May Weather in Virginia Beach, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Virginia Beach awakens with a delightful blend of warm temperatures and sea breezes. With maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F) and an average of 20°C (67°F), the month offers a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. However, the weather can be unpredictable, as evidenced by 114 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall spread over 11 days, contributing to an 80% humidity level. This combination of warmth and occasional showers creates a lush, vibrant environment, making May an ideal time to explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities Virginia Beach has to offer.

May Temperature in Virginia Beach

In May, Virginia Beach begins to truly embrace the warmth of spring, with temperatures rising significantly as the month progresses. The minimum temperature settles around 7°C (45°F), providing a refreshing start to the month, while afternoons bask in an average of 20°C (67°F), perfect for outdoor activities. The warmth peaks with maximum temperatures reaching 33°C (91°F), encouraging residents and visitors alike to head to the beach and soak up the sun. This upward trend from the cooler months indicates a delightful transition into summer, making May a vibrant time for both relaxation and adventure in this coastal gem.

May Weather in Virginia Beach: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Virginia Beach, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434650596775807975675448
Data source: Temperature data for Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach

May brings a notable uptick in precipitation for Virginia Beach, with average rainfall reaching 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days. This marks a slight increase compared to previous months, aligning with the gradual rise in precipitation seen since earlier in the year. As the transition into late spring unfolds, the region experiences its wettest month so far, setting the stage for the lush growth of summer. This trend continues into June, highlighting May as a crucial period for replenishing the area's natural resources. With the combination of frequent showers and longer days, May not only nurtures the vibrant landscapes but also serves as a reminder of the region's unique climatic rhythms.

May Precipitation Trends in Virginia Beach

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Virginia Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10011080901141101301521219587101
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Virginia Beach

As spring transitions into summer, May in Virginia Beach welcomes a slight dip in humidity, settling at 80%. This reduction signifies a gradual easing from the high moisture levels of winter, which hovered around 84% in January and November. Although May is notably less humid than the early months of the year, it still retains a tropical feel, setting the stage for the impending summer months, where humidity begins to creep back up, peaking in the warmer season. Overall, the trend shows a slow yet steady decline through spring, providing a brief respite before the humidity rises again in the heat of June and July.

May Average Humidity in Virginia Beach

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Virginia Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%83%82%81%80%82%81%81%78%80%84%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Virginia Beach

As spring transitions to summer in Virginia Beach, the UV Index sees a noticeable rise, peaking at 10 in both May and June. This places May in the very high exposure category, reflecting a significant increase from earlier months: January's moderate 3 and even April's 9. With a burn time of just 15 minutes in May, sun safety becomes crucial as outdoor activities ramp up. Notably, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the summer, with July reaching an extreme level of 11, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during these months. For more details on daily UV levels, visit Virginia Beach UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Virginia Beach for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Virginia Beach 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101011109853
Data source: Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach

As spring gives way to summer, May in Virginia Beach shines brightly with an impressive 322 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for the warmer months ahead. This month marks a peak in sunny days, following a gradual increase from 165 hours in January. The trend is clear: each passing month brings more sunshine, culminating in the summer's zenith in July with 352 hours. The delightful weather not only enhances the natural beauty of the coastline but also invites residents and visitors alike to bask in the vibrant atmosphere, making May a particularly enchanting time to experience Virginia Beach. As the days lengthen and the sun shines more brightly, the anticipation for summer adventures grows, solidifying May's reputation as a month of optimism and warmth.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Virginia Beach: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Virginia Beach 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec165h189h266h298h322h332h352h335h293h261h227h201h
Data source: Virginia Beach May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Virginia Beach During May

As spring unfolds in Virginia Beach, May emerges as a month with a 49% chance of sunny weather, sitting comfortably between the higher averages of April at 55% and the cooler, cloudier months of June and July, which drop to 37% and 47%, respectively. This slight dip in sunny days from the previous month hints at an impending transition toward the summer seasons, where September offers a delightful 59% sunshine likelihood, showcasing the region's scenic charm. Overall, while May presents a balanced opportunity for sunny days, the lingering spring warmth and the approaching summer invite residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities in the beautiful Virginia Beach sunshine.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Virginia Beach

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%33%43%55%49%37%47%48%59%44%58%44%
Data source: Virginia Beach May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Virginia Beach in May

As spring transitions into summer in Virginia Beach, the duration of daylight steadily increases, reaching a delightful peak in May with 14 hours of sunlight each day. This month bridges the vibrant energy of April's budding blooms and the warm embrace of June, where the sun shines just as long. The progression through the year paints a clear picture of the changing seasons: January begins with a modest 9 hours of daylight, as it gradually climbs to 11 in March and then jumps to 13 in April. The longer days of May set the stage for summer adventures, before the daylight begins to wane again in the autumn months, illustrating the rhythm of nature’s cycle in this charming coastal city. By the time November arrives, daylight is down to 10 hours, reminding residents of the cyclical dance between light and darkness.

Average Daylight Hours in Virginia Beach for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Virginia Beach throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 56m10h 50m11h 59m13h 9m14h 8m14h 37m14h 21m13h 29m12h 21m11h 11m10h 10m9h 39m
Data source: Virginia Beach daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Virginia Beach

In May, Virginia Beach experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.1 m/s (9 mph), slightly tapering off from the spring highs of earlier months. The winds in this month reflect a broader trend of gradual decline as summer approaches; while January to April sees consistent speeds around 4.5 to 5.3 m/s, the transition to late spring releases a breath of softer air. This seasonal shift not only brings warmer temperatures but also lowers the winds, setting the stage for a more tranquil coastal experience as visitors and locals alike enjoy the beachside scenery. As the summer months roll in, wind speeds continue to drop further, reaching their lowest around August. However, the pleasant May gusts remain ideal for outdoor activities, particularly along the stunning Virginia coastline.

