Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, New York City experiences a vibrant transition into warmer weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F). However, the month also presents some cooler moments, with minimum temperatures dipping to 3°C (37°F). Precipitation is common, averaging 114 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 13 days, and the air is often humid at around 69%, adding to the city's dynamic climate. As spring unfolds, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a mix of sunny days and refreshing rain, making May a month of colorful contrasts in the bustling metropolis.
In May, New York City begins to shake off the chill of winter, showcasing a delightful transition into warmer days. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), the average settles comfortably at 17°C (62°F), signaling a shift towards the vibrant summer months ahead. This month sees a notable rise in warmth compared to the preceding months, with April's averages climbing significantly, highlighting a lessening grip of cold and an increase in outdoor activities. As the parks fill with blooming flowers and the streets buzz with life, May truly heralds the arrival of spring in the heart of the city, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the pleasant weather.
In New York City, May marks a significant uptick in rainfall, with an average precipitation of 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days. This increase follows a series of wetter months, culminating from the spring thaw, where April also recorded substantial rainfall at 112 mm (4.4 in). As the city transitions into summer, May serves as a bridge, heralding the arrival of more humid, rain-soaked days that often precede the intense thunderstorms of June and July. Interestingly, May’s precipitation is slightly higher than April's, suggesting that rain becomes more consistent as gardens bloom and outdoor activities ramp up. With nearly half the month seeing wet weather, May’s showers not only freshen the urban landscape but also pave the way for lush greenery, setting the stage for the vibrant summer ahead.
As spring transitions to summer in New York City, May experiences a refreshing dip in humidity, averaging 69%. This marks a notable decrease from the higher humidity levels of preceding months, such as January's 84% and April's 78%. With the onset of warmer weather, the air becomes more comfortable, mirroring June's similar humidity level. Interestingly, both May and June share this 69% humidity, setting the stage for the drier conditions that follow during the peak summer months of July and August, where humidity levels drop further to 62% and 65%, respectively. This trend highlights a gradual alleviation of moisture in the air as the city revels in the beauty of late spring and the initial warmth of summer.
As May rolls into New York City, residents and visitors alike should prepare for a significant increase in UV exposure, with the UV Index soaring to 10, placing it firmly in the very high category. This trend marks a sharp shift from the cooler months, where January's moderate index of 3 gradually climbed through spring until reaching its peak in May. With a quick burn time of just 15 minutes, taking proper precautions against the sun becomes crucial during this month, especially as the UV Index remains equally high into June. For detailed information on UV levels and safety tips, visit New York City UV Index.
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As May unfolds in New York City, it brings a delightful surge of sunshine with 271 hours of radiant light, marking a significant increase from the previous months. This vibrant month continues the trend of ascending daylight hours that began in March, where longer days set the stage for a bright and cheerful spring. Just as nature bursts into color, the city's scenes are illuminated, inviting residents and visitors alike to indulge in outdoor activities and cultural festivities. Following May, June graces the city with even more sun, reaching a peak of 310 hours, making this jubilant time of year a true celebration of light and warmth. As the seasons progress, it's clear that the sun plays a pivotal role in energizing the city, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone to bask in its glow.
As spring transitions into summer, May in New York City showcases a 42% chance of sunny weather, a slight dip from the sunny disposition often found in March and April. This month mirrors the tendency of April, exhibiting a consistent likelihood of sunshine, though it falls slightly below the average for the early spring months. Overall, it appears that while May may not promise abundant sunshine, it stands in the middle of the spectrum, leading into the otherwise brighter summer months. With a mix of clouds and sun, May offers a glimpse of warmer days ahead, suggesting that while good weather may not always prevail, there's still plenty of opportunity for outdoor enjoyment.
As spring unfolds in New York City, May heralds a delightful peak in daylight, with 14 hours of sun illuminating the city. This increase reflects a steady trend observed since January, when daylight barely reached 9 hours. Moving through the months, the gradual extension becomes particularly noticeable in March and April, where the leap to 11 and 13 hours, respectively, hints at the warmer days ahead. In June, daylight is at its zenith with 15 hours, creating vibrant evenings perfect for enjoying the city’s bustling atmosphere. However, as summer transitions into autumn, a gradual decline begins, reminding us that the cycle of light is ever-changing, with daylight hours slipping back to 11 by October and dwindling to a mere 9 hours by December.
In May, New York City experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph), slightly lower than the previous months of March and April. As spring unfolds, the city's wind patterns reflect a gradual decline from the 3.7 m/s peak observed in March. The trend toward calmer winds continues into early summer, with June showing a further decrease to 2.8 m/s. This subtle shift suggests that while May remains a refreshing month for outdoor activities, the gusty winds characteristic of earlier spring gradually give way to a more serene atmosphere, providing a pleasant backdrop for enjoying the blossoming parks and vibrant streets of the city.
