Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, Banner Elk experiences a delightful mix of temperatures, with maximums reaching 27°C (81°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while the nights cool down to a minimum of -2°C (30°F). This vibrant month is characterized by 148 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation spread across 16 days, resulting in a humidity level of 83% that adds to the region's lush greenery. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails or enjoying local festivities, May in Banner Elk promises a refreshing blend of warmth and refreshing showers, making it a unique time to explore this beautiful mountain town.
In May, Banner Elk welcomes the warmth of spring with temperatures that reflect a beautiful transition from the lingering cold of winter. The average temperature soars to a comfortable 16°C (61°F), providing a delightful backdrop for outdoor activities. Nighttime minimums hover around -2°C (30°F), still hinting at the cooler nights of early spring, while daytime highs reach a pleasant 27°C (81°F). This month showcases a significant rise from April, marking an exciting progression toward summer as the region shakes off winter's chill. It's a time when the lush green landscape bursts into life under the soft sun, inviting visitors and residents alike to explore the beauty of the great outdoors.
May in Banner Elk experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 148 mm (5.8 in) falling over 16 days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. This marks a slight decrease from the 155 mm (6.1 in) recorded in April, indicating a transition as spring edges closer to summer. The frequent rainfall in May, coupled with relatively warm temperatures, fosters lush greenery and vibrant blooms, enhancing the region's natural beauty. As the month beckons tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, the consistent showers remind us of the area’s distinctive climate, setting the stage for the milder, yet equally variable, conditions that follow in June.
In Banner Elk, United States, the humidity levels exhibit a gradual decline as spring transitions into summer. Starting the year with a notably high humidity of 87% in both January and February, the trend shows a slight decrease, reaching 84% in April. By May, the humidity dips further to 83%, indicating the onset of warmer, drier months ahead. This decrease continues into June, where levels stabilize at 83%, before significantly dropping to 79% in July. As summer progresses, humidity levels reach their lowest point in August at 66%, suggesting a refreshing retreat from the earlier dampness. The trend shifts again with a gradual rise in humidity as autumn approaches, peaking at 89% in November. This cyclical pattern showcases the region's dynamic climate, oscillating between humidity-laden winters and pleasantly drier summers.
In May, Banner Elk experiences an extreme UV Index of 11, matching the peak levels observed in April and continuing through to June. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it's crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions, such as applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, to avoid harmful effects. This trend of escalating UV exposure highlights the need for vigilance as spring transitions into summer. As residents and visitors alike enjoy the beautiful mountain landscapes, understanding these UV levels is vital for safe outdoor activities. For more detailed information, check out the Banner Elk UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May brings a delightful surge of sunshine to Banner Elk, with 303 hours of sunlight illuminating the vibrant landscapes. This month marks a significant increase from the preceding months, reflecting a trend of longer daylight as spring unfolds. As the year progresses, May's sunshine sets the stage for the upcoming summer, where June peaks with 319 hours before the days begin to gradually shorten. The natural rhythm of sunlight not only enhances outdoor activities but also creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. With each passing month, Banner Elk transforms into a sunlit haven, inviting all to bask in its radiant beauty.
In Banner Elk, North Carolina, the likelihood of sunny weather in May is relatively low at 32%, slightly dipping after the promising 53% in April. This trend of fluctuating sunshine continues into the summer months, where June and July see a modest increase to 33% and 44%, respectively. It's interesting to note that the best chances for sunshine typically occur in the fall, particularly in September with a notable 49%. As the seasons transition, May stands as a curious point, hinting at unpredictable weather patterns that balance the charm of springtime blooms with occasional clouds.
In Banner Elk, United States, May signals a delightful transition into longer days, boasting 14 hours of daylight. This increase from 13 hours in April marks a significant leap as spring unfolds into early summer, showcasing a trend of gradually lengthening days that started back in January with just 9 hours. The daylight hours continue to hold steady through June and July, creating an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes, the daylight begins to decline again in August, ushering in a gentle shift towards fall. This cyclical rhythm of daylight in Banner Elk beautifully mirrors the seasonal changes, enriching the community's connection to nature throughout the year.
In Banner Elk, United States, the winds of May begin to mellow, with an average speed of only 2.3 m/s (5 mph), making it one of the calmer months of the year. As spring gives way to summer, there is a noticeable trend of decreasing wind speeds that starts in May and continues into the warmer months. This shift is reflected in the consistent drop from April's 3.2 m/s, suggesting a transition to more tranquil weather after the brisk breezes of early spring. As summer approaches, those seeking outdoor activities can enjoy the gentler winds that characterize May and gradually carry into June and July, encouraging a serene atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike.
The weather in Banner Elk 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 Banner Elk and find detailed weather information for every month.
