Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, the weather across the northern United States presents a vibrant tapestry of temperatures and conditions. Daily highs can soar to 38°C (101°F), while the average temperature settles comfortably at 23°C (74°F), making this month a delightful transition into summer. However, temperatures can dip to a brisk 6°C (43°F), highlighting the variability of spring. The region receives about 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, contributing to a relative humidity of 75%. This mix of warmth and moisture fosters lush landscapes, ensuring that May is both invigorating and refreshing for residents and visitors alike.
As May rolls in, the North United States embraces a significant warming trend, with temperatures transitioning from the lingering chill of early spring to the balmy days of late spring. The minimum temperature rises to a mild 6°C (43°F), offering more comfort as outdoor activities beckon. By this time, the average temperature peaks at 23°C (74°F), marking a notable increase from previous months, while the maximum can soar to an impressive 38°C (101°F), a sharp contrast to the winter months. This upward shift not only signals the departure of frost but also hints at the vibrant life that summer will soon bring, showcasing the beauty of seasonal change in this northern landscape.
In May, the North United States experiences a notable transition in its precipitation patterns, recording 104 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall over nine days. This amount is slightly less than April's 116 mm, suggesting a gradual easing of spring rains. However, it remains a pivotal month as the region prepares for the wetter summer ahead, with June typically ramping up to 122 mm (4.8 in). May's consistent rainfall, compared to the relatively dry January and March, underscores the shift towards a more humid climate, heralding the lush growth of vegetation that summer brings. As temperatures rise, the balance of precipitation sets the stage for both flourishing landscapes and potential storms in the months to follow.
As spring transitions into summer, May in the northern United States sees a notable shift in humidity levels, dropping to 75%. This decrease continues a downward trend that began in April, when humidity measured 79%, and marks the lowest point since the coldest months. By May, the air feels a touch crisper, paving the way for the warmer, more humid summer months ahead. Following a steady rise from January's peak of 86%, the relative humidity begins to stabilize in June, remaining consistent at 75%. This pattern highlights a seasonal ebb and flow, where the freshness of early spring gives way to the warming embrace of summer, suggesting a time of both renewal and the anticipation of the sweltering months that follow.
As we transition into May, the UV Index in the Northern United States hits an alarming peak of 11, categorizing it as extreme and reducing burn time to a mere 10 minutes. This surge follows a pattern of increasing UV intensity through the spring months, starting from a moderate 4 in January and escalating through high and very high levels in February, March, and April. With the sun's rays becoming increasingly intense, it's crucial to prioritize sun safety and protection during this time. The trend continues into June, July, and August, where the UV Index remains at this extreme level, making May a pivotal month for sun awareness. For more on UV Index trends and safe exposure practices, visit North UV Index.
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As spring fully blooms into summer, May heralds a brilliant shift in sunlight hours for the Northern United States, boasting 312 hours of radiant sunshine. This marks a significant increase from the 290 hours recorded in April, reflecting the region’s transition from the coolness of early spring to the warmth of late spring. The momentum continues into June with 314 hours of sunshine, solidifying the trend of longer, brighter days. Following the pattern established in the preceding months, May stands out as a pivotal month, setting the stage for the sun-drenched days of summer ahead. The gradual increase in sunshine hours, from 174 hours in January to this vibrant peak, highlights the growing energy and promise of the season, inviting outdoor activities and a renewed appreciation for nature.
As May arrives in the northern United States, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather takes a refreshing turn, with a 47% chance of sunshine. This represents a slight dip from the previous month, April, which boasts the highest percentage at 56%. Interestingly, compared to the drearier months of early winter—where January sees just 45% sun and February drops to 36%—May indicates a promising transition towards more agreeable conditions. This upward trend continues through the warmer months until a notable low in June at 30%, before fluctuating in the later summer and early fall. Thus, while May may not guarantee endless sunny days, it certainly positions itself as a bridge, leading the way to more consistently bright months ahead.
As spring unfolds into May, daylight duration in the northern United States holds steady at 13 hours—a vibrant continuation of April's lengthening days. This consistent daylight sets the stage for outdoor activities and blooming natural beauty. As the warmth of summer approaches in June, we observe daylight peak at 14 hours, enhancing the lively atmosphere. Notably, the sunlight slowly begins to recede come August, signaling a transition towards autumn. The gradual ebb of daylight is a gentle reminder of nature's cycles, dropping to 10 hours by November and culminating in just 9 hours in the depths of December, where the long winter nights take over. This rhythmic pattern not only enriches the changing seasons but also influences the activities and mood of those basking under the sun.
In May, the average wind speed in the northern United States dips slightly to 3.2 m/s (7 mph), continuing a trend of gradual decline as the warmer months approach. This marks a steady reduction from the 3.4 m/s recorded in both January and April. As spring transitions to summer, wind speeds tend to soften, with June and July experiencing the lowest averages of the year at 2.8 m/s and 2.5 m/s, respectively. The overall trend indicates a gentle shift in wind patterns, moving from stronger, cooler breezes in the earlier months to more subdued winds as temperatures rise, highlighting the changing dynamics of weather as the region moves closer to summer.
