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Seattle Weather in May

May in Seattle averages 19°C (66°F) during the day and 9°C (48°F) at night. Around 54 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall is typical for this time of year.

Rainfall in Seattle in May

The climate data from previous years indicates about 12 days of rain, averaging 54 mm (2.1 in) for the month. Neither particularly heavy nor particularly frequent, the rain this month is about average. A light jacket should be enough on most wet days.

Temperature in Seattle in May

In May, expect pleasant temperatures in Seattle, with highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F) at night. This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. Nights drop to 9°C (48°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet.

Sunshine in Seattle in May

Enjoy a sunny month with about 254 hours of sunshine, the clear skies make Seattle even more beautiful.

Wind Speed in Seattle in May

In May, average wind speeds reach 4 m/s (8 knots), leading to light to moderate breezes. Conditions vary from day to day, with both calm and windier periods.

For Seattle itself, June, July, August and September generally stand out with 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.

Seattle Temperature in May

Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
19°C (66°F)
Chance of Rain
40%
Precipitation
54 mm (2.1 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
68%
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots)
Sunshine
254 hours
Percentage Sunshine
54%

Seattle Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Seattle typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 19°C (66°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 11°C (52°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 Seattle in May

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

Seattle historical weather extremes in May

According to our 50 years of weather records for Seattle, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2026.

  • On May 28, 1983, temperatures climbed to 33°C (91°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
  • On May 7, 1999, Seattle saw its coldest May day with temperatures maxing out at 8°C (46°F).
  • Seattle registered its coldest May night on May 7, 2002, with temperatures dropping to 2°C (36°F).
  • The wettest May day on record brought 30 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation to Seattle (May 3, 2014).

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 Seattle 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. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Seattle in May

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

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

Seattle 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.