9+ Best NC Weather in May: Guide & Forecast


9+ Best NC Weather in May: Guide & Forecast

North Carolina in Could experiences a transition from spring to summer time, characterised by more and more heat temperatures and better humidity. Daytime highs usually vary from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to excessive 20s Celsius) throughout the state, although mountain areas stay cooler. Rainfall is mostly average and contributes to the plush greenery prevalent all through the state. This era marks the start of the rising season for a lot of crops and the emergence of assorted wildlife.

Understanding typical local weather circumstances throughout this time is essential for numerous sectors, together with agriculture, tourism, and occasion planning. Farmers depend on predictable climate patterns to optimize planting and harvesting schedules. Vacationers profit from realizing what apparel to pack and which out of doors actions are most fitted. Traditionally, Could’s temperate local weather has performed a major position in shaping the state’s agricultural traditions and its enchantment as a vacation spot for out of doors recreation.

This data gives a foundational understanding for exploring particular features of North Carolina’s local weather in Could, together with regional variations, historic climate information, and the impression of local weather change on future circumstances. Additional investigation will delve into subjects reminiscent of common rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and the probability of maximum climate occasions.

1. Nice Temperatures

Nice temperatures are a defining attribute of North Carolina’s climate in Could, contributing considerably to the state’s enchantment throughout this time of yr. This agreeable local weather fosters numerous out of doors actions and influences the state’s agricultural practices.

  • Common Highs and Lows

    Daytime temperatures usually attain the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (low to excessive 20s Celsius) throughout a lot of the state. Nighttime lows typically settle within the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10s to excessive teenagers Celsius). This average temperature vary gives snug circumstances for each daytime excursions and night rest.

  • Regional Variations

    Whereas the final development is in the direction of nice heat, some regional variations exist. Mountainous areas expertise cooler temperatures, providing a refreshing escape from the rising warmth of the decrease elevations. Coastal areas profit from sea breezes, moderating temperatures and offering aid from humidity.

  • Impression on Outside Actions

    The snug temperatures in Could encourage participation in a wide range of out of doors pursuits. Climbing, tenting, fishing, and different leisure actions are in style throughout this time. The average local weather permits for prolonged durations of outside enjoyment with out excessive warmth or chilly.

  • Agricultural Significance

    The nice temperatures of Could play a vital position in agriculture. This era is right for the continued progress of spring crops and permits for the planting of summer time varieties. The heat promotes speedy progress and growth, contributing to a profitable rising season.

These average temperatures, mixed with different favorable climate circumstances, place Could as a fascinating time to expertise North Carolina’s pure magnificence and contribute to the state’s thriving agricultural sector. This snug local weather performs a vital position in shaping the state’s id and enchantment.

2. Reasonable Rainfall

Reasonable rainfall is a key attribute of North Carolina’s climate in Could, influencing the state’s vibrant ecosystems, agricultural practices, and general surroundings. Understanding its patterns and implications is essential for appreciating the nuances of this transitional month.

  • Common Precipitation

    Could usually receives a mean of 3-4 inches of rainfall distributed all through the month. This average precipitation contributes to the plush landscapes and gives needed hydration for the state’s various flora. Whereas variations can happen, this common gives a normal expectation for the quantity of rainfall skilled.

  • Impression on Agriculture

    Reasonable rainfall performs a significant position in supporting North Carolina’s agricultural actions. It gives important moisture for crops planted within the spring, selling wholesome progress and growth. This pure irrigation contributes considerably to the success of the state’s agricultural sector.

  • Water Useful resource Administration

    Could’s rainfall contributes to replenishing water sources throughout the state. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs profit from this inflow of water, supporting aquatic ecosystems and making certain ample water provides for numerous makes use of. This replenishment is essential for sustaining ecological steadiness and assembly human wants.

  • Occasional Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

    Whereas average rainfall is typical, occasional durations of heavier rainfall can happen, typically resulting in localized flooding. These occasions, whereas much less frequent, can pose challenges to infrastructure and require applicable preparedness measures. Understanding the potential for heavier rainfall is essential for mitigating dangers.

