What May feels like in Seattle
In Seattle, May brings late spring. Afternoons are cool, pleasant for walking as long as you keep a layer on. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights are cool. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Seattle in May
Expect a mix of dry and wet days, with rain about one day in 3. Each rainy day adds about 6.1 mm (0.2 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 8.3 mm per rainy day.
Daylight and sunshine in May
In mid-May, sunrise is at about 5:33 am and sunset at about 8:38 pm (local time) — 15 h 5 min of daylight. The days are stretching out — 1 h 31 min more daylight than mid-April. Measured sunshine covers about 69% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How May compares to the rest of the year
May is the 5th warmest month of the year in Seattle. Against April, the average high is 4°C (7.2°F) higher, with 28 mm less rain. The warm-up continues into June. By June, typical highs are 20.2°C (68.4°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — comfortable enough to explore on foot all day.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — good conditions for sitting outside.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
- Hiking: less ideal — trails are cool.
Tips for visiting Seattle in May
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag and wear shoes that cope with puddles.
Light Jacket
A light jacket or knit layer is enough for most of the day.
Sunglasses
Bright days make sunglasses worth packing.
Quick questions
How warm is Seattle in May?
Afternoons average 17.3°C (63.1°F) and nights about 8.7°C (47.7°F) — cool by most people's standards. It is the 5th warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Seattle in May?
It does: about 11 rainy days bring roughly 67 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Seattle in May?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection, a light jacket and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is May or June better for visiting Seattle?
June scores better on our climate ranking (#3 of 12 vs #5), rated Great against Good. June is warmer and has fewer rainy days.