a maximum of 31°C, with an average of 17°C, creating a generally mild and pleasant atmosphere. However, it also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 114 mm over 13 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, November is cooler, with temperatures dipping from a minimum of -9°C to a maximum of 24°C, averaging 8°C. Although precipitation is lower at 83 mm over just 8 days, the humidity is higher at 82%, giving the month a more brisk character. For more details on November weather, you can check Manhattan weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F), offering a mild and often warm environment. The month sees about 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over 13 days, while humidity sits at 69%. In contrast, December experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging just 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, but humidity rises to 80%. For a closer look at the frosty climate, check out Manhattan weather in December.
As spring blossoms fully in May, Manhattan experiences a delightful shift in weather that sets it apart from the chill of earlier months. The temperature begins to warm considerably, often reaching comfortable highs, while evenings still hint at the cooler air of early spring. With an average temperature hovering around a mild 17°C (62°F), residents can enjoy outdoor activities amid bursts of sunshine. However, May is not without its rainy days, accumulating over a few wet spells that add up to significant precipitation, often leaving the air humidity level at a notable 69%. This blend of warmth and moisture creates a lush environment, distinctly marking May as a transitional month on the bustling island. For more comprehensive insights into seasonal changes, visit Manhattan Climate.