The average rainfall skilled in North Carolina throughout Could contributes considerably to the state’s ecological well being and agricultural prosperity. Understanding its patterns and potential impacts permits for higher administration of water sources and preparedness for infrequent heavy rainfall occasions. This steadiness of constant moisture and occasional heavier precipitation shapes the surroundings and influences numerous actions throughout the state.

3. Rising Humidity

Rising humidity is a major attribute of North Carolina’s climate in Could, marking the transition from the milder humidity of spring to the extra humid circumstances of summer time. This rise in atmospheric moisture content material has a number of implications for the state’s local weather, surroundings, and residents.

  • Dew Level and Consolation Ranges

    The dew level, a measure of atmospheric moisture, rises noticeably in Could. Larger dew factors correlate with elevated humidity and might result in a notion of larger heat and discomfort. Because the dew level climbs into the 60s Fahrenheit (excessive teenagers Celsius), the air feels stickier, and out of doors exertion can grow to be extra strenuous.

  • Affect on Precipitation Patterns

    Rising humidity contributes to the event of afternoon thunderstorms, a standard incidence in North Carolina throughout Could. The upper moisture content material gives the required gasoline for these storms, which may deliver transient durations of heavy rain, lightning, and sometimes, hail. These storms play a task in replenishing water sources however may also disrupt out of doors actions.

  • Impression on Plant Life and Agriculture

    The elevated humidity advantages plants by offering ample moisture for progress and growth. This moisture, mixed with the hotter temperatures, creates splendid circumstances for the flourishing of assorted plant species. Nonetheless, larger humidity may also create favorable circumstances for the unfold of sure plant ailments, requiring cautious monitoring and administration in agricultural settings.

  • Results on Human Well being

    Larger humidity can exacerbate respiratory circumstances, significantly for people with bronchial asthma or allergy symptoms. The moist air may also contribute to the expansion of mildew and mildew, which may additional impression indoor air high quality. Taking precautions to handle indoor humidity ranges turns into more and more essential throughout this time.

The rising humidity in Could is an integral a part of North Carolina’s transition into summer time. Whereas it contributes to the plush landscapes and helps agricultural actions, it additionally necessitates consciousness of its potential impacts on consolation ranges, precipitation patterns, and human well being. Understanding these features permits for higher adaptation to the altering climate circumstances and knowledgeable decision-making concerning out of doors actions and well being precautions.

4. Blooming Flora

Could in North Carolina marks a interval of vibrant floral shows immediately influenced by the prevailing climate circumstances. The mix of warming temperatures, elevated daylight, and average rainfall creates a super surroundings for a various vary of vegetation to flourish. This blooming interval contributes considerably to the state’s biodiversity and aesthetic enchantment, supporting numerous ecosystems and attracting vacationers.

The delicate temperatures of Could, usually starting from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit, present optimum circumstances for plant progress after the cooler months. This heat, coupled with the rising daytime, triggers flowering in lots of species. The average rainfall gives needed hydration, supporting the event of blossoms and foliage. Examples embrace the flowering dogwood, the state flower, showcasing its attribute white or pink bracts, and the colourful azaleas including splashes of shade throughout the panorama. Wildflowers reminiscent of lupine, phlox, and Indian paintbrush additionally emerge, contributing to the wealthy tapestry of the state’s pure magnificence. This abundance of blooming flora gives important sources for pollinators like bees and butterflies, enjoying a vital position in sustaining wholesome ecosystems.

Understanding the connection between Could’s climate and blooming flora gives sensible advantages. Gardeners can make the most of this information to optimize planting schedules and choose applicable species for his or her landscapes. Tourism industries profit from selling the state’s vibrant floral shows, attracting guests looking for to expertise the pure magnificence. Moreover, this understanding permits for knowledgeable conservation efforts, defending native plant species and preserving North Carolina’s wealthy biodiversity for future generations. The shut interaction between climate and flora in Could underscores the significance of sustainable practices to make sure the continued vibrancy of the state’s pure heritage.