The weather in North 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 North and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather characteristics. May experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a sweltering maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging around 23°C (74°F). In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging 10°C (49°F). While January is drier with 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 8 days and higher humidity at 86%, May sees more rain, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days and a humidity level of 75%. Such differences make each month unique in its climate and atmosphere. For more details on this seasonal contrast, you can check out North weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge. May boasts a much warmer climate, with average temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F) and highs soaring up to 38°C (101°F), while February experiences cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with May receiving 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days and February slightly less at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days. Furthermore, humidity is slightly lower in May at 75% compared to February's 81%, making May feel warmer and more comfortable overall. For more specific insights into February weather, you can refer to North weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. May experiences a much warmer climate, with average temperatures around 23°C (74°F) peaking at 38°C (101°F), while March has cooler averages of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Additionally, May sees higher total precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days, as compared to March's 80 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are somewhat similar, with May at 75% and March at 81%, highlighting the more humid conditions of early spring. For more detailed insights, you can explore North weather in March.
The weather in May shows a significant warming trend compared to April, with average temperatures rising from 19°C (66°F) in April to 23°C (74°F) in May. While both months experience relatively high humidity, May tends to be slightly less humid at 75%, compared to April's 79%. Additionally, May records a higher maximum temperature of 38°C (101°F), whereas April peaks at 33°C (92°F). However, April sees slightly more precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 8 days, compared to May's 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days. For more detailed insights on April weather, you can visit North weather in April.
May and June exhibit a gradual warming trend, with June showcasing higher average temperatures and increased precipitation. In May, the temperature ranges from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging around 23°C (74°F), while June sees temperatures starting from 13°C (56°F) and peaking at 39°C (102°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). Additionally, June experiences more rainfall, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days compared to May's 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days. Despite the increase in precipitation, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 75%. For more details, check out North weather in June.
May and July present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cooler minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a warm average of 23°C (74°F), with a maximum reaching 38°C (101°F). The month experiences around 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days, along with a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, July is notably warmer with minimum temperatures of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), while still peaking at 38°C (101°F). However, it sees increased rainfall at 157 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days and slightly higher humidity at 80%. For more details on July weather, you can refer to North weather in July.
In comparing the weather of May and August, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). This month experiences 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days, and the humidity stands at 75%. Conversely, August shows a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 16°C (62°F) and peaking at 36°C (98°F), averaging 27°C (81°F). The precipitation increases to 148 mm (5.8 in) across 18 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 81%. The transition between these months highlights the rise in temperature and humidity, along with increased rainfall. For more detailed insights, you can visit North weather in August.
When comparing the weather in May and September, both months exhibit warm average temperatures, with May having an average of 23°C (74°F) and September slightly warmer at 25°C (78°F). May sees a wider range in temperature, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 38°C (101°F), while September's temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F). In terms of precipitation, both months experience similar rainfall patterns, with May receiving 104 mm (4.1 in) and September slightly less at 95 mm (3.7 in), both over about nine days. Notably, September tends to feel more humid, with a humidity level of 83%, compared to May's 75%. For more details on September weather, check out North weather in September.
When comparing May and October weather, one can observe notable differences in temperatures and precipitation patterns. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums at 6°C (43°F) and maximums reaching up to 38°C (101°F), while October has slightly cooler temperatures with minimums of 1°C (35°F) and maximums peaking at 37°C (100°F). In terms of precipitation, May receives more rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over about 9 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days. Additionally, humidity levels in October are slightly higher at 78%, compared to 75% in May. For more insights into weather conditions, particularly in the North during October, you can visit North weather in October.
May typically presents a warmer climate compared to November, with average temperatures ranging from 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F). The month experiences an average temperature of 23°C (74°F) and brings about 104 mm (4.1 inches) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, along with a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, November sees a significant drop in temperature, with lows reaching -3°C (27°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). Precipitation decreases to 62 mm (2.4 inches) over 7 days, and humidity rises slightly to 85%. These variations clearly highlight the transition from warmer to cooler weather as the year progresses. For more detailed information, you can visit North weather in November.
In May, the weather is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F). The month experiences moderate rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over about 9 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 75%. In contrast, December sees much cooler temperatures, ranging from -6°C (22°F) to 27°C (81°F), with an average of only 11°C (52°F). This month has slightly higher precipitation at 128 mm (5.1 in) over around 10 days and increased humidity at 87%. For more details about weather conditions, you can check North weather in December.
As we embrace May in North, the weather becomes an intriguing blend of warmth and humidity. With temperatures reaching their peak, this month distinctly contrasts with the cooler spring months, offering a delightful average that invites outdoor activities. However, it’s also a time marked by increased precipitation, with several rainy days contributing to the lush landscape. This combination of warmth and moisture not only sets May apart but also heralds the approach of summer. As you prepare for your next adventure, be sure to explore more about the region's climate through this useful resource: North Climate.