May Weather in Lancaster, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May weather in Lancaster, United States is characterized by a dynamic range of temperatures, with highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F) and lows dipping to 1°C (34°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 18°C (64°F). This month experiences a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, contributing to a humidity level of 78% that enhances the lush local greenery. Overall, May in Lancaster offers a blend of warmth and moisture, making it a vibrant time of year.

May Temperature in Lancaster

In May, Lancaster experiences a delightful transition from the cooler spring months to the warmth of summer, marked by minimum temperatures averaging around 1°C (34°F) and soaring to a maximum of 34°C (93°F). This month brings an average temperature of 18°C (64°F), making it one of the more pleasant times of the year. With temperatures steadily climbing throughout the spring, May showcases a significant leap from the mild April days, where the highs reached just 30°C (87°F). As nature awakens, the vibrant warmth encourages outdoor activities, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of the season. This transformation not only highlights the shift towards summer but also signals a growing intensity in the weather, setting the stage for the sizzling months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Lancaster, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec343843546473787670604538
Data source: Temperature data for Lancaster 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 Lancaster

In May, Lancaster experiences a notable surge in precipitation, with 128 mm (5.0 in) of rain falling over 14 days—the highest monthly total for the year. This increased rainfall marks a shift from the relatively drier spring months of January to April, where distributions ranged between 62 mm to 103 mm. The trend continues into the summer, setting the stage for even wetter conditions in June and July, which are expected to bring 100 mm and 135 mm, respectively. This pattern indicates that as flowering blooms and temperatures rise, Lancaster's precipitation levels increase, providing essential moisture for the region's vibrant landscape.

May Precipitation Trends in Lancaster

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lancaster, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6210310297128100135138106998997
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Lancaster

May marks a noticeable shift in humidity levels in Lancaster, United States, as the average drops to 78%. This decline continues the downward trend that begins in April, when humidity measures at 81%, suggesting that spring is giving way to the more comfortable conditions of summer. After a winter with consistently high humidity, peaking at 84% in January and December, the transition reveals a gradual reduction through the early months of the year. As June approaches, humidity only slightly increases to 79%, indicating that Lancaster enjoys a brief respite in moisture before the more humid summer months set in. This pattern highlights the city's seasonal rhythm, offering residents and visitors a refreshing break in May.

May Average Humidity in Lancaster

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lancaster, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%83%83%81%78%79%74%72%75%81%85%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Lancaster

As spring gives way to the warmth of summer, Lancaster experiences a notable uptick in UV exposure. In May, the UV Index reaches a striking 10, classified as very high, signaling that just 15 minutes in the sun can lead to burns. This peak is consistent with the preceding months of April and transitions into June, where the UV Index remains at this heightened level. The trend indicates that as the days grow longer and brighter, residents should be particularly vigilant about sun safety. Remember to protect your skin, as the summer months demand increased awareness. For more detailed information, visit the Lancaster UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lancaster for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lancaster 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910101098642
Data source: Lancaster 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 Lancaster

As May rolls into Lancaster, the days grow brighter and longer, with an impressive 264 hours of sunshine illuminating the landscape. This increase marks a noticeable rise from April's 241 hours, setting the stage for the sunniest months ahead. The steady climb in sunlight hours reflects a broader trend as the year progresses, peaking in July with 347 hours. After May, the sunshine begins to wane, but not before leaving its vibrant mark on the spring season. This seasonal transition showcases a delightful shift, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace outdoor activities under the warm glow of the sun. With each passing month, Lancaster basks in a sunlit tapestry that inspires joy and exploration.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lancaster: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lancaster 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec134h172h239h241h264h312h347h307h267h222h216h179h
Data source: Lancaster May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lancaster During May

In May, Lancaster experiences a 39% chance of sunny weather, reflecting a slight decline from the more optimistic percentages seen in March and April, which boast 53% and 42% respectively. This dip aligns with the overall trend of fluctuating sunny days as the months transition toward summer. While May does not stand out as particularly bright, it maintains a consistent average, offering a mix of cloudy and sunny afternoons. Interestingly, as the season progresses into June, the likelihood of sunshine drops again to 37%, suggesting that the early warmth of summer may not always guarantee clear skies. Overall, May serves as a reminder of the variability of spring weather in Lancaster, with just enough sunshine to keep residents hopeful.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Lancaster

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lancaster 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 Lancaster experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec39%28%53%42%39%37%49%35%51%36%54%33%
Data source: Lancaster May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lancaster in May

As spring unfolds into summer, Lancaster, United States experiences a delightful increase in daylight duration, peaking at 14 hours in both May and June. Starting the year with a modest 9 hours in January, the days gradually lengthen, with a notable jump to 11 hours in March and 13 hours by April. May brings longer evenings and vibrant sunsets, inviting residents to enjoy the outdoors. Following this peak, daylight begins to wane slightly, with 13 hours in August, and gradually decreasing to 12 hours in September, before transitioning back to shorter days as fall approaches. This rhythm of extending and retracting daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also enriches the community's lifestyle throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Lancaster for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lancaster throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 41m10h 41m11h 58m13h 17m14h 23m14h 56m14h 38m13h 39m12h 24m11h 5m9h 57m9h 22m
Data source: Lancaster daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Lancaster

In Lancaster, the month of May brings a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), slightly lower than the previous months. This trend echoes a gradual decrease in wind speed leading into the summer, reaching its lowest in July at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). As we transition from the brisk winds of early spring, characterized by an average of 3.6 m/s (8 mph) in March, May offers a mild, pleasant atmosphere that hints at the warmer summer days ahead. The decline in wind speeds throughout spring suggests a serene shift in the weather, making this month an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the blossoming landscape of Lancaster.

