Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Olympia, United States, unveils a diverse tapestry of weather, combining pleasant warmth with occasional showers. The month boasts a maximum temperature of 29°C (85°F), offering a refreshing contrast to the average of 13°C (56°F) and minimum of 4°C (40°F). While the warmth invites outdoor activities, precipitation is a notable feature, as 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain falls over 9 days, resulting in an atmosphere marked by 84% humidity. This blend of conditions creates the perfect backdrop for the lush greenery the Pacific Northwest is renowned for, making May a dynamic time for residents and visitors alike.
May in Olympia heralds the arrival of warmer days, with temperatures showing a notable increase as the month progresses. The minimum temperature rises to a comfortable 4°C (40°F), while the average settles at a pleasant 13°C (56°F), peaking at a maximum of 29°C (85°F). This transition from the cooler spring months is a delightful segue into summer, as May typically experiences some of the warmest temperatures of the year, highlighting the region's shift toward sunnier weather. Visitors can expect a refreshing change, perfect for outdoor activities, as the landscape bursts into life, making May an inviting time to explore the natural beauty of Olympia.
In May, Olympia experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns as the rain begins to taper off, bringing a respite from the heavy downpours of earlier months. With only 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain recorded over 9 days, it marks a significant decrease from the 197 mm seen in January. This gradual decline continues into June, where precipitation drops further to 51 mm (2.0 in), highlighting a transition towards drier summer months. May’s cooler, wetter prior months give way to sunnier days, inviting residents and visitors to relish the beauty of spring as the city gears up for the drier days ahead. The change not only signals the onset of outdoor activities but also reveals a trend of decreasing rainfall as summer approaches.
In May, Olympia experiences a humidity level of 84%, maintaining a trend of mild moisture that is characteristic of the spring season. This measurement reflects a slight decrease from the 85% and 86% humidity seen in March and February, respectively. As the weather warms and the days lengthen, the humidity begins to settle, aligning with the gradual decline observed in the summer months ahead. Overall, this month marks a transitional period where humidity remains relatively steady while hinting at the drier conditions that characterize the July and August months, which dip to 82% and 73%, respectively. The consistent humidity patterns showcase Olympia's unique climate, where spring blossoms amid moderately humid air, contributing to the region's lush greenery.
As spring gives way to summer in Olympia, May marks a significant increase in UV exposure, with the UV Index reaching 8, classified as very high. This substantial rise from the previous months underscores the importance of sun safety, as the burn time drops dramatically to just 15 minutes. With the warmer days ahead, residents and visitors alike should be mindful of sun protection, as the trends indicate that UV intensity will continue to peak in June and July. Embracing sun-smart practices now will help ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. For more information, check out Olympia UV Index.
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In May, Olympia basks in the glory of 300 hours of sunshine, marking a significant leap from the 231 hours in April. This gradual increase in sunlight reflects the region's transition into summer, setting the stage for the summer months that follow. As daylight hours continue to grow, Olympia experiences nature in full bloom, with vibrant landscapes bathed in warm light. Notably, this month represents a connection point between the more muted winter months and the sun-drenched July, which boasts an impressive 362 hours. This upward trend not only enhances outdoor activities but also blossoms community engagements, making May a delightful precursor to the sunny days of summer that lie ahead.
As we transition into May in Olympia, the likelihood of sunny weather reflects a notable shift in the seasons. With a 34% chance of sunshine, May offers a pleasant improvement over the earlier months, particularly April's 47% peak. Although it falls slightly short of the sun-drenched days that June and July promise, May still embodies the essence of spring, with a delightful mix of mild temperatures and emerging greenery. This month serves as a bridge between the less sunny earlier months and the vibrant summer ahead, hinting at the warmth and brightness that will soon dominate the Pacific Northwest landscape.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Olympia brings a delightful increase in daylight, with an impressive 15 hours illuminating the city each day. Building on the gradual progression from 8 hours in January to 10 hours in February, the sun's presence grows stronger with each passing month—culminating in the lush days of April, which boasts 13 hours of light. This steady climb not only enhances the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest but also invites outdoor activities and gatherings, as residents embrace the warmth and brightness. Following May, daylight remains consistent through June, July, and August, before tapering off into the shorter days of autumn, reminding us to savor every radiant moment.
In May, Olympia experiences an average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), maintaining the calm breezes of the preceding months. This gentle airflow is part of a consistent trend, as the wind speeds during spring months—January through April—hover around similar values, with only minor fluctuations. As spring transitions towards summer, the wind speed remains stable, hinting at a serene atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities. Interestingly, this month’s wind is slightly below the summer average, indicating that while seasonal shifts may bring warmer temperatures, they do not necessarily lead to gustier conditions. Overall, the gentle winds of May keep Olympia's landscape inviting, making it an ideal backdrop for leisurely pursuits and enjoying nature.
