Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Shelter Island, United States, brings mild temperatures and a touch of moisture as spring unfolds. With maximums reaching 20°C (69°F) and averages around 12°C (54°F), the weather invites outdoor exploration. However, be prepared for the possibility of rain; this month experiences precipitation on 13 days, accumulating to a total of 129 mm (5.1 in). The humidity hovers around 75%, adding a refreshing, albeit damp, ambiance to the island's scenery. Whether you're basking in the daytime warmth or enjoying cozy evenings, May offers a charming blend of temperate weather and lush landscapes.
As spring takes root in Shelter Island, May welcomes a gentle rise in temperatures, reflecting the transition into warmer months. With a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F), residents begin to shed their winter layers. The maximum temperature peaks at a comfortable 20°C (69°F), inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace outdoor activities. Compared to the previous months, May showcases a significant increase from the crispness of April, marking a clear trend towards milder and more enjoyable weather. This upward swing in temperatures sets the stage for the balmy days of summer ahead, making May a delightful time to explore the natural beauty of this charming locale.
In Shelter Island, May brings a notable shift in precipitation patterns, recording 129 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall over 13 days. This marks a slight decrease from the wetter month of April, which saw 137 mm (5.4 in). However, May remains one of the more humid months of the year, falling just short of the seasonal peak. As spring progresses, the consistent rainfall plays a crucial role in nourishing the landscape, paving the way for lush summer growth ahead. The transition to June typically introduces a drier trend, with precipitation tapering off to 72 mm (2.9 in), highlighting the seasonal variability that characterizes Shelter Island's climate.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Shelter Island, United States, brings a refreshing change in humidity, dipping to a comfortable 75%. This marks a notable decline from the previous months, as humidity levels gradually decreased from 84% in January and February, down to 79% in April. The reduced humidity in May not only enhances the pleasantness of the outdoors but also sets the stage for a typically enjoyable summer ahead. Following May, humidity slightly rises again in June, hinting at a return to typical coastal conditions. Overall, this month serves as a gentle reminder of the shifting seasons, providing a delightful balance for residents and visitors alike.
As we transition into May on Shelter Island, the UV Index rises to 9, categorizing it as very high and shortening burn times to a mere 15 minutes. This pattern reflects a consistent upward trend in UV exposure as spring gives way to early summer, with April already reaching a high index of 8. Following May, June and July are expected to peak at 10, indicating the need for increased sun protection as the warmer months approach. As the UV levels fluctuate from moderate in winter to very high in summer, it's essential to stay informed and take precautions to safeguard your skin. For more details on UV exposure in this region, check out Shelter Island UV Index.
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As the warm embrace of May envelops Shelter Island, the sunshine begins to shine the brightest with 291 hours of radiant daylight—a delightful increase from the months prior. This upward trend reflects a gradual awakening from the winter chill, as January's modest 153 hours gives way to the blossoming vibrancy of spring. The steady growth continues through April and into May, signaling not just a rise in sunlight, but also the promise of outdoor activities and the blossoming of nature. Following this peak, June and July will welcome even more sunshine, reinforcing the island's reputation as a summer paradise. With the sunshine gradually receding post-summer, every sun-drenched day in May becomes a cherished moment in the cycle of seasons, inviting residents and visitors alike to soak in the warmth before the sunny days begin to wane.
In Shelter Island, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 45%, reflecting a trend of fluctuating sunshine probabilities throughout the year. January kicks off with a moderate 49%, while March sees a notable spike to 59%, suggesting that early spring begins to shatter winter’s overcast. As April rolls in, the chances dip back to 49%, paving the way for May's slight decrease. Interestingly, as we progress into the summer months, the chances hold steady at 45% in July, before declining further in August. This pattern showcases a seasonal rhythm, where sunny days in May are often balanced by the cooler clouds of early spring and the humid embrace of summer, making it a month that balances potential sunshine with unpredictable weather.
As the year unfolds on Shelter Island, daylight duration experiences a vibrant transformation. Starting with 9 hours of sunlight in January, the days gradually lengthen, reaching a delightful 14 hours by May. This steady increase is a prelude to the peak daylight of 15 hours in June, marking the height of summer. As the sun begins its retreat, the days shorten to 14 hours in July and gradually taper off to 9 hours by December. Throughout this journey, May stands out as a significant milestone, showcasing the transition from the cozy embrace of winter to the brilliant vitality of summer.
In May, Shelter Island experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 6.0 m/s (14 mph), marking a notable decline from the preceding months where gusts were more robust. This aligns with a broader trend observed as spring gives way to summer, where winds consistently diminish, reaching their lowest annual speeds in July and August. Interestingly, after May, wind speeds gradually recover as autumn approaches, showcasing a dynamic shift throughout the year. This rhythmic ebb and flow of the wind not only shapes the island's climate but also influences the outdoor activities cherished by locals and visitors alike.
