May Weather in Queens, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Queens, United States, offers a vibrant transition into warmer days, with temperatures soaring to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F). While the weather encourages outdoor activities, nature often reminds us of its unpredictability, as the region experiences about 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days. With an average humidity level of 69%, the month provides a lush backdrop for the blooming flora, making it an exciting time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the dynamic and refreshed atmosphere that spring brings to this bustling borough.

May Temperature in Queens

In May, temperatures in Queens, United States, begin to warm significantly, marking a delightful transition into spring. The month starts with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and peaks with a comfortable 30°C (86°F), creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. With an average temperature of 16°C (61°F), May offers a pleasant balance, contrasting sharply with the colder winter months. This trend highlights a steady increase in warmth, as the region shifts from the lingering chill of earlier months like January, where the average is only 1°C (35°F), to the lush warmth that heralds the approach of summer. The gradual climb in temperature throughout the spring months lays the groundwork for the blazing heat of summer, with June temperatures reaching up to 34°C (93°F). Overall, May serves as a beautiful prelude, showcasing Queens' vibrant seasonal shift and inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Queens, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec343641516171777670614739
Data source: Temperature data for Queens generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Queens

In Queens, United States, May marks a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with an average rainfall of 117 mm (4.6 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. This monthly total is slightly higher than April’s 115 mm and underscores a consistent trend of increasing precipitation as spring transitions into summer. With 13 rainy days, May showcases a vibrant landscape nourished by frequent showers, contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes this time of year. This pattern of increased rainfall not only supports local flora but sets the stage for the impending summer months, which often bring even heavier downpours, as evidenced by July’s 142 mm. The steady rise in both precipitation amounts and the number of rainy days highlights May as a pivotal month in Queens' seasonal climate cycle.

May Precipitation Trends in Queens

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Queens, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7210698115117891421249113090117
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Queens

As spring progresses into May, Queens experiences a noticeable decline in humidity, dipping to 69% from the much higher levels of the preceding months. This month marks a transition, as humidity levels begin to normalize compared to the winter's lingering dampness, which hovers around 84% in January. Following May, the humidity remains steady at 69% in June, before descending further to a more comfortable 62% in July. This gradual decrease not only brings relief from the earlier mugginess but also sets the stage for the warmer summer months, where humidity levels gently fluctuate through the year, showcasing a vibrant rhythm in the climate tapestry of Queens.

May Average Humidity in Queens

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Queens, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%82%81%78%70%69%62%65%68%74%82%80%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Queens

As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, May in Queens ushers in intensely sunny weather, with a UV Index of 10 that falls into the very high exposure category. This marks a significant jump from the previous months, where the index consistently increased from a moderate 3 in January to a high 8 in April. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, residents and visitors should take special care to protect their skin during this peak UV period. Following May, the UV Index maintains this intense level through June and July, highlighting a pattern of heightened sun exposure throughout the summer months. Be sure to check regularly for updates on the UV Index by visiting Queens UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Queens for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Queens 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356810101098642
Data source: Queens 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 Queens

As May arrives in Queens, it brings a delightful surge of sunshine with 277 hours of daylight—a significant increase from earlier months. Following a gradual ascent from 149 hours in January to 251 hours in March, the warmth of spring is palpable. This upward trend peaks in the summer, with July and August basking in a generous 341 and 314 hours, respectively. However, as the year progresses into fall, the sun starts to retreat, with hours gradually decreasing to 220 in October and 207 in November. Overall, May serves as a vibrant reminder of nature's rhythm, where longer days usher in the promise of summer right around the corner, making it a prime time for outdoor activities and city adventures.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Queens: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Queens 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec149h178h251h240h277h312h341h314h274h220h207h174h
Data source: Queens May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Queens During May

As we transition into May in Queens, the chances of basking in sunny weather dip to 42%, a modest but not uncommon occurrence for this time of year. This decline follows a relatively brighter March at 57%, and while April offers a slight increase to 46%, the prospects for sunny days are noticeably lower compared to the earlier spring months. Looking ahead, the pattern suggests a fluctuating trend, with June dropping further to 39%, a continuation of the overall trend of lower sunshine probabilities as the summer approaches. While May may not guarantee countless sunny afternoons, it still offers a fair chance to enjoy pleasant weather before the humidity of the summer months settles in.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Queens

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Queens 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 Queens experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50%31%57%46%42%39%43%30%46%39%55%31%
Data source: Queens May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Queens in May

As spring gracefully transitions into summer, May in Queens, United States, shines with an average of 14 hours of daylight, marking a significant increase from the 13 hours in April. This surge is part of a broader trend observed throughout the year, where daylight duration typically peaks in June, offering 15 hours of sunlight. The gradual lengthening of days from 9 hours in January to a vibrant 14 hours in May not only brightens the landscape but also invigorates outdoor activities and community events. As temperatures rise and nature flourishes, May sets the perfect stage for enjoying longer days and basking in the warmth of the sun. Following this exuberant month, daylight will gently taper off in the summer's later weeks.

Average Daylight Hours in Queens for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Queens throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 37m10h 39m11h 58m13h 19m14h 27m15h 1m14h 43m13h 42m12h 24m11h 4m9h 53m9h 17m
Data source: Queens daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Queens

In May, Queens experiences a subtle shift in wind dynamics, with an average speed of 3.8 m/s (9 mph). This marks a slight decrease from the previous months, notably dropping from 4.4 m/s in March and 4.2 m/s in February. As the region transitions into late spring, the winds begin to mellow, reflecting a broader trend where average wind speeds gradually decline through the summer months. This gentle breeze in May, however, still carries the invigorating essence of spring, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities. The fluctuation in winds from earlier months signals an approaching pattern, hinting at the calmer, warmer days ahead.

