May Weather in Cincinnati, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Cincinnati showcases a vibrant transition into warmer days, with maximum temperatures soaring up to 33°C (92°F) and an average settling at a pleasant 19°C (66°F). As spring reigns, the city witnesses 14 days of rain, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation, contributing to a lush, green landscape. The humidity hovers around a notable 81%, creating a balance of warmth and freshness, perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Whether basking in the sun or seeking shelter from rain, May offers a dynamic climate that embodies the city's lively spirit.

May Temperature in Cincinnati

In Cincinnati, May ushers in a delightful shift in temperatures, with the city shaking off the chill of winter and embracing the warmth of spring. The month showcases a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F), gradually rising to an average of 19°C (66°F), and peaking at a sizzling 33°C (92°F). This trend marks a stark contrast to the cooler and more frigid months preceding it, as Cincinnati experiences a significant increase in warmth, making May an ideal time for outdoor activities and blooming landscapes. With flowers in full bloom and longer daylight hours, the city begins to vibrate with life, offering residents and visitors alike the perfect environment to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of late spring.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Cincinnati, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec333745546674787571594439
Data source: Temperature data for Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati

In May, Cincinnati experiences a noteworthy uptick in precipitation, with 127 mm (or 5.0 inches) of rainfall spread across 14 days. This slight increase from April's 119 mm highlights the region's transition into a wetter spring season, paving the way for lush landscapes as flora awakens. March, with its 137 mm, marks the peak of the spring deluge, but May still holds its ground as one of the rainier months. As temperatures rise, these refreshing showers contribute not just to the vibrant scenery, but also to the overall climate patterns leading into the summer months. The trend of consistent rainfall in May indicates a typical spring rhythm for Cincinnati, where occasional downpours nurture the blossoming beauty of the outdoors.

May Precipitation Trends in Cincinnati

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Cincinnati, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8010713711912713111089819699110
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Cincinnati

As spring transitions into summer, May in Cincinnati experiences a noticeable drop in humidity, averaging 81%. This marks a continuation of the pattern established in the previous months, where humidity levels declined from 88% in January to 85% in April. The gradual decrease suggests a shift towards a slightly more comfortable atmosphere, paving the way for enjoyable outdoor activities. While June sees a slight uptick to 82%, the overall trend highlights a relative reprieve from the more oppressive humidity of late spring and early summer. Engaging in recreational pursuits during this time becomes increasingly appealing, as the city begins to warm up but maintains enough moisture to avoid dryness.

May Average Humidity in Cincinnati

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Cincinnati, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%88%87%85%81%82%81%73%73%78%89%87%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Cincinnati

As the month of May rolls into Cincinnati, residents should prepare for a significant spike in sun intensity, with the UV Index reaching 10, classifying it as very high. This trend marks a progression from April's already elevated level of 9, emphasizing the need for enhanced sun protection, as the burn time decreases to just 15 minutes. Interestingly, this pattern continues into the early summer months, with June and July also maintaining a UV Index of 10. It's essential to stay vigilant during this period, as prolonged exposure can lead to skin damage in no time. For more details on the UV Index throughout the year, check out Cincinnati UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Cincinnati for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Cincinnati 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910101098643
Data source: Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati

In Cincinnati, the month of May shines brightly with 287 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful peak as warmer weather approaches. This surge in sunlight follows a steady increase from January's modest 122 hours, with each month progressively welcoming more rays—most notably, the leap from April's 237 hours to May's vibrant total. This trend highlights Cincinnati's transition into summer, where June continues this sunny spell with an impressive 320 hours. The consistent rise in sunshine hours not only ushers in the energetic atmosphere of late spring but also sets the stage for summer's abundant brightness, inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in the warmth and enjoy the outdoors.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Cincinnati: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Cincinnati 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec122h151h224h237h287h320h348h321h282h244h196h160h
Data source: Cincinnati May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Cincinnati During May

In Cincinnati, the likelihood of sunny weather sees quite a dynamic shift as the seasons transition. May, with a 32% chance of sun, reflects a dip compared to the previous month, April, which boasts a 50% sunny probability. This trend indicates that while spring begins to fade, the anticipation of more consistent sunshine in June and beyond (with a 37% chance) is just around the corner. Interestingly, the sunny percentage peaks later in the year, particularly in September at 56%, suggesting that Cincinnatians often enjoy bright skies as summer departs and autumn arrives. Overall, while May might not be the sunniest month, it certainly sets the groundwork for brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Cincinnati

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec29%26%46%50%32%37%48%41%56%38%48%35%
Data source: Cincinnati May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Cincinnati in May

In Cincinnati, the evolution of daylight duration reflects the transition from the cold grip of winter to the warmth of summer. January kicks off with a brief 9 hours of daylight, gradually increasing as spring approaches. By March, daylight stretches to 11 hours, heralding the arrival of flowers and milder temperatures. The ascent continues through April, reaching 13 hours, and peaks in May with a delightful 14 hours of sunlight. This generous stretch of daylight continues into June and July, where vibrant summer days encourage outdoor activities and community gatherings. As summer wanes, August sees a gradual decrease back to 13 hours, transitioning into the shorter days of fall, marked by 12 hours in September and a return to 11 hours in October. By the time November rolls around, daylight wanes back to 10 hours, setting the stage for the cyclical return to shorter winter days, with December again sitting at 9 hours. This rhythm of increasing and decreasing daylight not only shapes the seasons but also influences the mood and activities of the city’s inhabitants.

