Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Wilmington, United States, the weather in May showcases a warm transition into summer with a maximum temperature soaring to 36°C (96°F), while the average hovers around a comfortable 22°C (72°F). The month experiences a cool minimum of 7°C (44°F), providing a diverse range of temperatures. However, the climate is characterized by insistent humidity levels averaging 81%, contributing to a sultry atmosphere. With precipitation totaling 112 mm (4.4 in) across 10 rainy days, May in Wilmington perfectly balances bright, sunny moments with refreshing showers, making it a dynamic month for both locals and visitors alike.
In May, Wilmington, United States, welcomes the warmth of late spring as temperatures rise significantly, showcasing a delightful transformation from the chill of winter. With minimums averaging around 7°C (44°F) and daily averages climbing to a pleasant 22°C (72°F), May sets the stage for outdoor activities and festivities. The peak temperatures can soar to a sweltering 36°C (96°F), hinting at the impending summer heat. This month not only marks a notable increase in warmth but also acts as a bridge to the sultry days of June, establishing a trend towards increasingly higher temperatures as the season progresses. Whether soaking up the sun or enjoying the vibrant blooms of spring, May's climate offers something special for everyone in Wilmington.
In May, Wilmington experiences a notable surge in precipitation, with 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain falling over 10 days. This increase sets the stage for the wetter months ahead, as the city transitions from the milder April rains. The month not only marks a continuation of the spring showers but also foreshadows the more intense summer downpours that follow in June and July. The trend shows that Wilmington's precipitation tends to escalate significantly as summer approaches, making May a pivotal month in the region's annual weather pattern. Such rainfall not only revitalizes local flora but also prepares the area for the heavier rains that define the upcoming summer months.
In May, Wilmington experiences a humidity level of 81%, maintaining the consistent trend seen since early spring. After a gradual decline from January's high of 85%, humidity levels remain stable through the month, mirroring the measurements of June and July. This humidity consistency suggests a mild yet somewhat moist environment, as Wilmington transitions into the warmer summer months. As the year progresses, humidity begins to dip slightly, indicating a shift toward dryer conditions, but even in May, the lingering moisture adds a refreshing quality to the coastal air, perfectly suited for enjoying the region's beautiful outdoor spaces.
In May, Wilmington experiences a significant shift in UV radiation, with the UV Index peaking at 11, categorizing the exposure as extreme. This trend marks a departure from the previous months, as spring transitions fully into summer, leading to a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. As temperatures rise and outdoor activities abound, it’s essential for residents and visitors to prioritize sun safety to avoid harmful effects. Following May, the UV Index remains at this extreme level into June and July, making it vital to stay informed and protected. To learn more about UV levels throughout the year, check out Wilmington UV Index.
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May in Wilmington shines brightly with 332 hours of glorious sunshine, marking a peak in the springtime radiance. As we transition from the refreshing April days, which offered 306 hours, the month of May demonstrates a steady upward trend in sunlight, setting a warm and inviting tone for the summer ahead. This increase is part of a larger pattern, as the city basks in consistently bright days through June and July, where sunshine hours reach 317 and 337 respectively. With each passing month, Wilmington embraces the lush, sun-soaked ambiance, making May a delightful harbinger of the longer days and vibrant outdoor activities that summer brings.
As we transition into May in Wilmington, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather maintains a moderate 47%. While this figure is a slight dip from the optimistic 60% seen in April, it remains significantly higher than the lower probabilities in the earlier months of the year, like January and February, which hover around 49% and 35%, respectively. This trend indicates that as spring deepens, Wilmington gradually experiences more consistent sunshine, especially as we approach the summer months. Notably, while June sees a decrease to 29%, the increasing likelihood of radiant days comes back into play with late spring and early fall, making May a delightful time to enjoy outdoor activities under the sun.
As spring unfolds in Wilmington, May brings a delightful continuation of daylight with around 13 hours of sunshine, mirroring the previous month of April. This consistent daylight duration marks a shift from the shorter days of winter, where January and February each offered just 10 hours. The increase is particularly noticeable as Wilmington transitions into summer, approaching 14 hours of daylight by June. This gradual buildup not only enhances outdoor activities but also contributes to a burgeoning sense of warmth and vibrancy in the community. Following May, the daylight begins to taper off in August, showcasing a rhythmic pattern of nature’s cycle that residents eagerly anticipate throughout the year.
In Wilmington, May marks a subtle transition in wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph), slightly lower than the previous months of March and April. As spring gives way to summer, the winds remain relatively mild, hinting at the approach of warmer days. Over the course of the year, notable trends emerge, including a gradual decrease in wind speed during the summer months of July and August, which dip to their annual lows, creating a calm backdrop perfect for enjoying the coastal charm. Meanwhile, the fall months see a modest resurgence in wind speed, suggesting a seasonal shift that could spice up the local weather. Overall, May’s breezes carry a gentle promise of summer, blending seamlessly into the evolving rhythm of the year in this vibrant city.
The weather in Wilmington 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 Wilmington and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month receives about 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 81%. In stark contrast, January experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between -9°C (16°F) and 25°C (76°F), averaging around 9°C (48°F). The precipitation in January is lower, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) across about 9 days, while humidity sits at a slightly higher 85%. For more specific details, you can refer to Wilmington weather in January.