5. Lively Fauna

Could’s climate in North Carolina triggers a surge in faunal exercise. The average temperatures and elevated meals availability create splendid circumstances for a wide range of species to thrive. Understanding this connection gives insights into the complicated interaction between local weather and the pure world.

  • Elevated Breeding Exercise

    Many species provoke breeding throughout Could, profiting from the favorable climate circumstances. Amphibians, reminiscent of frogs and salamanders, make the most of the ample rainfall to create breeding swimming pools. Birds set up nesting websites and start elevating their younger. The warming temperatures and elevated meals provide contribute to profitable copy and make sure the survival of offspring. For instance, the American Robin, a standard sight in North Carolina, actively nests and raises younger throughout this time.

  • Emergence from Hibernation/Dormancy

    Could marks the emergence of assorted species from winter hibernation or dormancy. Reptiles, like snakes and turtles, grow to be extra energetic as temperatures rise, basking within the solar to manage their physique temperature. Bugs, essential for pollination and ecosystem well being, additionally enhance in numbers, benefiting from the blooming flora. The Jap Field Turtle, as an illustration, emerges from its winter dormancy and turns into energetic throughout Could.

  • Elevated Foraging and Feeding

    The abundance of meals sources, together with bugs, vegetation, and fruits, permits for elevated foraging and feeding exercise amongst numerous species. Mammals, reminiscent of squirrels and deer, profit from the available vegetation. Birds discover ample insect populations to feed their younger. This heightened feeding exercise contributes to their progress, copy, and general well being. The White-tailed Deer, a standard species in North Carolina, actively forages on new plant progress in Could.

  • Migration and Motion

    Could coincides with the migratory patterns of sure chook species, which both cross via North Carolina on their method north or set up breeding territories throughout the state. The favorable climate and ample meals sources make it a super stopover level for migrating birds. For instance, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird migrates via North Carolina throughout Could, looking for nectar from blooming flowers.

The elevated faunal exercise in North Carolina throughout Could is a direct response to the prevailing climate circumstances. The average temperatures, ample rainfall, and elevated meals availability create a thriving surroundings for numerous species to breed, forage, and migrate. This interconnectedness highlights the numerous affect of Could’s climate on the state’s ecological steadiness and the vitality of its wildlife populations.

6. Longer Daylight

Longer daytime are a defining attribute of Could in North Carolina, immediately influenced by the Earth’s axial tilt and orbital place. This enhance in daylight period considerably impacts the state’s climate patterns, ecosystems, and human actions. Because the Northern Hemisphere tilts in the direction of the solar, North Carolina experiences progressively longer days all through Could, reaching a peak across the summer time solstice. This prolonged publicity to daylight has profound penalties for the state’s local weather and surroundings.

One of the vital direct results of longer daylight is the rise in photo voltaic radiation acquired by the Earth’s floor. This elevated photo voltaic power contributes to an increase in temperatures, warming each the air and the bottom. This warming development influences atmospheric circulation patterns, contributing to the event of convective thunderstorms, a standard characteristic of North Carolina’s climate in Could. The longer daytime additionally present extra time for photosynthesis, fueling plant progress and contributing to the colourful blooms attribute of this era. This, in flip, helps elevated insect exercise, offering a wealthy meals supply for birds and different wildlife. For instance, the prolonged daylight permits for elevated foraging time for pollinators like bees, benefiting each plant copy and honey manufacturing.

The sensible significance of understanding the connection between longer daylight and climate in Could is substantial. Agricultural practices profit from the prolonged rising season supplied by the elevated daylight, permitting for optimized planting and harvesting schedules. The tourism business can capitalize on the nice climate and prolonged daytime to advertise out of doors actions and entice guests. Moreover, this understanding permits for higher power administration, because the elevated daylight might be utilized for solar energy era, decreasing reliance on conventional power sources. The interaction between longer daylight and climate in Could underscores the interconnectedness of pure techniques and the significance of adapting to seasonal adjustments.

