May Weather in Chapel Hill, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Chapel Hill, United States, May brings a delightful blend of warm temperatures and moderate humidity. The maximum temperature can reach a sizzling 36°C (97°F), while the average hovers around a comfortable 21°C (70°F). However, cooler evenings may dip to a brisk 4°C (39°F). This month sees 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation distributed over 11 days, contributing to the lush beauty of the region. With humidity levels at a notable 81%, the air feels invitingly fresh, making May an ideal time to enjoy the vibrant outdoors.

May Temperature in Chapel Hill

In Chapel Hill, United States, May ushers in a delightful warmth as spring transitions to summer. The month features a comfortable average temperature of 21°C (70°F), with daytime highs reaching a generous 36°C (97°F). This marks a significant shift from the cooler months, where temperatures were often in the single digits and low teens. The minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F), while still chilly compared to the sweltering summer ahead, signals the end of the colder days. As May unfolds, residents can relish the vibrant blooming landscapes and longer days, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and gatherings. With this gradual warming trend, it’s clear that Chapel Hill is embracing the sun-drenched days that characterize the upcoming summer months.

May Weather in Chapel Hill: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Chapel Hill, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434852617076807874655146
Data source: Temperature data for Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill

In Chapel Hill, May is characterized by a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 118 mm (4.6 in) of rain falling over 11 days. This slight uptick follows a rainy April and sets the stage for a wet spring, where moisture levels start to rise leading into the summer months. Interestingly, May's rainfall is similar to that of neighboring June, which hints at a continued trend of moisture as temperatures warm. This increase not only nourishes the lush greenery typical of the season but also suggests a gradual transition toward the more humid summer months ahead. As the rain continues to nourish the landscape, Chapel Hill transforms into a vibrant tapestry of life, highlighting nature's resilience and the rhythm of seasonal changes.

May Precipitation Trends in Chapel Hill

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Chapel Hill, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89117841161181211141281289781107
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Chapel Hill

In Chapel Hill, May witnesses a moderate humidity level of 81%, continuing a trend that began in the early spring. As temperatures rise, the humidity remains consistent with March and June, showcasing a balanced atmosphere that is typical for late spring. Notably, this month is part of a gentle decline from the high humidity seen in winter; January starts with a substantial 85%, gradually tapering off. This slight dip in humidity from earlier months sets the stage for the warm and inviting summer, as Chapel Hill transitions smoothly from the moist, cool air of spring to the balmy conditions of summer without significant fluctuation in moisture levels.

May Average Humidity in Chapel Hill

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Chapel Hill, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%82%81%80%81%81%81%80%79%80%86%86%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Chapel Hill

As spring transitions into summer, May's UV Index in Chapel Hill spikes to a remarkable 11, categorizing it as extreme and reducing the burn time to just 10 minutes. This trend mirrors the increasing intensity observed since March, when the UV Index first climbed to very high levels. The progression is striking: starting from a moderate 4 in January, Chapel Hill experiences a steady rise, peaking in May and continuing into June and July. This significant increase emphasizes the need for sun protection as outdoor activities become more prevalent during these warmer months. To learn more about UV trends in this area, visit Chapel Hill UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Chapel Hill for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Chapel Hill 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46810111111109853
Data source: Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill

As spring transitions into summer, May shines brightly in Chapel Hill, boasting an impressive 306 hours of sunshine. This emergence of sun-soaked days continues the upward trend established in April, where the town enjoyed 284 hours of radiant light. Following the cooler months of January and February, which saw 165 and 183 hours respectively, the increasing daylight hours signal the arrival of lush greenery and vibrant blooms. The sunlit days peak in July, capturing the essence of summertime with 352 hours of sunlight. However, as the seasons change, there's a gentle decline towards autumn, but May stands out as a pivotal moment, where the warmth and brightness create the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and festivities in this charming Southern town.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Chapel Hill: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Chapel Hill 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec165h183h256h284h306h323h352h321h289h270h234h203h
Data source: Chapel Hill May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Chapel Hill During May

In Chapel Hill, the likelihood of sunny weather in May dips to 38%, which stands out amidst a generally uplifting trend during the spring months. As we transition from the brisk beginnings of the year, the chances of sunshine flourish in April at 60%, only to retreat slightly as summer approaches. This may be surprising given the warmer climate, yet June and July see a drop in sunny days, with only 34% and 45% respectively. Interestingly, May's relatively modest sunny disposition serves as a gentle reminder that while spring blooms, it may still bring a touch of variability. Overall, while sunshine is certainly a welcomed guest in May, it's essential to keep an eye on the evolving patterns as we move into the summer months.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Chapel Hill

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48%36%43%60%39%34%45%52%58%48%63%45%
Data source: Chapel Hill May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Chapel Hill in May

As spring transitions into summer in Chapel Hill, United States, daylight hours increase significantly, bringing vibrant energy to the area. In May, residents enjoy a delightful 14 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the shorter, more subdued 10 hours found in January and February. This upward trend continues into June and July, where daylight remains consistently at 14 hours, allowing for extended evening activities and gatherings. However, as summer fades into fall, daylight begins to wane, gradually reducing to 12 hours in September and then to 11 hours in October. This natural rhythm highlights the changing seasons, offering a beautiful tapestry of light that shapes the outdoor experience throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Chapel Hill for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Chapel Hill throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h10h 52m11h 59m13h 7m14h 5m14h 33m14h 18m13h 27m12h 21m11h 13m10h 14m9h 44m
Data source: Chapel Hill daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Chapel Hill

In Chapel Hill, the month of May presents a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight drop from the preceding months of April and March, both at 3.3 m/s (7 mph). This trend of gradually decreasing wind speeds continues into the early summer months, where June sees an even gentler pace at 2.4 m/s (5 mph). Interestingly, May's winds remain consistent with the lighter breezes of the later summer and early fall, suggesting a seasonal shift that embraces a calmer atmosphere as temperatures rise. Overall, May serves as a transitional period, bridging the more invigorating spring winds and the softer summer air that will follow.

