What May feels like in New Orleans
In New Orleans, May brings late spring. Expect proper heat in the afternoon — slow down between noon and four. There is little difference between day and night: nights stay warm, and evenings feel much like the afternoon. High humidity makes the heat feel heavier and sticky, especially on still afternoons.
Rain in New Orleans in May
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. Rain tends to come in heavy bursts: about 10.2 mm (0.4 in) on an average rainy day. The yearly figure is similar, around 10.1 mm per wet day.
Daylight and sunshine in May
On 15 May the sun rises at about 6:07 am and sets around 7:45 pm local time, giving 13 h 38 min of daylight. Days are getting longer: 46 min more daylight than in mid-April. Measured sunshine covers about 84% of the daylight — skies are mostly clear.
How May compares to the rest of the year
Ranked by average high, May comes out as the 5th warmest month in New Orleans. Compared with April, afternoons are 3.4°C (6.1°F) warmer, with 18 mm more rain. June continues the upward trend. The next month's average high: 30.7°C (87.3°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — daytime temperatures are fine for walking around.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — afternoons are too warm to linger outside.
Tips for visiting New Orleans in May
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is New Orleans in May?
Expect around 28°C (82.4°F) in the afternoon and 21.2°C (70.2°F) at night, which most visitors would call hot.
Does it rain a lot in New Orleans in May?
Quite a lot — 123 mm spread over about 12 days.
What should I wear in New Orleans in May?
Based on the averages: rain protection and sunglasses. Evenings feel similar to the day, so the same clothes work from morning to night.
Is May or June better for visiting New Orleans?
On our 12-month climate ranking, May comes out ahead (#8 of 12 vs #10). June is warmer and has more rainy days.