May and February present quite contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F), making it significantly warmer than February, where temperatures range from -4°C (25°F) to 25°C (77°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). While both months receive about 103-112 mm (4.1-4.4 in) of precipitation over approximately ten days, February tends to be colder, with frosty nights, while May brings a more humid atmosphere at 81%, compared to February's slightly higher humidity of 82%. For more details on February weather in Wilmington, check out Wilmington weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, there's a notable contrast in temperatures and overall climate conditions. May boasts a much warmer average temperature of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a scorching 36°C (96°F), while March's average stands at a cooler 13°C (56°F) with a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation at 112 mm (4.4 in) across 10 days, compared to March's 73 mm (2.9 in) over 9 days. Despite both months having a humidity level of 81%, the warmer temperatures in May make it feel considerably more tropical, emphasizing the transition into summer. For a closer look at March's climate specifics, visit Wilmington weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it’s clear that May tends to be significantly warmer. The minimum temperature in May is considerably higher at 7°C (44°F) compared to April's chilly 0°C (32°F). May also boasts a higher average temperature of 22°C (72°F) and can reach maximums of 36°C (96°F), while April's maximum is a milder 29°C (84°F). Both months are relatively humid, with May at 81% and April at 80%, but May experiences slightly more precipitation, with 112 mm (4.4 in) falling over 10 days compared to April's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days. For more details about April’s weather, you can check Wilmington weather in April.
When comparing the weather in May and June, a noticeable shift occurs. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to 7°C (44°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (96°F), resulting in an average temperature of 22°C (72°F). In contrast, June sees warmer nights with minimum temperatures of 12°C (55°F) and a slightly higher average of 25°C (77°F), although maximum temperatures are a bit lower at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation also increases from 112 mm (4.4 in) over 10 days in May to 156 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days in June, indicating that June is not only warmer but also wetter. Both months maintain a high humidity level of 81%. For a more detailed look at June weather, you can check Wilmington weather in June.
May experiences a warmer range of temperatures, with minimums around 7°C (44°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (96°F), contributing to an average of 22°C (72°F). However, May also brings significant rainfall, tallying 112 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 10 days. In contrast, July presents milder minimum temperatures beginning at 17°C (63°F), with an average of 27°C (80°F) and maximums around 33°C (92°F). Although July has slightly lower maximum temperatures than May, it sees an increase in precipitation, with 169 mm (6.6 in) falling over 18 days, while maintaining the same humidity level of 81%. For more detailed information, check out Wilmington weather in July.
May and August exhibit distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a warm maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences significant precipitation at 112 mm (4.4 in) over about 10 days and maintains a high humidity level of 81%. In contrast, August sees a milder temperature range, with minimums of 17°C (63°F) and maximums of 34°C (94°F), averaging 26°C (80°F). However, it is wetter than May, with a total precipitation of 209 mm (8.2 in) spread across 22 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 80%. For a detailed look at how these conditions manifest, you can visit Wilmington weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns. May typically showcases a minimum temperature of 7°C (44°F) and averages around 22°C (72°F), peaking at a maximum of 36°C (96°F). This month experiences about 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days, with humidity levels relatively high at 81%. In contrast, September starts slightly warmer, with minimum temperatures of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 25°C (76°F), reaching maximums of 34°C (93°F). However, it is wetter, with 215 mm (8.5 in) of rainfall spread over 13 days and slightly lower humidity at 79%. For more specifics on September conditions, check out Wilmington weather in September.
May and October exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a sweltering maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month also sees higher precipitation at 112 mm (4.4 in) over about 10 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 81%. In contrast, October presents milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging 21°C (69°F). The precipitation decreases to 67 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 9 days, and humidity slightly drops to 80%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, you can check out Wilmington weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 7°C (44°F) at night to a warm 36°C (96°F) during the day, with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences a substantial amount of rainfall, totaling 112 mm (4.4 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 81%. In contrast, November brings cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -2°C (28°F) at night and reaching a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 13°C (57°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 118 mm (4.6 in), also spread over 10 days, and humidity remains high at 85%. This makes November significantly chillier than May, despite similar precipitation patterns. For further details, you can check out Wilmington weather in November.
May and December present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F), making it a much warmer month overall. Humidity levels are high at 81%, and precipitation averages 112 mm (4.4 in) over about 10 days. Conversely, December experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping to a low of -4°C (25°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F), resulting in a much lower average of 11°C (52°F). December's precipitation is slightly higher at 127 mm (5.0 in) over the same number of rainy days, and humidity is slightly elevated at 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Wilmington weather in December.
As May unfolds in Wilmington, the weather marks a vibrant transition with warmer temperatures and increased humidity, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blossoming scenery. Compared to the cooler months, May's average temperature creates a more pleasantly warm atmosphere, while the likelihood of rain is balanced by sunny days. With about ten days of precipitation, the occasional shower is a welcome respite, enhancing the lush greenery of the region. The combination of warmth and humidity sets the stage for a lively outdoor experience, making May an ideal time to explore all that Wilmington has to offer. For a deeper understanding of the weather patterns in this charming southern city, visit Wilmington Climate.