Average May Wind Speed in Queens

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Queens, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.34.24.43.93.8 m/s3.43.03.03.73.93.83.6
Data source: Queens May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Queens Compares to Other Months

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

In May, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (37°F) at night to a warm 30°C (86°F) during the day, with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity levels at 69% and sees precipitation over 13 days, totaling 117 mm (4.6 inches). In contrast, January presents a starkly different climate, with minimum temperatures plunging to -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging just 1°C (35°F). While January has lower total precipitation at 72 mm (2.8 inches) over 8 days, the humidity is notably higher at 84%. For more detailed insights on January weather, you can visit Queens weather in January.

May and February present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). The month sees moderate precipitation of 117 mm (4.6 in) spread over approximately 13 days, with a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, February experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging just 2°C (37°F). February's precipitation is slightly lower at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 82%. For more insights into February weather, you can visit Queens weather in February.

The weather in May is distinctly milder and more variable compared to March. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), May offers an average temperature of 16°C (61°F), which is significantly warmer than March's minimum of -9°C (17°F) and average of 5°C (42°F). While May experiences more precipitation overall, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 rainy days, March sees slightly less at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days. Additionally, May's humidity level of 69% is lower than March's 81%, contributing to a different overall feel in the air during these months. For a more detailed look at March weather in Queens, check Queens weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, it is evident that May generally offers warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while April sees lower temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). The maximum temperatures rise significantly in May to 30°C (86°F), compared to April's peak of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with May accumulating 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days and April receiving 115 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days. However, humidity is slightly lower in May at 69%, compared to 78% in April. For more details on April's weather, you can visit Queens weather in April.

May weather features a more varied temperature range, with minimums dipping as low as 2°C (37°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). The average temperature in May is around 16°C (61°F), accompanied by considerable precipitation of 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days. On the other hand, June experiences a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 10°C (50°F) and maximums soaring to 34°C (93°F), leading to a higher average of 22°C (71°F). June is drier too, with precipitation measuring 89 mm (3.5 in) over just 11 days. Interestingly, both months share identical humidity levels of 69%. For more details on the weather in June, visit Queens weather in June.

In comparing the weather of May and July, May typically has cooler temperatures with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). The month sees quite a bit of rainfall, averaging 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 13 days, and maintains a higher humidity level of 69%. In contrast, July experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F), an average of 25°C (78°F), and maximums soaring up to 36°C (96°F). Although July receives more precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 12 days, it has a lower humidity of 62%. This shift reflects not only an increase in warmth but also a slight reduction in humidity levels. For more details on the specific weather patterns, you can check Queens weather in July.

May and August present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). This month also experiences notable precipitation with 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days and a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging at 24°C (76°F). Precipitation in August is slightly higher at 124 mm (4.9 in), also over 13 days, but the humidity decreases to 65%. For a more detailed look at August weather, check out Queens weather in August.

In comparing the weather of May and September, May tends to have cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while September sees milder conditions, starting with a minimum of 10°C (49°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). Both months experience a range of temperatures, but September can reach up to 32°C (91°F) compared to May's maximum of 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in September, with 91 mm (3.6 in) over 10 days, compared to May's 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with May at 69% and September slightly lower at 68%. For more details, check out Queens weather in September.

May and October in Queens exhibit some similarities but also distinct differences in weather. Both months have an average temperature of 16°C (61°F), but October tends to have a slightly warmer maximum temperature of 32°C (91°F) compared to May’s 30°C (86°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with October receiving 130 mm (5.1 in) over 11 days and May seeing 117 mm (4.6 in) across 13 days. Humidity is also slightly higher in October at 74%, compared to 69% in May. For more details about October weather, you can visit Queens weather in October.

May and November exhibit strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a balmy maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F), making it a much warmer month. Conversely, November brings cooler conditions with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging at 8°C (47°F). While May experiences more rainfall at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, November sees less precipitation at 90 mm (3.5 in) across 9 days, but a higher humidity level of 82% compared to May's 69%. For more details, check out Queens weather in November.

In May, the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 2°C (37°F) to a warm 30°C (86°F), while the average hovers around 16°C (61°F). The month sees a fair amount of rainfall, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 13 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, December experiences a more frigid climate, with temperatures ranging from a low of -10°C (13°F) to a high of 17°C (64°F), resulting in a much cooler average of 4°C (39°F). Despite similar precipitation levels of 117 mm (4.6 in), rainfall occurs on fewer days, about 10 in total, and humidity rises to 80%. For more details on December weather, you can check Queens weather in December.

Compare Queens's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Queens

As May arrives in Queens, it brings a notable shift in weather that sets the stage for warmer days ahead. With average temperatures rising, the city basks in a comfortable warmth, a stark contrast to the chill of earlier months. However, this period also ushers in a moderate amount of rainfall, with precipitation occurring on several days throughout the month, contributing to the region's lush spring scenery. The increased humidity level enhances the feeling of warmth, allowing residents and visitors alike to fully embrace the outdoor activities that this vibrant month has to offer. As the weather transforms, May stands out as a dynamic time in Queens, bridging the gap between the coolness of spring and the heat of summer. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns in this area, check more details at Queens Climate.