Average May Wind Speed in Lancaster

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lancaster, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.33.33.63.53.1 m/s2.72.32.12.92.93.13.0
Data source: Lancaster May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Lancaster Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) to a warm 34°C (93°F), averaging around 18°C (64°F), coupled with a significant 128 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over about 14 days and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, January experiences a much colder climate, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and rarely exceeding 19°C (66°F), averaging just 1°C (35°F). The precipitation in January is notably lower at 62 mm (2.4 in) spread over approximately 8 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Lancaster weather in January.

May and February present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a warm 34°C (93°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). This month also sees considerable rainfall, with 128 mm (5.0 in) spread over 14 days and an average humidity of 78%. In contrast, February experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging only 3°C (38°F). Additionally, February has slightly less precipitation at 103 mm (4.0 in) over 12 days and higher humidity at 83%. For more detailed information, refer to Lancaster weather in February.

When comparing the weather in March and May, there is a substantial shift in temperatures and overall conditions. March experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (3°F) and an average of just 6°C (43°F), whereas May enjoys much warmer averages, starting from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and reaching an average of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with March recording 102 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days compared to May's 128 mm (5.0 in) across 14 days, indicating that May tends to be a bit wetter. Additionally, humidity is slightly higher in March at 83%, compared to May's 78%. For more detailed information on March weather, you can check Lancaster weather in March.

In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May enjoys warmer conditions, with average temperatures rising to 18°C (64°F) and maximums reaching 34°C (93°F), while April's average temperature is only 12°C (54°F) with a peak at 30°C (87°F). Despite May's increased warmth, it also experiences more rainy days, registering 128 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 14 days compared to April's 97 mm (3.8 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 78%, compared to 81% in April. For a detailed look at how April's weather unfolds, you can check Lancaster weather in April.

In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 78%. In contrast, June sees a rise in temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), while the average temperature reaches a comfortable 23°C (73°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 100 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days, and humidity remains relatively steady at 79%. This transition reflects a shift towards warmer and drier conditions as spring gives way to summer. For more details, you can visit Lancaster weather in June.

In comparing the weather between May and July, it's evident that July tends to be warmer and more humid. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to 1°C (34°F) and average temperatures around 18°C (64°F), while July's minimum temperature remains significantly higher at 14°C (58°F) and averages at 26°C (78°F). Additionally, the peak temperatures in July reach as high as 36°C (97°F), whereas May sees a maximum of 34°C (93°F). Precipitation is similar in both months, with May receiving 128 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days and July totals slightly higher at 135 mm (5.3 in) over 13 days. The humidity in May is also a bit higher at 78%, compared to July's 74%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Lancaster weather in July.

In comparison, May experiences a broader range of temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), while August generally has milder temperatures, ranging from 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is slightly higher in August, with 138 mm (5.4 in) falling over 15 days, compared to 128 mm (5.0 in) across 14 days in May. Interestingly, the humidity levels in May are higher at 78%, compared to 72% in August, leading to a more humid feel during the spring month. For more specific insights about August weather, you can visit Lancaster weather in August.

In comparing the weather between May and September, May tends to present a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to 1°C (34°F), while September's lows are generally milder at 5°C (42°F). The average temperatures are also slightly higher in September, averaging 21°C (70°F) compared to May's 18°C (64°F). Both months can experience maximum temperatures reaching up to 34°C (93°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with May receiving 128 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days and September experiencing a bit less at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days. Additionally, both months have relatively high humidity, though September is slightly lower at 75% compared to May's 78%. For more specific details about September weather, you can visit Lancaster weather in September.

May and October showcase distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to fall. In May, temperatures range from a cool 1°C (34°F) at night to a warm average of 18°C (64°F) during the day, peaking at a sweltering 34°C (93°F). The month experiences notable precipitation, with 128 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, October sees slightly higher nighttime temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F), while still reaching similar highs of 34°C (93°F). Precipitation decreases to 99 mm (3.9 in) over just 10 days, and humidity rises slightly to 81%. For more details, take a look at Lancaster weather in October.

May and November present distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm average of 18°C (64°F), peaking at a maximum of 34°C (93°F). This month also sees higher precipitation, with around 128 mm (5.0 in) spread over 14 days and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, November features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of only 7°C (45°F), although it can reach up to 24°C (75°F) at its maximum. November has less overall precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over just 7 days, but a slightly higher humidity level of 85%. For more information on November weather, you can check out Lancaster weather in November.

May and December exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, with 128 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days and humidity levels at 78%. In contrast, December's weather is much colder, featuring temperatures that dip as low as -12°C (12°F) and rise to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of only 3°C (39°F). The precipitation decreases to 96 mm (3.8 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 84%. For a deeper look at how December affects local weather conditions, check out Lancaster weather in December.

Compare Lancaster's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Lancaster

As spring transitions into summer, May weather in Lancaster offers a unique blend of warmth and moisture that sets it apart from other months. With an average temperature that comfortably sits at 18°C (64°F), residents and visitors experience pleasantly mild days. However, the month can also swing to extremes, reaching up to 34°C (93°F), making it a time of vibrant contrasts. The 78% humidity can create a lush and invigorating atmosphere, but it also brings about frequent precipitation, with about 14 rainy days accumulating to 128 mm (5.0 in) of rain. This combination of warmth and rainfall invigorates the landscape, making it an ideal time to enjoy the blossoming flora and outdoor activities. For those curious about ongoing weather patterns, here's a perfect resource: Lancaster Climate.