May weather forecastYosemite National Park, CA

Weather in May

With May comes a noticeable transition from spring to summer in Yosemite National Park. A stark contrast from the winter season, May sees a near absence of snowfall with only 0.2" (5mm) recorded on average. Weather conditions significantly improve, leading to an increase in the park's footfall. Most of the snow melts away, revealing the large expansive greens and the cascading waterfalls to their fullest. Between sunrise and sunset, a 14.2 hours of daylight combined with 11 hours of sunshine pave way for various outdoor recreational activities.

Temperature

The start of May brings a subtle rise in the average high-temperature, moving from a refreshing 65.8°F (18.8°C) in April to an agreeable 72.9°F (22.7°C). In Yosemite National Park, the average temperature during the nights of May marks a significant drop from the daily high, settling at an icy 41.5°F (5.3°C).

Rainfall

In Yosemite National Park, in May, during 5 rainfall days, 1.46" (37mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 65 rainfall days, and 36.26" (921mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

Snowfall

January through May, October through December are months with snowfall in Yosemite National Park. May is the last month it regularly snows. Throughout May, Yosemite National Park aggregates 0.2" (5mm) of snow. In Yosemite National Park, during the entire year, snow aggregates up to 65.31" (1659mm).

Daylight

In Yosemite National Park, the average length of the day in May is 14h and 14min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 6:01 am and sunset at 7:49 pm. On the last day of May, sunrise is at 5:37 am and sunset at 8:14 pm PDT.

Sunshine

In Yosemite National Park, the average sunshine in May is 11h.

UV index

The average daily maximum UV index in May is 9. A UV Index of 8 to 10 symbolizes a very high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: During May, 9 as the daily maximum UV index converts into the following advice:
Protection is paramount; otherwise, swift harm can come to the skin and eyes. Stay in the shade and limit direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a time when UV radiation is particularly strong. Remember, however, that shade structures may not provide complete protection. Loose clothes with a tight weave are optimal for safeguarding yourself against the Sun's rays. Mind you! Snow reflection can increase the intensity of the Sun's UV radiation nearly twofold.