Last updated: February 24, 2025
In May, Memphis experiences a vibrant transition into summer, with maximum temperatures reaching a steamy 33°C (92°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). While the days are characterized by warmth, cooler evenings see temperatures dipping to a refreshing 5°C (42°F). The month is also marked by significant rainfall, accumulating to 120 mm (4.7 inches) over approximately 11 days, contributing to the high humidity levels of 83%. This blend of warmth and moisture creates a unique atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the lush scenery and lively outdoor activities that Memphis has to offer.
May in Memphis marks a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures showcasing a remarkable rise compared to the earlier months. The minimum temperature begins at a comfortable 5°C (42°F), while the average swells to a pleasant 22°C (72°F), and the maximum reaches a lively 33°C (92°F). This upward trend from the cooler days of Spring provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, family gatherings, and the blossoming of nature in full swing. As the city shakes off the chill of winter and the breezes warm, May invites both residents and visitors to embrace the vibrant atmosphere that Memphis offers.
In May, Memphis experiences a moderate precipitation level, with 120 mm (4.7 in) of rainfall over approximately 11 days. This monthly total reflects a slight decrease from the more substantial rains of March (160 mm) and April (135 mm), establishing a trend where late spring sees diminishing precipitation as the transition to summer unfolds. Interestingly, the consistency in rainfall days from April through May indicates a stable weather pattern, allowing for a balanced blend of sunny and rainy moments. As the month wraps up, the rain sets the stage for the warmer and drier months ahead, illustrating Memphis's dynamic climate.
In May, Memphis experiences a humidity level of 83%, maintaining the trend established in preceding months. This marks a slight increase from the more moderate 81% in April, and it aligns with the consistent humidity levels typically seen in the spring months. As temperatures rise towards summer, the humidity remains relatively high, similar to June's levels. Notably, this early summer pattern often leads to a thick, sultry atmosphere that can make the warmth feel even more intense. As the year progresses, humidity will gradually dip towards late summer, illustrating Memphis’s dynamic yet predictable climatic shifts.
As May rolls into Memphis, residents can expect intensified sun exposure, with the UV Index peaking at a striking 10, placing it in the very high category. This mirrors the trends set in April, with burn times significantly reduced to just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. Such high UV levels signal a shift from the more moderate conditions seen earlier in the year; for instance, January’s UV Index of 3 allowed for longer exposure times without risk. With the sun increasingly blazing, it's crucial to stay vigilant and protect your skin as the summer months approach, especially with June edging even higher to an extreme level. Stay informed and plan accordingly by checking out detailed forecasts at Memphis UV Index.
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As May unfolds in Memphis, the city basks in a stunning 305 hours of sunshine, marking a vibrant peak in daylight compared to the earlier months. This month not only reflects a significant leap from the 260 hours of April but also sets the stage for the sunniest months ahead, with June and July reaching even greater heights at 319 and 345 hours, respectively. The gradual climb in sunshine hours from the winter's 142 hours in January to the blossoming warmth of May indicates the arrival of summer and a delightful increase in outdoor activities. Residents and visitors alike can revel in the ample sunlight, making May a perfect time to explore the city's parks, festivals, and riverside attractions under the glorious Memphis sky.
In Memphis during the month of May, the likelihood of sunny weather is relatively low at 32%, which is a notable dip from the previous month's 53%. This trend reflects a typical spring pattern, where the increasing warmth and humidity often lead to cloudier skies and a higher chance of rain. As summer approaches, the chance of sunshine gradually recovers, peaking in the fall months when September rises to a more optimistic 60%. Overall, while May can still offer enjoyable sunny days, it's wise to anticipate some variability in the weather as the season transitions.
In May, Memphis basks in 14 hours of daylight, marking a significant leap from the 10 hours provided in the colder months of January and February. This month signals the height of spring, where the steadily increasing daylight culminates in longer, sun-soaked days that extend into early summer. Following April's 13 hours, May not only enhances outdoor activities but also enriches the local environment, as vibrant flora reaches its peak. As daylight begins to decrease slightly in June and July, May stands out as a prime time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the city's blossoming parks and warm evenings. The gradual progression from 10 hours in winter to a sunny 14 hours reveals Memphis's rhythmic transition through the seasons, inviting all to savor the longer days before the slow return of shorter daylight in the fall.
In Memphis, the month of May brings a gentle breath of air, with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), matching the lighter winds of April. This serene wind pattern suggests a transition into the warmer months as spring fully unfolds. Interestingly, May's winds are part of a downward trend from the slightly higher speeds of late winter and early spring, with January to March averaging between 3.4 m/s to 3.6 m/s. Following May, the winds continue to soften through the summer, with June and July recording the year's calmest breezes. Thus, while May stands out for its comfortable conditions, it also signals the arrival of a more tranquil summer atmosphere in the heart of Tennessee.
The weather in Memphis 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 Memphis and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present strikingly different weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a cool 5°C (42°F) to a warm 33°C (92°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F), making it a vibrant month characterized by more comfortable warmth. However, May also sees about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to its high humidity of 83%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -18°C (1°F) and peaking at 23°C (73°F), averaging just 5°C (42°F). This winter month typically experiences slightly lower precipitation of 103 mm (4.0 in) across 8 days and maintains a humidity level of 84%. To learn more about January weather specifics, check out Memphis weather in January.