May's weather presents a stark contrast to that of January, with significantly milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a warm 27°C (81°F). In comparison, January struggles with much colder conditions, featuring a low of -17°C (1°F), an average of just 1°C (35°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). While May sees more precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, January experiences less rain at 97 mm (3.8 in) on 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in January at 87%, compared to 83% in May. To learn more about January weather specifics, you can check out Banner Elk weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month sees a total precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, February experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and a maximum of 23°C (75°F), averaging just 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 138 mm (5.4 in) over 15 days, while humidity is slightly higher at 87%. For a detailed look at February weather in the area, visit Banner Elk weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, May generally offers milder temperatures and a more pleasant climate. The average temperature in May reaches around 16°C (61°F), significantly warmer than March's average of 7°C (45°F). Additionally, May experiences higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 27°C (81°F), while March can reach up to 28°C (83°F) but often begins the month with colder minimums at -12°C (11°F). While precipitation is slightly higher in May at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days compared to March's 121 mm (4.7 in) over 14 days, May's humidity of 83% is marginally lower than March's 86%, making the former feel a bit more comfortable. For more detailed insights, you can check Banner Elk weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, May generally offers milder temperatures, with an average of 16°C (61°F) compared to April's cooler 11°C (52°F). While both months experience similar maximum temperatures, April brings colder minimums down to -6°C (21°F), whereas May's lows are slightly higher at -2°C (30°F). Although May sees a slight increase in precipitation with 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, April has slightly higher total precipitation at 155 mm (6.1 in) across 13 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with May at 83% and April at 84%. For more details on the weather conditions in April, you can visit Banner Elk weather in April.
May and June both present mild weather patterns, but with a notable difference in temperature. May sees a wider range, with minimum temperatures dipping to -2°C (30°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while June starts warmer, with minimum temperatures at 6°C (43°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar in both months, with May experiencing 148 mm (5.8 inches) over 16 days and June slightly lower at 144 mm (5.7 inches) across 17 days. Interestingly, the humidity remains constant in both months at 83%. For more specific details, you can check the Banner Elk weather in June.
May and July exhibit quite different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a more comfortable average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a warm 27°C (81°F). This month is marked by significant precipitation, receiving 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity at 83%. In contrast, July features a milder temperature range, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum of 30°C (85°F). Although July sees slightly less precipitation at 124 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, the humidity levels are a bit lower at 79%. For more specific details on July weather, check out Banner Elk weather in July.
May and August present contrasting weather patterns, characterized by significant differences in temperature and humidity. In May, temperatures fluctuate more dramatically, with a minimum of -2°C (30°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while August maintains a milder range, starting from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and averaging around 20°C (69°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with May recording 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days and August slightly higher at 147 mm (5.8 in) over 17 days. However, May's higher humidity at 83% creates a much more muggy atmosphere compared to the drier, more comfortable 66% humidity experienced in August. For more detailed insights, check out Banner Elk weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns that reflect the transition between spring and autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences a higher level of precipitation, averaging 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, alongside a humidity level of 83%.
Conversely, September offers slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 3°C (38°F) to a warm 28°C (83°F), and an average of 18°C (65°F). The precipitation levels decrease to 134 mm (5.3 in) over just 13 days, while humidity drops significantly to 68%. For those interested in the specifics, you can explore the details here: Banner Elk weather in September.
In May, the weather typically features a wider temperature range, with minimums around -2°C (30°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (81°F). The average temperature is a comfortable 16°C (61°F), accompanied by considerable precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, resulting in a higher humidity level of 83%. In contrast, October experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums dipping to -4°C (25°F) and maximums ranging up to 29°C (84°F). The average temperature in October drops to 13°C (56°F), and while precipitation remains similar at 146 mm (5.7 in), it occurs over fewer days (11), leading to a lower humidity of 78%. For a more detailed look at October weather, check out Banner Elk weather in October.
May and November present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a warm maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month sees a fair amount of rain, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 16 days, coupled with a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, November experiences colder conditions, with a minimum temperature dropping to -10°C (14°F) and an average of only 6°C (43°F). While it has a higher maximum temperature of 22°C (72°F), November's total precipitation is lower at 82 mm (3.2 in) over just 9 days, along with slightly higher humidity at 89%. For more insights on what to expect in November, check out Banner Elk weather in November.
In May, the weather is notably milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (81°F). This month also experiences a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, and maintains a humidity level of 83%.
In contrast, December presents a much colder climate, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of just 4°C (39°F). The maximum temperature reaches 20°C (69°F), but the overall chill is accompanied by 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days and a slightly higher humidity level of 86%. For more details on the conditions during this winter month, you can visit Banner Elk weather in December.
As May unfolds in Banner Elk, the weather reveals a delightful contrast to the chillier months that precede it. With temperatures rising significantly, the region transitions from brisk springtime to a more mild and inviting atmosphere, marked by blooming flora and vibrant landscapes. While the average temperature settles comfortably around 16°C, the occasional peak at 27°C brings a taste of early summer warmth, enticing outdoor enthusiasts to explore the scenic beauty. However, the month does come with its share of precipitation, as about 16 days experience rain, contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes this time of year. With humidity levels hovering around 83%, the air feels refreshing yet invigorating, creating the perfect backdrop for various outdoor activities. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns throughout the year, check out Banner Elk Climate.