Average May Wind Speed in Chapel Hill

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Chapel Hill, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.73.23.23.32.6 m/s2.42.52.02.42.83.02.9
Data source: Chapel Hill May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Chapel Hill Compares to Other Months

The weather in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill and find detailed weather information for every month.

In May, temperatures in Chapel Hill range from a cool 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm average of 21°C (70°F) during the day, occasionally peaking at a scorching 36°C (97°F). The month experiences about 118 mm (4.6 inches) of precipitation over 11 days, with humidity levels hovering around 81%. In contrast, January presents a starkly different climate, with temperatures dipping as low as -15°C (6°F) and averaging only 6°C (43°F). Though precipitation is less at 89 mm (3.5 inches) across 9 days, humidity remains high at 85%. For a more detailed look at January weather patterns, check out Chapel Hill weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, noticeable differences emerge in temperature and overall climate conditions. May experiences significantly warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, February is much cooler, with temperatures ranging from -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of only 9°C (48°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, around 117-118 mm (4.6 in), occurring over approximately 11 days, with February slightly higher in humidity at 82%, compared to May's 81%. For more details about February weather, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, we see a notable shift in temperature and precipitation patterns. March experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), while May sees significantly warmer conditions, with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F) and a maximum reaching up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation in March amounts to 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days, while May has slightly more at 118 mm (4.6 in) across 11 days. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level of 81%, highlighting a consistent moisture content in the air. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, we see a noticeable increase in temperatures. While April's temperatures ranged from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant average of 16°C (62°F), May experiences a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a significantly warmer average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at a high of 36°C (97°F). Both months have similar precipitation levels, with April recording 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days and May experiencing slightly more at 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels remain comparable, with April at 80% and May slightly higher at 81%. For more details on April's climate, you can check Chapel Hill weather in April.

May and June both experience warm temperatures, with June generally being slightly warmer. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to an average of 21°C (70°F), reaching a maximum of 36°C (97°F). In contrast, June starts with a higher minimum temperature of 12°C (55°F) and has an average of 24°C (76°F), while still peaking at the same maximum of 36°C (97°F). Both months see significant precipitation, with May receiving 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days and June slightly higher at 121 mm (4.8 in) over 13 days. Humidity remains consistent at 81% for both months. For more detailed information, you can check Chapel Hill weather in June.

May and July display notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging around 21°C (70°F). The month experiences 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, all while maintaining a high humidity level of 81%. In contrast, July sees significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F), an average of 27°C (80°F), and a maximum of 37°C (99°F). Though July has slightly less precipitation at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 14 days, the humidity remains consistent at 81%. For further details, check out Chapel Hill weather in July.

When comparing the weather in May and August, notable differences emerge despite the similar maximum temperatures reaching 36°C (97°F) in both months. May experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to 4°C (39°F) and an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, August begins at a warmer minimum of 15°C (59°F) and maintains a higher average temperature of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in August, with 128 mm (5.1 in) over 15 days compared to May's 118 mm (4.6 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels remain comparable, hovering around 81% in May and 80% in August. For more detailed information, you can explore Chapel Hill weather in August.

May and September each bring distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to fall. In May, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 36°C (97°F) during the day, with an average of 21°C (70°F). This month sees approximately 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with high humidity at 81%. In contrast, September offers milder nights with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a slightly warmer average of 23°C (74°F), peaking at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 128 mm (5.1 in) but occurs over fewer days—only 9—in September, and humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For more details on September's weather, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in September.

May and October present contrasting yet appealing weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm average of 21°C (70°F), with occasional highs reaching up to 36°C (97°F). The month is quite humid, averaging 81% with a total precipitation of 118 mm (4.6 in) spread over 11 days. In contrast, October sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), while still having the potential to reach similar highs of 36°C (98°F). Precipitation in October is lower at 97 mm (3.8 in) over just 9 days, and humidity remains fairly consistent at 80%. For those interested in a deeper look at October weather specifics, you can explore Chapel Hill weather in October.

May and November showcase distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F), indicating warmer days suitable for outdoor activities. However, this month also brings considerable rainfall, with 118 mm (4.6 in) spread across 11 days, and humidity levels averaging 81%.

In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), leading to an average of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is less frequent, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over just 7 days, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity level of 85%. These differences highlight May as a warmer, wetter month, while November presents a cooler, less rainy climate. For more detailed insights, you can check Chapel Hill weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a mild 4°C (39°F) at night to a sweltering 36°C (97°F) during the day, with an average of 21°C (70°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 118 mm (4.6 inches) over about 11 days, and a fairly high humidity level of 81%. Conversely, December brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 107 mm (4.2 inches) over 9 days, while humidity rises to 86%. For more details on December weather, visit Chapel Hill weather in December.

Compare Chapel Hill's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Chapel Hill

As spring transitions into summer, Chapel Hill's May weather offers a delightful mix of warmth and humidity that sets it apart from other months. The average temperatures reach a comfortable 21°C, with maximums sometimes soaring up to 36°C, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. However, the month also sees its share of rain, with about 11 days of precipitation contributing to a total of 118 mm, keeping the landscape lush and vibrant. This elevated humidity of 81% can make the air feel heavier, but it also enhances the refreshing early-season greens of the region. For more detailed insights, check out Chapel Hill Climate.