The weather in New York City 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 New York City and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in May and January, the differences are quite striking. May typically sees milder temperatures, with average highs around 17°C (62°F) and peaks reaching up to 31°C (88°F). In contrast, January experiences frigid conditions, with average highs only reaching 1°C (34°F) and lows plunging to -18°C (-1°F). Precipitation is more frequent in May, with 114 mm (4.5 in) spread across about 13 days, while January is drier, receiving 67 mm (2.7 in) over just 7 days. Humidity levels also vary, sitting at 69% in May compared to a higher 84% in January. For those interested in more details, you can explore New York City weather in January.
May and February present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a cool 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm average of 17°C (62°F) during the day, peaking at 31°C (88°F). This month sees about 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain over roughly 13 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, February experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of just 2°C (36°F), but can reach a maximum of 20°C (68°F) on warmer days. Precipitation is slightly lower in February at 102 mm (4.0 in) over about 10 days, though humidity is higher at 82%. For a deeper look, you can check New York City weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, it's clear that May offers milder and warmer temperatures. In March, temperatures can dip as low as -9°C (16°F), while in May, the minimum temperature is much more comfortable at 3°C (37°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum reaching up to 31°C (88°F). Additionally, March experiences lower average temperatures, with an average of just 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in May at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, compared to March's 98 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are also notable, as March has a higher average humidity of 81%, compared to May's 69%. For more details, you can visit New York City weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, it's evident that May brings a significant increase in temperature, with average highs reaching 31°C (88°F) compared to April's average maximum of 27°C (82°F). While May's precipitation is slightly higher at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, April is not far behind with 112 mm (4.4 in) over just one fewer day of rainfall. Furthermore, May's humidity level of 69% is lower than April's 78%, contributing to a more comfortable feel as spring progresses. For more information, you can check New York City weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. May welcomes the arrival of spring with a broad temperature range, featuring a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), while averaging around 17°C (62°F). In contrast, June sees a marked increase in warmth, with minimum temperatures starting at 10°C (50°F) and reaching up to 35°C (94°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). While both months experience precipitation on about 13 days, June has slightly less rainfall at 92 mm (3.6 in) compared to May’s 114 mm (4.5 in). Notably, humidity levels remain consistent at 69% for both months. For more details on June weather specifically in New York City, visit New York City weather in June.
May and July exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (37°F) at night to a comfortable 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average of 17°C (62°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, accumulating to 114 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 13 days, coupled with a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 17°C (62°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 36°C (96°F), averaging 26°C (78°F). Although July receives more total precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in), the humidity is slightly lower at 62%. For more details on July weather, check out New York City weather in July.
In May, the weather is characterized by a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F), resulting in an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). This month experiences a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 114 mm (4.5 inches) over approximately 13 days, along with a humidity level of 69%. Conversely, August sees warmer conditions with minimum temperatures starting at 16°C (61°F) and maximums climbing to 34°C (93°F), leading to a higher average of 25°C (76°F). Though August has slightly more precipitation at 127 mm (5.0 inches) over 14 days, the humidity is lower at 65%. For more details about August weather, check out New York City weather in August.
May and September offer distinct weather experiences. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average of 17°C (62°F). The month sees about 114 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall over 13 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 69%. In contrast, September presents milder evenings with a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and typically warms up to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging at 21°C (70°F). With only 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain over 9 days and a slight decrease in humidity to 68%, September tends to be drier and more comfortable. For more details on September's climate, check out New York City weather in September.
When comparing the weather in May and October, we see some interesting similarities and differences. May features average temperatures ranging from a refreshing 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average of 17°C (62°F). In contrast, October offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 33°C (91°F). Both months experience significant rainfall, with May receiving 114 mm (4.5 inches) over approximately 13 days, while October has a bit more precipitation at 128 mm (5.0 inches) but over fewer days, just 10. Additionally, October tends to have higher humidity levels at 74%, compared to May's 69%. For more detailed information about October weather, you can check New York City weather in October.
May and November present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). However, it also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 inches) over approximately 13 days, along with a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, November features much colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -9°C (17°F) and daytime highs reaching 24°C (75°F), averaging 8°C (47°F). Although it is drier than May, November still accumulates 83 mm (3.3 inches) of precipitation over about 8 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 82%. For a more detailed look at November weather conditions, you can check out New York City weather in November.
May and December showcase strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 3°C (37°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average of 17°C (62°F). The month sees about 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation across 13 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, December brings much cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -11°C (13°F) and peaking at 18°C (64°F), averaging only 4°C (39°F). This month experiences slightly less rainfall, measuring 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, but features higher humidity at 80%. For a closer look at winter conditions, check out New York City weather in December.
As the vibrant days of May unfold in New York City, the weather offers a delightful contrast to the earlier chill of spring. With average temperatures gradually rising, residents and visitors alike can bask in the warmth while enjoying the blossoming landscape. However, May also brings a fair share of precipitation, with about 13 rainy days to consider, contributing to a humidity level that hovers around 69%. This unique combination makes May a month where sunshine and showers coexist, paving the way for the hot summer months ahead. For more insights into how May fits into the overall climate picture, check out New York City Climate.