The weather in Shelter Island 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 Shelter Island and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather in May and January, it’s clear that May offers a much milder climate. With average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), May’s warmest days encourage outdoor activities. In contrast, January is significantly colder, featuring temperatures as low as -13°C (8°F) and averaging only 2°C (37°F). January also experiences less precipitation, with 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days compared to May’s 129 mm (5.1 in) spread over 13 days. Additionally, the humidity is slightly lower in May at 75% compared to January's 84%, making May feel less damp overall. For a detailed look at January weather specifics, you can visit Shelter Island weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge. May experiences milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This contrasts sharply with February, where temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and only reach a maximum of 12°C (53°F), resulting in a colder average of 3°C (37°F). Precipitation levels in May are slightly higher at 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days, compared to February’s 123 mm (4.8 in) over 11 days. Humidity is more prominent in February at 84%, while May's humidity sits at 75%. For more details, check out Shelter Island weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, it’s clear that May is significantly warmer, with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F) compared to March's 4°C (39°F). May also boasts a higher maximum temperature of 20°C (69°F), making it feel much more like spring. However, March experiences slightly lower precipitation with 113 mm (4.5 in) over 10 days, while May sees 129 mm (5.1 in) spread across 13 rainy days. Additionally, March has a higher humidity level at 82% compared to 75% in May. For more details on March weather, visit Shelter Island weather in March.
In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, we can observe a noticeable increase in temperature as we transition into late spring. May experiences a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F), while April’s temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Although May is relatively warmer, it also brings slightly less precipitation, with 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days, compared to April's 137 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, at 75% for May and 79% for April, indicating a moist atmosphere as spring progresses. For more details on April weather, you can visit Shelter Island weather in April.
May and June present a notable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average around 12°C (54°F). The month sees a higher precipitation level of 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 rainy days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, June experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). The month is notably drier, with only 72 mm (2.9 in) of rain falling over 8 days, and a slight increase in humidity to 78%. This shift from May to June marks a clear progression toward warmer, drier conditions, making June a more pleasant month for outdoor activities. For specific weather details, check out Shelter Island weather in June.
May and July present quite different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a pleasant maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, averaging 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days, and humidity hovers around 75%. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). Rainfall decreases to 99 mm (3.9 in) over just 10 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 76%. For more detailed information on July weather, you can check Shelter Island weather in July.
May and August present quite a contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). This month sees significant rainfall, accumulating 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days, combined with a humidity level of 75%. In sharp contrast, August offers much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging at 23°C (73°F). Rainfall is less frequent, totaling 103 mm (4.0 in) over just 9 days, while humidity remains fairly steady at 76%. For more details about August weather, you can check out Shelter Island weather in August.
May and September offer distinct contrasts in weather, despite sharing similar humidity levels of 75%. In May, temperatures start cool, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 20°C (69°F). The month is also characterized by higher precipitation, averaging 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days. In contrast, September brings warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 12°C (55°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), reaching a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Additionally, September sees less rainfall, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days. For more specific details on September weather patterns, visit Shelter Island weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, both months exhibit mild temperatures but with noticeable differences. May begins with a chill, featuring minimum temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), while October shows a slight increase with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). The maximum temperatures also rise in October, reaching up to 24°C (75°F) compared to May’s peak of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days, while May experiences 129 mm (5.1 in) across 13 days. Interestingly, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 75%. For a more detailed look, you can check out the Shelter Island weather in October.
In May, temperatures begin to warm up, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching up to 20°C (69°F), making it a pleasant month on average at 12°C (54°F). However, it also experiences higher precipitation levels, averaging 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days, with humidity at 75%. In contrast, November presents a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), resulting in an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). This month sees slightly lower precipitation at 113 mm (4.4 in) over 10 days, while humidity rises to 80%. For a more detailed look at November weather, visit Shelter Island weather in November.
May and December present vastly different weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (39°F) at night to a pleasant 20°C (69°F) during the day, creating a mild average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences 129 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall over 13 days, with a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, December is much colder, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and reaching a maximum of 16°C (61°F), resulting in a lower average of 5°C (42°F). Although December has slightly more precipitation at 147 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days, it also has a higher humidity level of 80%. For a detailed look at December weather specifics, check out Shelter Island weather in December.
As May unfolds on Shelter Island, it brings a refreshing shift in weather, characterized by milder temperatures compared to the chill of early spring. This month experiences an inviting average temperature of 12°C, making outdoor activities increasingly enjoyable. However, with precipitation occurring on about half the days, a light raincoat might be handy for those planning their outings. The higher humidity of 75% adds to the spring feel, creating a lush environment as nature comes alive. To learn more about what to expect throughout the year, explore Shelter Island Climate.