May Weather in Houston, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Houston, Texas brings a blend of warmth and moisture, marking the transition into summer. The maximum temperature reaches a sizzling 34°C (93°F), contributing to an average of 25°C (77°F) that invites residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. However, the weather is also accompanied by an average of 16 days of precipitation, accumulating to 176 mm (6.9 in), creating a lush, green landscape. With a humidity level of 79%, the atmosphere can feel quite muggy, reminding everyone that the Gulf Coast's charm often comes with a bit of tropical flair. Whether basking in the sun or navigating the occasional rain shower, May in Houston truly embodies the dynamic spirit of spring in the south.

May Temperature in Houston

In May, Houston experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures reflecting a notable increase compared to the earlier spring months. The minimum temperature averages around 11°C (51°F), providing a comfortable start to the day, while the average temperature rises to a pleasant 25°C (77°F). As the month progresses, residents can expect maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (93°F), setting the stage for the sultry summer that follows. This gradual warming trend from April's 21°C average (70°F) indicates a clear shift, making May a vibrant time of year where the city starts to buzz with outdoor activities and events, fully embracing the impending summer warmth.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Houston, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec555866707782838380726258
Data source: Temperature data for Houston 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 Houston

May heralds a notable shift in Houston's weather, as the city experiences its highest precipitation of the year with 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain falling over 16 days. This spike not only surpasses the preceding months but also sets a pattern that continues into the summer, with June and August closely following. The increased rainfall in May often signifies the transition into the wet season, contributing to lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes. Coupled with an average of over half the month featuring rain, May serves as a critical precursor to Houston's summer storms, underlining the region's dynamic climate and its propensity for quick shifts in weather patterns.

May Precipitation Trends in Houston

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Houston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9295879417617114620120210482111
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Houston

As spring transitions into summer, May in Houston maintains a high humidity level of 79%, consistent with the preceding months of February and April. This relatively stable humidity suggests that while the weather begins to warm, residents can still expect a muggy atmosphere typical of the region. Notably, this marks a slight decrease compared to the peak winter months, where humidity reached as high as 84% in December. Looking ahead, June promises a further dip to 74%, hinting at the gradual onset of the sweltering summer ahead. Overall, May's humidity sets the stage for a lush, green environment, even as the promise of hotter days looms just around the corner.

May Average Humidity in Houston

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Houston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec78%81%76%79%79%74%72%68%73%75%78%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Houston

As spring unfolds into May in Houston, the UV Index remains at a striking 11, categorized as extreme. This marks a continuation of the intense UV levels that began in April, emphasizing the importance of sun safety during this time. With burn times dropping to just 10 minutes, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to take protective measures against potential skin damage. As the season progresses, the trend of high UV exposure persists, culminating in an even higher index in June and July. For detailed insights and the latest UV data, explore Houston UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Houston for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Houston 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec589111112121110975
Data source: Houston 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 Houston

May shines brightly in Houston, basking in 310 hours of glorious sunshine, making it a standout month in the city's climatic calendar. Following the steady increase from 273 hours in April, the energy of May is palpable, as daylight extends and outdoor activities flourish. This upswing in sunlight is a precursor to the summer months, where June and July peak at 317 and 328 hours, respectively. The gradual transition from spring to summer not only enhances the vibrancy of May but also sets the tone for the warmer days ahead, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the great outdoors before the sweltering heat of high summer settles in.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Houston: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Houston 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec173h169h255h273h310h317h328h322h278h280h253h223h
Data source: Houston May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Houston During May

May in Houston is characterized by a noteworthy decline in sunny weather, with a 29% chance of clear skies. This trend marks a departure from the sunnier months of earlier spring; April boasts a 40% chance, while March hovers at 45%. As summer approaches, the likelihood of sunshine further decreases in June and July, reaching as low as 26% in the peak heat of July. Interestingly, the city experiences a gradual resurgence in sunny days as autumn rolls in, with September and October showing a more favorable 47% and 51% chance, respectively. This cyclical pattern underscores Houston's dynamic weather, where early spring offers more sun before the summer heat turns the skies overcast.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Houston

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Houston 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 Houston experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%34%45%40%29%34%26%28%47%51%57%28%
Data source: Houston May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Houston in May

In Houston, United States, the evolution of daylight duration throughout the year reveals a vibrant and sunny May, where residents enjoy 13 hours of daylight. This increase follows a gradual ascent from 10 hours in January to a peak of 14 hours in June, reflecting the arrival of warmer weather and longer days. As spring unfolds, daylight duration rises steadily, offering April the same 12 hours as March. However, May stands out as a transitional phase, bridging the shift from the mildness of spring to the heat of summer. After June, daylight begins to taper off slightly, settling back into the 13-hour range for July and August. This rhythmic pattern of daylight not only enhances outdoor activities in May but also signifies the approach of the vibrant summer months ahead.

Average Daylight Hours in Houston for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Houston throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 27m11h 8m12h12h 54m13h 39m14h13h 48m13h 9m12h 17m11h 24m10h 38m10h 15m
Data source: Houston daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Houston

In Houston during the month of May, the average wind speed rests comfortably at 3.8 m/s (9 mph), reflecting a slight decline from the previous spring months. This is typical as the city transitions towards the warmer summer, which brings about a general reduction in wind speeds. Notably, the seasons leading up to May maintain a consistent breeze, with January through April all hovering around or above 4.0 m/s (9 mph). As the sweltering summer months approach, however, Houston experiences a notable decrease, plummeting to a mere 2.1 m/s (5 mph) in July. This trend highlights the seasonal shift in Houston's wind patterns, where May serves as a gentle bridge from spring's moderate breezes to the lusher, calmer days of summer.

