Iqaluit Weather in May
With daytime temperatures of 1°C (34°F) and nighttime lows of -6°C (21°F), May in Iqaluit brings very low temperatures during the day. Some snow/rainfall is to be expected during the month.
Rainfall in Iqaluit in May
The climate data from previous years indicates about 12 days of snow/rain, averaging 45 mm (1.8 in) for the month. Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.
Temperature in Iqaluit in May
Iqaluit in May gets highs of 1°C (34°F) during the day and drops to -6°C (21°F) at night. Expect a distinctly cold feel throughout the day, not just overnight. Nights drop below freezing to -6°C (21°F). An extra blanket is worth packing if you're unsure about the heating where you're staying. This month is extremely cold, so be sure to dress in layers to keep warm. Proper preparation can help you stay comfortable.
Sunshine in Iqaluit in May
You can expect a moderate amount of sunlight, with approximately 182 hours. This means a pleasant mix of sun and overcast.
Wind Speed in Iqaluit in May
May has wind speeds averaging 5 m/s (10 knots). You can expect gentle to moderate winds that move small trees and make flags wave steadily on typical days. Conditions typically range from light breezes to moderate winds.May in Iqaluit can still be great, but if you prefer pleasant temperatures along with dry and sunny conditions, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Canada, check out our Iqaluit's climate page.
Iqaluit Temperature in May
Min Temperature
-6°C (21°F)
Max Temperature
1°C (34°F)
Chance of Rain
41%
Precipitation
45 mm (1.8 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
78%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
182 hours
Percentage Sunshine
32%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Iqaluit typically rise from around -3°C (27°F) at the start of May to approximately 2°C (36°F) by the end. Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -10°C (14°F) to -2°C (28°F).
Average temperatures in May
Historical weather for Iqaluit in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Iqaluit spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Iqaluit historical weather extremes in May
Based on 50 years of weather observations in Iqaluit between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.
- On May 31, 2019, temperatures climbed to 11°C (52°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
- The coldest night in May in Iqaluit was on May 6, 1993, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F).
Best Places in Canada in May
Find out more about the weather in Canada and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Canada in May →
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tolerable
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What to Wear in Iqaluit in May
We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Iqaluit in May. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the monthWhat To Do in Iqaluit in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Canada, check out our Iqaluit's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Iqaluit climate overview or explore weather in Canada.
