May Weather in Salt Lake City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In May, Salt Lake City experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 35°C (95°F) to a minimum of -1°C (31°F). The average temperature settles around 15°C (59°F), providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. While the city enjoys longer sunny days, it also receives approximately 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, adding a refreshing touch to the atmosphere. With humidity levels hovering around 62%, May offers a balanced mix of warmth and mildness, making it an ideal time to explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of this captivating region.

May Temperature in Salt Lake City

In Salt Lake City, May marks a notable transition to warmer weather, with temperatures showcasing a significant leap from the lingering chill of early spring. The month begins with a minimum of around -1°C (31°F), but swiftly warms to an average of 15°C (59°F), culminating in peak temperatures that can reach 35°C (95°F). This dramatic rise reflects the city's shift from the frosty depths of winter, where January sees chilling lows of -22°C (-6°F), to the burgeoning warmth of summer. As the days grow longer and sunnier, residents and visitors alike can revel in the invigorating climate, making May an ideal time to explore the great outdoors and enjoy the city’s scenic beauty. The gradual warming trend is evident, as the transition from April's milder averages of 10°C (50°F) sets the stage for a vibrant seasonal change.

May Weather in Salt Lake City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Salt Lake City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec303342495972807767504130
Data source: Temperature data for Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City

In May, Salt Lake City experiences a notable decrease in precipitation, with 50 mm (2.0 in) of rain recorded over 9 days. This marks a decline from the wetter months preceding it, particularly April, which saw 65 mm (2.6 in) spread over the same number of days. As spring transitions towards summer, May's precipitation trends suggest a significant drop, preparing the region for the drier conditions that characterize the upcoming months of June and July, where rainfall dramatically diminishes to 15 mm (0.6 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in) respectively. The moderated showers in May provide a refreshing pause from the earlier heavier rains, allowing the blooming landscape to thrive while hinting at the dry heat on the horizon.

May Precipitation Trends in Salt Lake City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Salt Lake City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec526062655015101634413447
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Salt Lake City

As spring transitions to summer in Salt Lake City, May brings a notable shift in humidity, dropping to 62%—a refreshing change after the higher humidity levels of the earlier months. January and February boast an impressive 91% and 92% humidity, respectively, creating a cozy, albeit damp, winter atmosphere. The gradual decrease continues through March and April as the air begins to dry, reaching 84% and 74% humidity. By May, residents can enjoy the milder climate, an invitation for outdoor activities and basking in the sun without the heavy moisture that characterized the preceding months. This trend of declining humidity persists into the summer, where June and July experience even lower levels at 56% and 44%, making May a perfect prelude to the arid heat that defines Salt Lake City's summer months.

May Average Humidity in Salt Lake City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Salt Lake City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%92%84%75%62%56%44%37%46%67%84%88%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Salt Lake City

As May rolls into Salt Lake City, residents and visitors alike should be prepared for increased sun exposure with a UV Index of 10, categorizing it as very high. This marks a significant rise from the previous months, where the UV Index steadily climbed from a moderate 3 in January to a striking 9 in April. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it's crucial to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. This trend of intensifying UV radiation continues into June, which peaks at an extreme level of 12. Staying informed and vigilant is essential; for more details, visit Salt Lake City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Salt Lake City for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Salt Lake City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101211109643
Data source: Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City

In Salt Lake City, May emerges as a radiant standout in the sunshine department, boasting 360 hours of bright, sunny days. This surge in sunlight marks a significant increase from the 294 hours experienced in April, reflecting the vibrant transition into summer. Following May, June and July continue to bask in their own glow, reaching peaks of 383 and 390 hours respectively. Interestingly, while the sunshine gradually tapers off in August, it still maintains a robust 360 hours, showcasing the region's consistent allure. As the year progresses, hours tend to decline, with November and December seeing considerably fewer hours, lingering around the 200s, but the cherished brightness of May stands out as a beacon of warmth and vitality amidst the changing seasons.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Salt Lake City: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Salt Lake City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec153h200h260h294h360h383h390h360h313h269h216h198h
Data source: Salt Lake City May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Salt Lake City During May

As spring transitions into early summer, Salt Lake City experiences a notable uptick in sunny weather, with May boasting a 59% chance of sunshine. This marks a slight decrease from April's 60%, yet it remains a steady precursor to the sunny days of June, which jumps to 69%. The trend clearly indicates that as the year progresses, residents can look forward to increasing brightness, particularly in the summer months, where August shines the brightest at 78%. Therefore, while May may see a hint of clouds, the month is still a delightful time for outdoor activities, paving the way for sunnier days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Salt Lake City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42%41%50%60%59%69%62%78%77%44%48%41%
Data source: Salt Lake City May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Salt Lake City in May

As spring transitions into summer, Salt Lake City experiences a noticeable increase in daylight duration throughout May, stretching to 14 hours of sunlight. This upward trend begins in January with just 9 hours, gradually gaining momentum as the months progress. By April, the days have lengthened to 13 hours, preparing for the peak daylight of June. The month of May stands out as a significant milestone, marking a delightful balance of light before the slight decrease that comes in July. This rhythm of daylight not only enriches the city's vibrant outdoor life but also signals the approach of summer's warm embrace.

