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Bismarck Weather in May

Bismarck in May averages 20°C (68°F) during the day and 6°C (43°F) at night. Keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is expected this month.

Rainfall in Bismarck in May

Historically, the month has about 12 days of rain, averaging 76 mm (3 in) in total. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.

Temperature in Bismarck in May

The temperature in Bismarck in May is perfect. Daytime highs reach 20°C (68°F), with nights dropping to 6°C (43°F). A light jacket or extra layer can be useful, especially outside the warmest hours of the day. Nights fall to 6°C (43°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.

Sunshine in Bismarck in May

There are approximately 296 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.

If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, May, June, July, August and September typically offer the best circumstances for Bismarck.

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Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Bismarck's climate page.

Bismarck Temperature in May

Min TemperatureMin Temperature 6°C (43°F)  
Max TemperatureMax Temperature 20°C (68°F)  
Chance of RainChance of Rain 40%  
PrecipitationPrecipitation 76 mm (3 in)  
Rainy daysRainy days 12 days  
HumidityHumidity 60%  
SunshineSunshine 296 hours  
Percentage SunshinePercentage Sunshine 64%  

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Bismarck typically rise from around 18°C (64°F) at the start of May to approximately 23°C (73°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 2°C (36°F) to 10°C (50°F).

Average temperatures in May

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in May

Historical weather for Bismarck in May

Browse day-by-day weather records for Bismarck spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Bismarck historical weather extremes in May

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Bismarck from 1976 through 2026.

  • The hottest May day on record in Bismarck reached 35°C (95°F) (May 11, 2025).
  • Bismarck registered its coldest May night on May 3, 2005, with temperatures dropping to -8°C (18°F).
  • The heaviest May precipitation occurred on May 30, 2007, when 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation fell.

Best Places in the United States of America in May

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in May →

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Legend perfect weather pleasant tolerable unpleasant poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Bismarck in May

Pleasant temperatures in May mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Bismarck in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Cycling
9/10
Walking
9/10
Camping
4/10
Outdoor sports
9/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Bismarck's climate page.

More climate data for Bismarck