Verdict

In Austin, May has a distinct spring feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are climbing noticeably. You can usually expect a warm month that feels variable day to day. It often has a hot and tropical, with heavy bursts of rain breaking the heat feel, especially for outdoor plans.

Well suited to visitors who prefer a steady feel over dramatic shifts. A breeze can shift the feel of the day, especially later on.

Avg High
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
14h
What to expect
  • Temperature feel - Warm-to-hot conditions with a noticeable cool-down after sunset. Direct sun can push it into “hotter than expected” territory.
  • Rain pattern - Rain is a constant possibility. Expect damp surfaces and slick paths. Rain can be part of the daily rhythm.
  • Midday sun - Midday sun is intense. You can burn surprisingly quickly, so sun protection is strongly recommended. Shade breaks feel genuinely worthwhile.
  • Wind feel - Often breezy, and expect sharp gusts that can change plans in exposed areas. Sheltered streets can feel fine, but open areas feel very different.
May in context

How it compares to the rest of the year in Austin.

Hottest (avg)
#5 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#1 / 12
Daylight Hours
#3 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#3 / 12
Highest UV
#3 / 12
Most Humid
#1 / 12

Temperature

Daytime high
Nighttime low
Feels like (avg)

Sunshine

Daylight
13.7 hours
UV index (max)
8
Typical sun hours
05:36 – 19:17

Rain & Snow

Total
Rainy days
15
Cloud cover
59%
Snowfall

Humidity & Wind

Humidity (avg)
72%
Wind (avg)
Wind (max gusts)

Frequently asked questions

Is May a good time to visit Austin?

Typical May days in Austin reach highs of 30°C (86°F) with nights around 20°C (68°F). It usually feels hot by day and mild after dark. It is among the wetter months, so it is wise to have some indoor backup plans or flexible activities.

What are temperatures like in May?

In May, you can usually expect highs of 30°C (86°F) and lows near 20°C (68°F). That means hot days and mild nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.

How much does it rain in May?

Rainfall in May averages 128 mm (5.0 in) across roughly 15 days. Overall it is a very wet 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 14 hours of daylight in May. Sunrise is typically around 05:36 and sunset near 19:17. You get long days with comfortable amounts of daylight.

How strong is the sun in May?

UV levels frequently reach very high levels (around 8), so strong sun protection is essential, especially around midday.

Is it windy in May?

In May, average wind speeds are around 14 km/h (9 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 55 km/h (34 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.

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