May and February showcase stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures rise significantly with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and a maximum reaching up to 33°C (92°F). This month generally sees 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, maintaining a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, February features much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (-1°F), an average of 7°C (46°F), and a maximum of 26°C (78°F). Although February has a higher precipitation total of 170 mm (6.7 in) across 14 days, it maintains the same humidity level of 83%. For more details, you can check Memphis weather in February.
The weather in May is significantly warmer than in March, with average temperatures rising from 13°C (55°F) in March to a pleasant 22°C (72°F) in May. While March experiences a chilly minimum temperature of -7°C (19°F), May's temperatures comfortably start at a minimum of 5°C (42°F). Additionally, May sees a decrease in precipitation days, with rain falling on 11 days and totaling 120 mm (4.7 in), compared to March's wetter conditions with 160 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with May at 83% and March at 81%. For more details, you can visit Memphis weather in March.
Comparing the weather in April and May highlights a clear transition from cool to warmer temperatures. April experiences a minimum temperature of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while May sees a more comfortable minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). Additionally, although April has a higher maximum temperature of 30°C (87°F), May boasts even warmer days, reaching up to 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is slightly less in May at 120 mm (4.7 in) compared to April's 135 mm (5.3 in), with both months seeing around 11 days of rain. Humidity levels remain similar, with May at 83% and April slightly lower at 81%. For those interested in more specific details, you can view Memphis weather in April.
May and June exhibit notable changes in weather patterns, with June generally being warmer and slightly wetter. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (42°F) at night to a pleasant average of 22°C (72°F) during the day, peaking at 33°C (92°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 120 mm (4.7 in) over about 11 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, June enjoys milder lows of 13°C (55°F) and an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), reaching up to a maximum of 35°C (95°F). With almost similar precipitation at 118 mm (4.6 in) also spread over 11 days and maintaining the same humidity level, June offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. For more detailed information on June weather, you can visit Memphis weather in June.
May and July exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 83%. In contrast, July boasts warmer temperatures, starting at a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and peaking at 35°C (95°F), with an average of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation remains similar, with 124 mm (4.9 in) over the same number of days, but humidity slightly decreases to 81%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can check Memphis weather in July.
When comparing the weather in May and August, notable differences in temperature and humidity become apparent. May sees cooler conditions, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), along with relatively high humidity at 83%. It experiences significant precipitation, accumulating 120 mm (4.7 inches) over approximately 11 days. In contrast, August is warmer, with temperatures ranging from 16°C (62°F) to 36°C (96°F) and lower humidity levels at 74%. Precipitation is also slightly less, totaling 102 mm (4.0 inches) over the same number of days. For more details, you can check Memphis weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cooler minimum of 5°C (42°F) to an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (92°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 83%. This month is characterized by significant rainfall, with 120 mm (4.7 inches) falling over 11 days. In contrast, September features milder conditions, starting with a higher minimum temperature of 10°C (51°F) and averaging 24°C (76°F), while reaching a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Rainfall decreases to 86 mm (3.4 inches) spread over just 7 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 71%. For more insights into September weather, check out Memphis weather in September.
May and October present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). It experiences a notable amount of precipitation at 120 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 83%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (31°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). The month has slightly less precipitation at 113 mm (4.4 in) over about 8 days and lower humidity at 76%. For more details on the climate, you can explore Memphis weather in October.
May and November present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant 5°C (42°F) at night to a scorching 33°C (92°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences about 120 mm (4.7 in) of rainfall over 11 days, and humidity hovers around 83%, creating a warm and often sticky atmosphere. In contrast, November sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging just 10°C (51°F). Rainfall decreases to 78 mm (3.1 in) over 8 days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 84%. The notable shift in temperature and precipitation highlights the transition from spring's warmth to the chill of late autumn. For more insights, you can check out Memphis weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a mild 5°C (42°F) at night to a warm 33°C (92°F) during the day, with an average of 22°C (72°F). This month experiences around 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, with humidity levels averaging 83%, creating a lush, vibrant atmosphere. In contrast, December brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows plunging to -10°C (15°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 25°C (78°F), while averaging 8°C (47°F). Although it receives slightly more precipitation at 147 mm (5.8 in) over 10 days, the humidity rises to 88%, adding to the winter chill. For those looking for a deeper understanding of the December climate, you can reference more details here: Memphis weather in December.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Memphis showcases a delightful blend of warm temperatures and vibrant humidity, setting it apart from the cooler months earlier in the year. With average highs climbing to a balmy 33°C (92°F) and an average temperature of 22°C (72°F), residents and visitors alike can revel in the pleasant weather. However, May also brings its share of rain, with about 11 rainy days contributing to a total precipitation of 120 mm (4.7 in), ensuring the lush landscapes continue to thrive. While the humidity levels peak at a notable 83%, the overall climate creates a refreshing and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect time to explore all that the city has to offer. For more insights on weather trends, visit Memphis Climate.