Last updated: February 24, 2025
Chattanooga, United States, experiences a vibrant May with maximum temperatures reaching 34°C (93°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), providing a warm and pleasant atmosphere. While the minimum temperature dips to 4°C (39°F), it's the humidity, averaging 83%, that defines the month, adding a tropical feel to the air. However, residents should be prepared for 10 days of rainfall, accumulating to 96 mm (3.8 in), creating a lush backdrop for the burgeoning greenery that May brings. With its combination of warmth and occasional showers, Chattanooga in May offers both challenges and charms to those who venture outdoors.
In May, Chattanooga experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, marked by a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) and a comfortable average of 21°C (70°F). As spring fully blossoms, residents enjoy highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F), showcasing the city's shift from the chilly winter months to the warm and inviting temperatures of early summer. This month stands out as part of a clear upward trend in temperatures, from the brisk beginnings of the year, with January's average hovering around 6°C (43°F), to the pleasant warmth of May. With each passing month, the gradual increase is palpable, setting the stage for the heat of June and July. May's mild yet warm climate invites outdoor activities, making it a popular time for hiking, picnics, and enjoying Chattanooga's vibrant parks.
In May, Chattanooga experiences a slight dip in precipitation, receiving 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain over 10 days. This is notably less than the preceding months of February, March, and April, which saw heavier rainfall averaging between 156 mm and 171 mm. As spring transitions into early summer, the overall trend reveals a gradual decrease in precipitation from April to May, indicating a shift towards drier conditions. Despite this, the consistency of 10 rainy days mirrors the pattern of earlier months, suggesting that while the total amount may lessen, the frequency of rain remains steady, providing the city with essential moisture as it prepares for the approaching summer heat.
In Chattanooga, the month of May experiences a slight dip in humidity, averaging around 83%, following a steady decline from the January to April months when humidity levels hover above 85%. This trend reflects a gradual transition into the warmer season, as the air begins to feel a bit less muggy compared to the earlier months of the year. May's humidity is just a touch higher than June's 82%, setting the stage for the summer months, where humidity levels drop further, peaking in August at a more comfortable 67%. Overall, while May retains some of the earlier month's moisture, the downward trajectory hints at the refreshing change that approaches with summer.
As the warmth of May envelops Chattanooga, the UV Index reaches a striking 11, signaling an extreme exposure level. This marks a notable increase from April's 10 and a significant rise from January’s moderate levels. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it’s crucial to take sun safety seriously during this month. The trend indicates a transition to very high and extreme UV levels that persist into June and July, reminding residents and visitors alike of the importance of protection against harmful rays. For more detailed UV Index forecasts, visit Chattanooga UV Index.
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As spring transitions into summer, Chattanooga basks in the warmth of increasing sunshine hours, with May shining particularly bright. The city enjoys 302 hours of glorious sunlight, a delightful leap from 265 hours in April and setting the stage for a sun-soaked summer ahead. This upward trend continues into June and July, where residents can soak up even more rays. Interestingly, the sunshine begins to wane in the latter months, tapering to 226 hours in November, reminding us that while summer may shine the brightest, each season brings its own unique charm beneath the skies of Chattanooga.
In Chattanooga, the likelihood of sunny weather tends to fluctuate throughout the year, with May experiencing a 31% chance of sunshine. This marks a dip compared to the preceding April, which enjoys a more favorable 52% chance of clear skies. Interestingly, this lower sunshine probability in May stands in contrast to the historically sunnier months of September (49%) and November (57%), suggesting a trend where the onset of summer doesn't guarantee consistent sunshine. As residents and visitors plan for May, they may want to keep an eye on weather forecasts, as the potential for cloudy or rainy days can impact outdoor activities during this time.
In Chattanooga, the arrival of May signals a delightful increase in daylight, with the city basking in 14 hours of sunlight—one of the longest durations of the year. Following the steady rise from 10 hours in January and February, daylight began to grow significantly in March and April, culminating in the bright and vibrant month of May. This trend continues into June and July, where daylight remains at a generous 14 hours, allowing residents plenty of time to enjoy outdoor activities. However, as summer peaks, daylight gradually begins to wane in August and into the fall months, reminding us of the cyclical nature of the seasons, where sunlight ebbs to 12 hours in September and further decreases through the winter.
In May, Chattanooga experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), continuing the trend of relatively mild winds seen in the preceding months. As spring transitions into summer, the wind patterns have shown a gradual decrease from April's 2.5 m/s (5 mph), suggesting a softening of the breezes that commonly accompany the warming temperatures. This slight decline in wind speed contributes to the overall comfortable atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the lush, blooming landscapes without the distraction of strong gusts. Notably, as the year progresses into the hotter months, the wind speeds tend to taper off, reaching their lowest points in July and August.
