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Indianapolis Weather in May

May in Indianapolis brings high temperatures, with daytime highs of 23°C (73°F) and nights around 12°C (54°F). Quite a bit of rainfall is expected, around 116 mm (4.6 in), so pack an umbrella.

Rainfall in Indianapolis in May

Past climate data indicates that roughly 15 days will see rain, totalling around 116 mm (4.6 in) for the month. Expect frequent rainfall this month, and not just light drizzle. When it rains, it tends to come down hard.

Temperature in Indianapolis in May

In May, Indianapolis sees high temperatures, with highs of 23°C (73°F). Nights drop to around 12°C (54°F). Conditions stay fairly consistent through the month, making it easier to plan what to wear. Nights cool down to 12°C (54°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Indianapolis in May

The month enjoys around 270 hours of sunshine, creating mostly sunny days with good weather conditions.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, August and September typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Indianapolis Temperature in May

Min Temperature
12°C (54°F)
Max Temperature
23°C (73°F)
Chance of Rain
50%
Precipitation
116 mm (4.6 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
68%
Sunshine
270 hours
Percentage Sunshine
60%

Indianapolis Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Indianapolis - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Indianapolis typically rise from around 20°C (68°F) at the start of May to approximately 26°C (79°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 16°C (61°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 records for Indianapolis in May

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

Indianapolis historical weather extremes in May

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

  • The warmest day in May was on May 28, 2018, with a maximum of 35°C (95°F).
  • Indianapolis registered its coldest May night on May 9, 2020, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F).

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 →

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 Indianapolis 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. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Indianapolis in May

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

  • Swimming
    9/10
  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Camping
    6/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Indianapolis 3-Day Forecast

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.