Average May Wind Speed in Houston

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Houston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.64.03.94.03.8 m/s2.72.12.22.52.93.03.7
Data source: Houston May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Houston Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather of May and January, we observe significant differences in temperature and precipitation. May experiences much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), and an average of 25°C (77°F). The month brings considerable rainfall, accumulating 176 mm (6.9 in) over approximately 16 days, resulting in a humid environment with an average humidity of 79%.

In contrast, January is notably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a low of -7°C (19°F) to a high of 28°C (83°F), averaging just 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is comparatively lower, at 91 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days, and humidity is slightly less at 78%. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can check Houston weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, it's clear that May is significantly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a mild 25°C (77°F) to a high of 34°C (93°F). In contrast, February remains much cooler, with temperatures varying from a chilly -12°C (11°F) at night to a daytime average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 176 mm (6.9 in) over 16 days, compared to February's 95 mm (3.8 in) spread across 14 days. Interestingly, the humidity levels are quite comparable, with May at 79% and February slightly higher at 81%. For a more detailed look at February weather in Houston, you can visit Houston weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May to that of March, it's evident that May is significantly warmer, with average temperatures soaring to 25°C (77°F) and maximums hitting 34°C (93°F), compared to March's average of 19°C (66°F) and a high of 30°C (87°F). Additionally, May experiences a higher level of humidity at 79%, while March has a slightly lower humidity of 76%. Rainfall also varies, with May seeing 176 mm (6.9 in) over 16 days, making it much wetter than March's 86 mm (3.4 in) across 13 days. For a more detailed overview of March weather specific to Houston, check out Houston weather in March.

When comparing the weather in April and May, it's clear that May brings warmer temperatures, with averages reaching 25°C (77°F) compared to April's 21°C (70°F). The minimum temperature in May is noticeably higher at 11°C (51°F) versus April's 4°C (39°F), and the maximum temperature also peaks in May at 34°C (93°F), compared to 32°C (90°F) in April. However, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 176 mm (6.9 in) over 16 days, whereas April sees only 94 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days. Interestingly, both months maintain the same humidity level at 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Houston weather in April.

In May, the weather features a temperature range from a cool 11°C (51°F) to a warm 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is considerable, totaling 176 mm (6.9 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 79%. In contrast, June experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with lows of 18°C (65°F) and highs reaching 35°C (95°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). Precipitation remains similar at 171 mm (6.7 in) over 17 days, but humidity decreases to 74%. For more details on June's weather in Houston, visit Houston weather in June.

May weather tends to be more variable, with temperatures ranging from a cool minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a warm maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with 176 mm (6.9 in) spread over 16 days and a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, July showcases a marked increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F), an average of 28°C (83°F), and a peak of 37°C (99°F). While July sees slightly less precipitation at 146 mm (5.8 in) over the same number of rainy days, the humidity level drops to 71%. For more detailed information, check out Houston weather in July.

The weather in May and August presents notable differences and characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 176 mm (6.9 in) of precipitation over 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 79%. In contrast, August brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F), an average of 29°C (84°F), and a maximum of 38°C (100°F). While it has slightly more precipitation at 201 mm (7.9 in) over 19 days, the humidity is lower at 68%. For further details on August weather patterns, you can check Houston weather in August.

In comparing the weather between May and September, we see that both months feature warm temperatures, but September tends to be slightly warmer overall. May has an average temperature of 25°C (77°F) with maximum highs reaching 34°C (93°F), while September boasts an average of 27°C (80°F) and a maximum of 37°C (99°F). Additionally, September experiences a modest increase in precipitation, averaging 202 mm (8.0 in) over approximately 15 days, compared to May, which sees 176 mm (6.9 in) over 16 days. Notably, humidity is higher in May at 79%, compared to 73% in September. For a more detailed look, you can check Houston weather in September.

May and October in Houston present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a warm average of 25°C (77°F), peaking at a steamy 34°C (93°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 79% and considerable precipitation, with 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain over 16 days. In contrast, October offers a cooler climate, with minimum temperatures dropping significantly to 2°C (37°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F), while still reaching a maximum of 34°C (93°F). Rainfall is lower at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, and the humidity is slightly less at 75%. For more details on the weather during this month, check out Houston weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather patterns that highlight the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a scorching maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F), along with significant rainfall of 176 mm (6.9 in) spread over 16 days, resulting in high humidity at 79%. In comparison, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Rainfall is also reduced in November, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days, and maintaining a similar humidity level of 78%. The shift from May’s warm, humid conditions to November's cooler, drier climate emphasizes the seasonal changes in this region. For further details, check out Houston weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a scorching maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 176 mm (6.9 in) over about 16 days, contributing to a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, December showcases cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is less frequent, with 111 mm (4.4 in) over just 9 days, and a slightly higher humidity of 84%. For more detailed information about the weather during this month, you can visit Houston weather in December.

Compare Houston's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Houston

As May unfolds in Houston, it brings a tantalizing blend of warmth and humidity that sets it apart from the cooler months. With temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F), May showcases a vibrant transition into summer, contrasting sharply with the briskness of previous months. This period also witnesses a notable uptick in precipitation, with rain gracing the city on 16 days, contributing to the lushness of the landscape. The combination of higher humidity levels at 79% adds a distinctive mugginess that characterizes late spring in the region. For those curious about the climatic nuances throughout the year, more information can be found at Houston Climate.