May weather forecast
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

May at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park incorporates bountiful sunshine and longer days, embracing the arrival of summer vibes. The shift from Spring to Summer is most notable in the absence of snowfall that was a humble 1.1" (28mm) in April. With clear skies, the park promotes a vast array of outdoor activities, from strenuous hikes to leisurely walks. Increased daylight, coupled with the higher sun exposure, thickens the park's lush vegetation. Occasional showers may arrive, providing respite during warmer days.

Temperature

The start of May is characterized by a subtle increase in the average high-temperature, transitioning from a moderate 57°F (13.9°C) in April to a comfortable 64°F (17.8°C). Great Smoky Mountains National Park's average low-temperature in May is measured at a chilly 45°F (7.2°C).

Rainfall

In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in May, it is raining for 11 days, with typically 6.06" (154mm) of accumulated precipitation. In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, during the entire year, the rain falls for 123 days and collects up to 72.13" (1832mm) of precipitation.

Snowfall

Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December. May is the last month it regularly snows. Throughout May, Great Smoky Mountains National Park aggregates 1.06" (27mm) of snow. Throughout the year, 81.5" (2070mm) of snow is accumulated.

Daylight

In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the average length of the day in May is 14h and 4min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 6:41 am and sunset at 8:20 pm. On the last day of May, sunrise is at 6:19 am and sunset at 8:43 pm EDT.

Sunshine

The months with the most sunshine in Great Smoky Mountains National Park are May through July, with an average of 9h of sunshine.

UV index

In May, the average daily maximum UV index in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 9. A UV Index estimate of 8 to 10 represents a very high health vulnerability from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index, 9 during May, leads to the following recommendations:
Be proactive in protecting yourself; skin and eyes can be harmed if left unprotected. Avoid exposure to the Sun and try to stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most potent, but be aware that parasols or canopies may not offer full protection. Sunglasses providing both UVA and UVB protection are non-negotiable on sunlit days. Keep in mind! Snow's reflective quality can nearly double the intensity of the Sun's UV radiation.