Average May Wind Speed in Virginia Beach

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Virginia Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.55.34.84.64.1 m/s3.83.73.14.04.54.94.2
Data source: Virginia Beach May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Virginia Beach Compares to Other Months

The weather in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a warm average of 20°C (67°F), peaking at 33°C (91°F), accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 80% and 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days. In contrast, January is characterized by much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -10°C (14°F) to an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Despite experiencing slightly less precipitation at 100 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, January’s humidity level remains higher at 84%. For more specific details on January conditions, you can check Virginia Beach weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge. May experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with averages around 20°C (67°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F). In contrast, February is much cooler, with average temperatures around 8°C (47°F) and maximums of just 20°C (69°F). Both months see similar amounts of precipitation, with May receiving 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days and February slightly less at 110 mm (4.3 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, but February is slightly more humid at 83% compared to May's 80%. For more detailed insights on February weather, you can check Virginia Beach weather in February.

May and March present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging around 20°C (67°F), while March offers cooler weather with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging only 10°C (50°F). Precipitation levels are higher in May, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days, compared to 80 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days in March. Interestingly, humidity remains fairly consistent, with May at 80% and March slightly higher at 82%. For more details on March weather, check out Virginia Beach weather in March.

When comparing the weather in April and May, May generally experiences warmer temperatures with an average of 20°C (67°F) compared to April's 15°C (59°F). The maximum temperature in May can reach 33°C (91°F), whereas April peaks at 28°C (82°F), showcasing a distinct warming trend as spring transitions into summer. Precipitation is slightly higher in May, with 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days, compared to April's 90 mm (3.6 in) over 10 days, and humidity remains fairly consistent, averaging around 80% in May and 81% in April. For more detailed insights into April weather, you can visit Virginia Beach weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, both months feature a similar range of maximum temperatures, with June reaching up to 33°C (92°F) just like May. However, June generally sees higher minimum temperatures, starting at 14°C (58°F) compared to May's 7°C (45°F), which contributes to a warmer average temperature of 24°C (75°F) in June versus 20°C (67°F) in May. Precipitation levels are slightly lower in June at 110 mm (4.3 in), but the number of rainy days increases to 12 compared to 11 days in May. Humidity remains relatively high, with June at 82% and May at 80%. For more specific insights on June weather, you can visit Virginia Beach weather in June.

May and July in Virginia Beach present contrasting weather experiences, showcasing the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (67°F). The month typically experiences 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, along with a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F), reaching up to 35°C (95°F). This month receives slightly more precipitation at 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 81%. For more specific details on the weather trends, you can check Virginia Beach weather in July.

In comparing the weather between May and August, May tends to experience a wider temperature range with minimums dipping down to 7°C (45°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F), while August is noticeably warmer with minimums starting at 20°C (68°F) and averaging 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is more frequent in August, accumulating to 152 mm (6.0 in) over 16 days, compared to May’s 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days. Both months share similar humidity levels, with May at 80% and August slightly higher at 81%. For more detailed insights on conditions in August, check out Virginia Beach weather in August.

May and September present distinct weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a cool 7°C (45°F) to a warm high of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 20°C (67°F). The month sees about 114 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall over 11 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 80%. In contrast, September boasts milder minimum temperatures at 15°C (58°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Rainfall is slightly higher, reaching 121 mm (4.8 in) over 12 days, while humidity is marginally lower at 78%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Virginia Beach weather in September.

May and October present a fairly similar climate, though subtle differences can be noted. In May, temperatures range more dramatically with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), while October maintains a slightly narrower range, with minimums at 8°C (47°F) and maximums around 30°C (86°F). Precipitation levels in May are a bit higher, averaging 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days compared to October's 95 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level at 80%. For more detailed insights, check out Virginia Beach weather in October.

In May, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 20°C (67°F). This month also experiences a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) across about 11 days, combined with high humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, November sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 25°C (78°F). The rainfall is slightly less in November at 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 9 days, though humidity remains high at 84%. For more detailed information about the weather in November, you can check Virginia Beach weather in November.

May offers warmer temperatures compared to December, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and featuring an average temperature of 20°C (67°F). Despite the increased warmth, May experiences more rainfall, with about 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days. In contrast, December's temperatures are much cooler, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Rainfall in December totals around 101 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, coupled with slightly higher humidity at 84%. For more details, you can check Virginia Beach weather in December.

Compare Virginia Beach's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Virginia Beach

As the vibrant month of May unfolds in Virginia Beach, the weather begins to transition, offering warmer temperatures and lush greenery that starkly contrasts with the cooler, more rigid months of winter. Days can heat up to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), creating inviting conditions for outdoor activities, while the average temperatures hover around a comfortable 20°C (67°F). However, the typical May weather may surprise you with 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation, reminding us that a few drizzly days are still a part of this dynamic spring narrative. With humidity levels around 80%, the air retains a tropical feel, markedly different from the drier months before. For a more in-depth look at the climatic nuances of the season, visit Virginia Beach Climate.