The weather in Olympia 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 Olympia and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather patterns, reflective of the changing seasons. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month sees around 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, January experiences much cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (21°F) and peaking at 14°C (57°F), leading to an average of just 5°C (42°F). Precipitation in January is significantly higher, totaling 197 mm (7.8 in) across 16 days, along with a slightly elevated humidity of 86%. For more information on January weather specifics, you can check out Olympia weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, it's clear that May enjoys significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of up to 29°C (85°F), while February experiences much cooler averages, ranging from -5°C (23°F) to 14°C (58°F). Additionally, February is wetter, with 155 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over 17 days, compared to May's 65 mm (2.6 in) across 9 days. Despite the similarities in humidity levels at 84%, the overall conditions in May are much more favorable for outdoor activities. For more detailed information on February weather, you can visit Olympia weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, significant differences emerge. May presents a much warmer climate with average temperatures rising to 13°C (56°F) and peaking at 29°C (85°F), while March remains cooler, averaging around 7°C (45°F) and reaching a maximum of 22°C (73°F). Precipitation levels also vary; March sees heavier rainfall at 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days, compared to May's lighter precipitation of 65 mm (2.6 in) across 9 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 84%, while March maintains a consistent 85% humidity. For more detailed information on March weather, visit Olympia weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, May generally offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), whereas April starts with cooler conditions, dipping to as low as -1°C (31°F) and averaging 10°C (50°F). May sees a maximum temperature that can reach up to 29°C (85°F), significantly warmer than April's cap of 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is lower in May, totaling 65 mm (2.6 in) over 9 rainy days, compared to April's 117 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days. The humidity levels remain quite similar, with May at 84% and April slightly lower at 83%. For more details on April's weather, you can visit Olympia weather in April.
In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees approximately 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 9 days, while the humidity remains high at 84%. In contrast, June brings a noticeable increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a striking maximum of 40°C (104°F), leading to an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). Interestingly, June experiences slightly less precipitation at 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 7 days, yet maintains the same humidity level of 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check Olympia weather in June.
May and July showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. May experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (85°F), while July is generally milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (49°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is more prominent in May, accumulating 65 mm (2.6 in) over about 9 days, compared to July's much drier conditions, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) falling over just 2 days. Interestingly, humidity levels are fairly consistent between the two months, sitting at 84% in May and slightly lower at 82% in July. For more details, you can check Olympia weather in July.
May and August present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month sees a significant amount of rainfall, accumulating 65 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 9 days, coupled with relatively high humidity at 84%. In contrast, August enjoys warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation drops dramatically to just 12 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, and humidity decreases to 73%, making August a much drier and sunnier month. For more details, check out Olympia weather in August.
May and September offer distinct weather patterns, each with their unique characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (40°F) to a warm 29°C (85°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F) and a high humidity of 84%. The month sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days. In contrast, September presents milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). While it remains relatively dry with 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain over 10 days, the decreased humidity of 74% adds a more comfortable feel to the air. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can visit Olympia weather in September.
In comparison to May, October experiences a notable drop in temperatures, with average highs of 24°C (75°F) as opposed to May's warmer 29°C (85°F). May showcases a broader range of temperatures, with minimums at 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (85°F), while October's minimums drop to a chilly 1°C (34°F) and average out at 11°C (52°F). Additionally, October sees increased precipitation, totaling 133 mm (5.3 in) over approximately 12 days, compared to May's 65 mm (2.6 in) over about 9 days. Despite this increase in rainfall, the humidity remains relatively similar, at 84% in May and slightly lower at 83% in October. For a detailed overview of the weather in October, you can visit Olympia weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). The month experiences about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 9 days, with humidity at 84%. In contrast, November's weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), averaging 8°C (46°F). This month sees significantly higher precipitation of 192 mm (7.5 in) spread over 17 days, and humidity levels rise slightly to 86%. For more details, check out Olympia weather in November.
In May, temperatures in Olympia typically range from a cool 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm 29°C (85°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, with around 65 mm (2.6 in) falling over approximately 9 days and humidity levels hovering around 84%.
In contrast, December sees significantly lower temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), averaging 5°C (42°F). The month is much wetter, with total precipitation reaching 203 mm (8.0 in) over about 18 days, coupled with slightly higher humidity at 87%. For more details on December weather, check out Olympia weather in December.
As May unfolds in Olympia, the weather showcases a delightful transition from the chill of earlier months to the warmth of summer. With temperatures reaching a maximum of 29°C (85°F), the days become increasingly pleasant, although the average temperature remains a cool 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases compared to the wetter winter months, yet the city still experiences about 9 rainy days, contributing to an overall humidity of 84% that keeps the air fresh. This unique blend of warmth and moisture sets May apart, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant blooms of spring. For more insights on the overall weather patterns in the area, check out Olympia Climate.