The weather in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in May and January, it’s evident that these months present starkly different conditions. May experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with averages around 21°C (70°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F), contrasted with January's much colder average of 6°C (43°F) and potential highs of 24°C (75°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels, with about 96 mm (3.8 in) in May and 99 mm (3.9 in) in January, but January's chill is paired with higher humidity at 87%, compared to May's 83%. The distinct differences in temperature highlight the seasonal shift, making May a more comfortable month conducive to outdoor activities. For a closer look at the temperature variations and conditions, you can check Chattanooga weather in January.
In comparing the weather between May and February, we see notable differences in both temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at a maximum of 34°C (93°F). In contrast, February is considerably cooler, featuring a minimum temperature of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), with a maximum reaching only 26°C (79°F). Additionally, February is wetter, receiving 171 mm (6.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days. Despite this, February also has slightly higher humidity at 87% compared to May's 83%. For more detailed weather information, you can visit Chattanooga weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, it's evident that May tends to be warmer with average temperatures around 21°C (70°F), while March has a lower average of 12°C (54°F). In May, temperatures can peak at 34°C (93°F), a stark contrast to March's maximum of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is more frequent in March, with 169 mm (6.7 in) over 13 days compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in) spread across 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels are similar, with May at 83% and March at 85%, creating a generally muggy atmosphere in both months. For a closer look at March weather, check out Chattanooga weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, May presents a warmer climate with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), while April sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Notably, April experiences higher precipitation levels at 156 mm (6.2 in) compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in), despite both months having rain on approximately 10 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with April at 82% and May slightly higher at 83%. For more details on the weather patterns in April, you can visit Chattanooga weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F). The month experiences 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days, contributing to a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, June sees a higher minimum temperature of 11°C (51°F) and an increased average of 24°C (76°F), retaining a maximum similar to May at 34°C (94°F). Precipitation rises to 120 mm (4.7 in) over 13 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 82%. For more details on June weather, you can visit Chattanooga weather in June.
In May, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 34°C (93°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). The month sees a fair amount of rain, with 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 83%. In contrast, July brings warmer nights, with minimum temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 37°C (98°F), resulting in an average temperature of 26°C (80°F). Precipitation increases slightly, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) across 14 days, although humidity drops to 78%. Overall, July is characterized by more heat and slightly less humidity compared to the variable weather of May. For more detailed weather information, check Chattanooga weather in July.
May weather presents a wider temperature range, with nighttime lows dipping to around 4°C (39°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F), while humidity levels are quite high at 83%. The month experiences an average temperature of 21°C (70°F) and tends to be rainy, with 10 days of precipitation totaling 96 mm (3.8 inches). In contrast, August offers warmer nights, with minimum temperatures around 15°C (60°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F). Highs can soar up to 35°C (96°F), but the overall humidity is lower at 67%. However, August also sees more rain, with 121 mm (4.8 inches) of precipitation over 14 days. For more details on August weather, visit Chattanooga weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 34°C (93°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). The month is characterized by higher humidity at 83%, alongside significant precipitation of 96 mm (3.8 in) on about 10 days.
In contrast, September sees milder nights with a minimum temperature of 9°C (48°F) and warmer days, with a peak of 37°C (98°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). While it receives slightly more rainfall at 106 mm (4.2 in) over just 8 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 64%.
For more detailed insights on the weather in September, you can check Chattanooga weather in September.
May typically brings warm temperatures to the region, with an average of 21°C (70°F) and highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F), while the humidity is quite high at 83%. In contrast, October sees a notable shift in weather, with cooler temperatures average around 18°C (65°F) and lows dipping to -2°C (29°F), alongside the potential for even higher maximums of 37°C (99°F). Precipitation also increases in October, with 133 mm (5.2 in) falling over about 10 days, compared to May's 96 mm (3.8 in). For more details about the weather in October, check out Chattanooga weather in October.
May typically offers warmer temperatures, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and averaging 21°C (70°F), which can peak at 34°C (93°F). In contrast, November experiences cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -6°C (21°F) and an average of just 10°C (50°F), reaching a maximum of 26°C (79°F). While May sees more precipitation with 96 mm (3.8 in) over about 10 days, November has less rain at 72 mm (2.8 in) across 8 days, though the humidity remains slightly higher in November at 87%. For more details on the weather trends, you can check Chattanooga weather in November.
May and December exhibit starkly contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures typically range from a mild 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 34°C (93°F) during the day, with an average of 21°C (70°F). This month experiences substantial rainfall, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity of 83%. In contrast, December brings colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). The month records even higher precipitation, 139 mm (5.5 in), falling over the same number of days, and the humidity is slightly elevated at 88%. For a more detailed look at December weather, you can visit Chattanooga weather in December.
As May unfolds in Chattanooga, the weather becomes a delightful bridge between the cooler spring months and the warmth of summer. With temperatures climbing significantly, residents and visitors can expect a notable increase in warmth and humidity, creating a lush, vibrant atmosphere. Rainfall arrives intermittently, although it is generally manageable, contributing to the season's lush greenery. This month stands out with its pleasant evenings and fuller foliage, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For a more detailed overview of the weather patterns throughout the year, check out the comprehensive insights on Chattanooga Climate.