Shanghai Weather in May
China · Humid Subtropical climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
May in Shanghai sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 16.3°C (61.3°F) to a high of 25.4°C (77.7°F), with a mean of 20.5°C (68.9°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.2°C (63.0°F), this month is 3.3°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 109.7mm, making it approximately 12.0mm drier than the monthly average of 122.0mm. The city receives an average of 8.1 hours of sunshine per day during May, with relative humidity averaging 75.8%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 19.0 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Shanghai, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Shanghai taught me that 'shoulder season' is everything here. I arrived in early June thinking it was safe — landed straight into plum rain season, three solid weeks of 28°C and 95% humidity. Pack quick-dry everything June mid-July. The real sweet spots are April-May (20°C, low rain) and October (22°C, clear skies). Skip August — typhoon season plus 33°C plus 85% humidity is brutal. Winters (December-February) are damp and cold in a way the thermometer doesn't capture; 4°C feels like -2°C with the wet chill. Bring a down jacket.
May vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | April | May | June |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 15.5°C (59.9°F) | 20.5°C (68.9°F) | 24.6°C (76.3°F) |
| Rainfall | 102.9mm | 109.7mm | 246.9mm |
| Sunshine | 7.6 hrs | 8.1 hrs | 6.7 hrs |
| Humidity | 75.6% | 75.8% | 82.9% |
| Wind | 19.5 km/h | 19.0 km/h | 17.9 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 14.0 | 15.0 | 21.0 |
Seasonal Context
May falls in Spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring is a transitional season with temperatures rising from winter lows. For travelers visiting Shanghai in May, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Shanghai in May?
The average temperature in Shanghai during May ranges from 16.3°C (61.3°F) to 25.4°C (77.7°F), with a mean of 20.5°C (68.9°F).
How much does it rain in Shanghai in May?
Shanghai receives an average of 109.7mm of precipitation in May, spread across approximately 15.0 rainy days.
What should I pack for Shanghai in May?
Based on May weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella. Rain gear is essential — this month averages 109.7mm of precipitation.
Is May a good time to visit Shanghai?
May is a month with challenging conditions. Plan activities carefully and stay hydrated.
Other Months for Shanghai
Cities with Similar May Climate (Humid Subtropical)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 31.23°, 121.47°. Timezone: Asia/Shanghai. Last updated: 2026-07-30.