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May Weather in Knoxville, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Knoxville, United States, the average temperature in May typically hovers around 21°C (69°F). However, be prepared for a range—temperatures can drop to a chilly 2°C (36°F) and soar up to a warm 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is expected, with an average precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) spread over 12 days. Additionally, the average humidity level is a comfortable 85%, making for a pleasantly tropical atmosphere.

May Temperature in Knoxville

In May in Knoxville, the average temperature is 21°C (69°F). The maximum can reach 33°C (91°F), and the minimum can be as low as 2°C (36°F). This diverse range of temperatures makes it essential for travelers to pack clothing suitable for both warm and cooler conditions.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Knoxville, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Knoxville, May typically has an average temperature of 21°C (69°F), with highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F) and lows dropping to around 2°C (36°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414652596975797773634945
Data source: Temperature data for Knoxville generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Knoxville

In Knoxville in May, the precipitation amount is 106 mm (4.2 in), occurring over a span of 12 days.

May Precipitation Trends in Knoxville

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Knoxville, 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. In Knoxville, May typically receives around 106 mm (4.2 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 12 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec981721551321061121201269111679132
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Knoxville

In Knoxville in May humidity is 85%. With an average temperature of 21°C (69°F), this humidity feels like a heavy blanket wrapping around you, making even the simplest outdoor activities feel exhausting and sticky, which can be quite challenging for traveling.

May Average Humidity in Knoxville

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Knoxville, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Knoxville is approximately 85%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%86%86%82%85%85%83%76%76%80%88%88%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Knoxville

In Knoxville in May, the maximum UV index reaches 11, which corresponds to an extreme Exposure Category. With a time to burn of just 10 minutes, it's essential to take precautions. For more details, you can check the Hourly UV Index in Knoxville.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Knoxville for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Knoxville 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. In May, the maximum UV index in Knoxville typically reaches 11, which falls under the extreme exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec36810111111109753
Data source: Knoxville 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.

How May Weather in Knoxville Compares to Other Months

Weather in Knoxville varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Knoxville, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Knoxville, showing how May’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather5°C (41°F)98 mm (3.9 inches)86%moderate
February Weather8°C (46°F)172 mm (6.8 inches)86%high
March Weather11°C (52°F)155 mm (6.1 inches)86%very high
April Weather15°C (59°F)132 mm (5.2 inches)82%very high
May Weather21°C (69°F)106 mm (4.2 inches)85%extreme
June Weather24°C (75°F)112 mm (4.4 inches)85%extreme
July Weather26°C (79°F)120 mm (4.7 inches)83%extreme
August Weather25°C (78°F)126 mm (5.0 inches)76%very high
September Weather23°C (74°F)91 mm (3.6 inches)76%very high
October Weather17°C (63°F)116 mm (4.6 inches)80%high
November Weather9°C (49°F)79 mm (3.1 inches)88%moderate
December Weather7°C (45°F)132 mm (5.2 inches)88%moderate

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