Average Daylight Hours in Cincinnati for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Cincinnati throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 45m10h 44m11h 58m13h 15m14h 19m14h 51m14h 34m13h 36m12h 23m11h 7m10h9h 26m
Data source: Cincinnati daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Cincinnati

In Cincinnati, the winds of May offer a gentle transition from spring to summer, with an average speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This is notably softer compared to the spring months of March and April, where winds peak at 3.5 m/s (8 mph) and 3.3 m/s (7 mph) respectively. As the year progresses into the warmer months, wind speeds continue a downward trend, reaching their annual lows in July and August at 2.3 m/s (5 mph) and 2.1 m/s (5 mph). This pattern underscores May's role as a bridge, where the invigorating breezes of early spring start to wane, paving the way for the more tranquil summer days ahead. Overall, the wind in May reflects the softening of the seasonal transitions in Cincinnati, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the mild weather without the briskness that earlier months offer.

Average May Wind Speed in Cincinnati

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Cincinnati, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.03.33.53.32.7 m/s2.72.32.12.92.93.13.3
Data source: Cincinnati May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Cincinnati Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a warm 33°C (92°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 19°C (66°F). This month sees considerable precipitation at 127 mm (5.0 in) over about 14 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 81%. In contrast, January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and a maximum of 21°C (69°F), averaging just 1°C (33°F). The precipitation level is lower at 80 mm (3.2 in) across 10 days, and humidity is slightly higher at 88%. For more detailed information, check out Cincinnati weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, the differences are striking. May boasts a much warmer temperature range, with minimums of 0°C (33°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (92°F), while February experiences a much colder climate, with minimum temperatures dipping as low as -19°C (-3°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F). Additionally, May sees higher average temperatures of 19°C (66°F) compared to February's chilly average of 3°C (37°F). While May has more rain, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, February is only slightly drier at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 13 days. Humidity is also notable, with both months exhibiting high levels; however, February has a slightly higher humidity level at 88%, compared to May’s 81%. For a deeper look at February's climate specifics, you can visit Cincinnati weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May to that of March, there are notable differences in temperature and overall climate conditions. May boasts a much warmer temperature range, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), compared to March's chillier minimum of -15°C (5°F) and average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation levels in both months are relatively similar, with May receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days and March experiencing slightly more at 137 mm (5.4 in) across 13 days. Humidity is also slightly lower in May at 81%, while March maintains a higher humidity level of 87%. For more details on March weather patterns, you can check out Cincinnati weather in March.

In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, it's clear that May experiences a noticeable temperature increase, with average temperatures rising from 12°C (55°F) in April to 19°C (66°F) in May. While April's maximum temperature reaches 30°C (86°F), May surpasses this with highs of 33°C (92°F). Both months see a similar amount of precipitation, with May recording 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days compared to April's 119 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains high in both months, slightly decreasing from 85% in April to 81% in May. For more details on the April climate, check out Cincinnati weather in April.

In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) to a warm peak of 33°C (92°F), averaging around 19°C (66°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days and humidity levels at 81%. By contrast, June sees a rise in temperatures, with minimums of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), reaching a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 131 mm (5.2 in) across 13 days, while humidity remains comparable at 82%. For detailed weather patterns, check out Cincinnati weather in June.

In May, temperatures range from a cool 0°C (33°F) at night to a warm max of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, creating a humid atmosphere with consistent humidity at 81%.

In contrast, July offers a notably warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 15°C (60°F) and maximums reaching 35°C (95°F), averaging around 25°C (78°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, yet the humidity remains consistent at 81%. For more specifics on the July climate, you can check out Cincinnati weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather patterns. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to 0°C (33°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (92°F), while August is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F). Precipitation in May is also more significant, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 14 days compared to August's 89 mm (3.5 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels tend to be higher in May at 81%, while August offers slightly more comfortable conditions with 73% humidity. For more specific details, you can check out Cincinnati weather in August.

May and September present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition between spring and fall. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) to a warm 33°C (92°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, coupled with high humidity at 81%. In contrast, September offers a milder climate with temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) to a hotter 35°C (95°F), averaging 21°C (71°F). The month experiences less rainfall, with 81 mm (3.2 in) over just 8 days and a reduced humidity of 73%. For more detailed information, check out Cincinnati weather in September.

May and October present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range significantly, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (92°F), averaging around 19°C (66°F). The month experiences substantial rainfall, totaling about 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, along with high humidity at 81%. In contrast, October has a slightly cooler average temperature of 15°C (59°F), with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is lower in October, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 12 days, and humidity is also marginally lower at 78%. For more detailed information, you can check out Cincinnati weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition between spring and late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a warm average of 19°C (66°F), with potential highs of 33°C (92°F). The month experiences significant rainfall of 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, November sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum reaching -13°C (9°F) and an average of only 7°C (44°F), peaking at 26°C (80°F). Precipitation is lighter at 99 mm (3.9 in), occurring over fewer days—only 8 in total—along with increased humidity at 89%. For more insights on the condition in this month, check out Cincinnati weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 81% and more precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 14 days. In contrast, December's colder climate features temperatures ranging from -16°C (4°F) to 19°C (67°F), with an average of just 4°C (39°F). While December has slightly less precipitation at 110 mm (4.3 in) over 10 days, it has a higher humidity level of 87%. These differences highlight the transition from spring warmth in May to the winter chill of December. For more specifics on December weather, visit Cincinnati weather in December.

Compare Cincinnati's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Cincinnati

As May arrives in Cincinnati, residents welcome a noticeable shift in weather, characterized by much warmer temperatures and increased humidity compared to earlier spring months. The average temperature rises significantly, often reaching a peak of 33°C (92°F), inviting outdoor activities and events. However, with this warmth comes frequent rainfall—approximately 14 days in the month contribute to a total precipitation of 127 mm (5.0 in), essential for the vibrant spring flora. This blend of warmth and moisture leads to a humid atmosphere, making May a lush and lively month in Cincinnati. To dive deeper into the city's climate patterns through the seasons, explore Cincinnati Climate.