Average Daylight Hours in Salt Lake City for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Salt Lake City throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 37m10h 39m11h 58m13h 19m14h 27m15h 1m14h 42m13h 41m12h 24m11h 3m9h 53m9h 18m
Data source: Salt Lake City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Salt Lake City

In Salt Lake City, May marks a subtle uptick in wind activity, with the average wind speed reaching 2.4 m/s (5 mph). This faint increase from April's average of 2.2 m/s reflects a broader trend, as spring transitions into summer. The gentle breeze serves as a precursor to warmer months ahead, with June recording the highest average of 2.5 m/s. Interestingly, the late spring winds remain modest compared to the late summer's chill, showcasing a unique rhythm in the city’s climate. Overall, the month of May captures the essence of spring—a time when the winds carry a hint of warmth and anticipation, promising the vibrant summer rolls that lie just ahead.

Average May Wind Speed in Salt Lake City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Salt Lake City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.02.12.32.22.4 m/s2.52.12.32.32.31.82.5
Data source: Salt Lake City May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Salt Lake City Compares to Other Months

The weather in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In May, temperatures in Salt Lake City fluctuate from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month typically sees moderate precipitation, around 50 mm (2.0 in), over about 9 days, and humidity levels hover around 62%. In stark contrast, January experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -22°C (-6°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F). Although January has a similar precipitation level at 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, it is characterized by much higher humidity at 91%. For more detailed insights into the winter climate, check out Salt Lake City weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, significant differences are evident. May typically enjoys much milder temperatures, with an average of 15°C (59°F) and a high reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while February is marked by cold temperatures, averaging only 1°C (34°F) and dipping as low as -20°C (-4°F). Despite having slightly more precipitation in February (60 mm or 2.4 in), it falls on about the same number of days (10) as in May (50 mm or 2.0 in over 9 days). Furthermore, February is characterized by high humidity at 92%, compared to May’s more moderate 62%. For those looking for more specific details, you can check out Salt Lake City weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, the differences are quite pronounced. May typically experiences much milder temperatures, with averages reaching around 15°C (59°F) and maximums peaking at 35°C (95°F). In contrast, March is significantly colder, with average temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and maximums only reaching 26°C (78°F). Precipitation levels are also slightly higher in March, with 61 mm (2.4 in) falling over about 10 days, compared to May's 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. Additionally, March tends to have higher humidity at 84%, compared to May’s more comfortable 62%. For more detailed information, you can check Salt Lake City weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, May tends to be warmer with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while April's average temperature is cooler at 10°C (50°F), with a maximum of 28°C (82°F). April also experiences slightly more precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days compared to May's 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in April at 74%, compared to 62% in May. For a detailed look at April weather, you can check out Salt Lake City weather in April.

May and June showcase notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range significantly from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a hot 35°C (95°F). This month also experiences a higher level of precipitation, with about 50 mm (2.0 in) falling over 9 days, alongside a humidity level of 62%. In contrast, June brings a milder yet warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and soaring up to a maximum of 39°C (103°F). The arrival of summer is marked by a notable decrease in precipitation, totaling just 15 mm (0.6 in) over only 2 days and slightly lower humidity at 56%. For a more detailed overview, check out Salt Lake City weather in June.

May and July present significantly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a warm 35°C (95°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). The month sees around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, contributing to a humidity level of 62%. Conversely, July boasts a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and maximums reaching up to 39°C (102°F). The average temperature in July is a more comfortable 27°C (81°F), and it experiences minimal precipitation of just 10 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days, leading to a lower humidity of 44%. For further details, you can check Salt Lake City weather in July.

In comparing the weather between May and August, May offers a wider range of temperatures, with minimums dropping to -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while August is generally warmer, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and maximums peaking at 39°C (103°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 50 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 9 days, compared to August’s drier conditions, which see only 16 mm (0.6 in) over 2 days. The humidity levels also differ significantly, with May's average humidity at 62% and August dropping to 37%. For more detailed insights, check Salt Lake City weather in August.

May and September offer distinct weather experiences, reflecting the transition between spring and fall. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over nine days, coupled with relatively high humidity at 62%. In contrast, September sees slightly warmer average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 36°C (98°F), with an average of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is less frequent in September, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) over just four days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 46%. For more detailed insights, you can explore the Salt Lake City weather in September.

In May, temperatures in Salt Lake City range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a warm 35°C (95°F) during the day, creating a significant contrast that results in an average of 15°C (59°F). The month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, with humidity averaging around 62%. In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 10°C (50°F). This month brings slightly less rainfall, totaling 41 mm (1.6 in) over 6 days, and humidity levels rise to 67%. For more details on October's weather, visit Salt Lake City weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F) and relatively moderate humidity at 62%. The month sees around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, November experiences a more frigid climate, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and rising to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging just 5°C (41°F). This month is also characterized by higher humidity levels at 84%, accompanied by less precipitation, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) over 6 days. For a deeper look into how November weather unfolds, you can refer to Salt Lake City weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is moderate at 50 mm (2.0 in), spread over about 9 rainy days, and humidity sits at 62%. Conversely, December is much colder, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F); the maximum only reaches 15°C (59°F). While precipitation is slightly lower at 47 mm (1.8 in) over about 10 days, the humidity is significantly higher at 88%. For more details, check out Salt Lake City weather in December.

Compare Salt Lake City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Salt Lake City

As spring deepens in Salt Lake City, May introduces a delightful contrast to the chillier months that preceded it. Temperatures climb significantly, making outdoor activities more enjoyable as residents bask in the warmth of the sun, yet the range can still dip into cooler territory at night. This month generally experiences more precipitation than the dry summer days ahead, with occasional rain showers refreshing the landscape. The average humidity adds a touch of mugginess but is nowhere near the extremes of summer, providing a comfortable atmosphere for exploring the city’s attractions. For those curious about how these weather patterns fit into the yearly climate, check out Salt Lake City Climate.