Avg High
Anchorage in May
Verdict
In Anchorage, May has a distinct spring feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are climbing noticeably. You can usually expect a cool month that feels variable day to day. Skies often lean grey, which softens the day even when it stays pleasant.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. It is worth having a couple of indoor backups in mind.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
18h
What to expect
- Temperature feel - Cooler air with a noticeable cool-down after sunset. Breezes and shade can make it feel cooler.
- Rain pattern - Changeable skies. Showers tend to come in pulses rather than lingering. Rain can be part of the daily rhythm.
- Midday sun - A bright month overall. You'll feel fine, but it's still easy to get caught out. Shade breaks feel genuinely worthwhile.
- Light & shade - Grey-leaning skies. Sun breaks can arrive suddenly, so keep sunglasses handy. It can feel cooler than expected without direct sun.
May in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in Anchorage.
Hottest (avg)
#5 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#11 / 12
Daylight Hours
#3 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#9 / 12
Highest UV
#3 / 12
Most Humid
#11 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 17.6 hours
- UV index (max)
- 6
- Typical sun hours
- 04:09 – 21:42
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 13
- Cloud cover
- 66%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 74%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is May a good time to visit Anchorage?
Typical May days in Anchorage reach highs of 11°C (52°F) with nights around 3°C (37°F). It usually feels cool by day and cold after dark. It is one of the drier months, which suits outdoor exploring and sightseeing.
What are temperatures like in May?
Daytime temperatures in May typically peak near 11°C (52°F), while nights drop to around 3°C (37°F). Expect cool afternoons and cold evenings.
How much does it rain in May?
Rainfall in May averages 43 mm (1.7 in) across roughly 13 days. Overall it is a quite rainy time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in May?
You can expect about 18 hours of daylight in May. Sunrise is typically around 04:09 and sunset near 21:42. Very long days give you plenty of daylight for exploring.
How strong is the sun in May?
UV levels are moderate (around 6); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in May?
In May, average wind speeds are around 6 km/h (4 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 38 km/h (24 mph). On the ground, it is a gentle to moderate breeze is common, but stronger winds are not frequent.