7. Occasional Storms

Occasional storms are an inherent a part of North Carolina’s climate in Could, arising from the interaction of accelerating temperatures, humidity, and atmospheric instability. These storms, whereas typically transient, contribute considerably to the state’s rainfall totals and might often pose challenges to out of doors actions and infrastructure.

  • Kinds of Storms

    Could storms in North Carolina usually manifest as convective thunderstorms, pushed by the rising of heat, moist air. These storms can vary in depth from transient showers with gentle wind and thunder to extra extreme thunderstorms producing heavy downpours, robust winds, hail, and even tornadoes, though the latter are much less frequent. Understanding the various kinds of storms and their potential impacts is essential for preparedness.

  • Atmospheric Circumstances

    A number of atmospheric elements contribute to the formation of those storms. Rising humidity gives ample moisture, whereas warming temperatures create instability within the decrease ambiance. The collision of heat, moist air with cooler, drier air lots can set off the event of thunderstorms. Fronts shifting via the area may also provoke or intensify storm exercise. These dynamic atmospheric circumstances are attribute of Could’s transitional climate.

  • Impression on Native Surroundings

    Whereas occasional storms can disrupt out of doors plans and trigger short-term inconveniences, additionally they play a significant position within the native surroundings. They contribute considerably to replenishing water sources, nourishing vegetation, and sustaining ecological steadiness. The rainfall related to these storms is important for agricultural actions and sustains the state’s various ecosystems. This steadiness of disruption and profit is an integral a part of North Carolina’s local weather in Could.

  • Security and Preparedness

    Being ready for infrequent storms is important for minimizing potential dangers. Monitoring climate forecasts, having a plan for looking for shelter throughout extreme climate, and being conscious of potential hazards reminiscent of lightning strikes and flash floods are essential security measures. Understanding the potential for extreme climate and taking applicable precautions can mitigate the detrimental impacts of those storms and guarantee private security.

The incidence of occasional storms in North Carolina throughout Could underscores the dynamic nature of the state’s climate throughout this transitional month. Whereas these storms can deliver short-term disruptions, they contribute considerably to the state’s water sources and ecological well being. Preparedness and consciousness are key to navigating these climate occasions and appreciating their position in shaping North Carolina’s surroundings.

8. Transitional Interval

Could in North Carolina represents a major transitional interval between spring and summer time, characterised by dynamic shifts in climate patterns. This transition isn’t merely a chronological shift however a fancy interaction of atmospheric and environmental adjustments that form the state’s local weather throughout this month. Probably the most outstanding attribute of this transitional part is the regular enhance in temperatures. Common day by day temperatures rise from the milder spring circumstances into the hotter vary typical of summer time. This warming development influences different atmospheric variables, together with humidity and precipitation patterns. The rising heat additionally triggers important adjustments within the state’s ecosystems, influencing plant progress, animal conduct, and general ecological dynamics. As an example, the transition into hotter climate prompts the blooming of quite a few plant species, creating vibrant shows of shade throughout the panorama and offering important sources for pollinators.

The transitional nature of Could’s climate additionally contributes to the next frequency of unpredictable climate occasions. Whereas average rainfall is typical, the transition between seasons can result in durations of heavier precipitation and occasional extreme thunderstorms. These storms, fueled by rising humidity and atmospheric instability, can deliver heavy downpours, robust winds, and hail. The shift from spring to summer time additionally influences daytime, with Could experiencing a noticeable enhance in daylight period. This prolonged publicity to daylight additional contributes to the warming development and influences the timing of assorted pure processes, together with plant progress and animal exercise. Understanding the transitional nature of Could’s climate is essential for numerous sectors, together with agriculture, tourism, and emergency preparedness. Farmers should adapt planting schedules to accommodate the fluctuating climate circumstances, whereas tourism industries should be ready for the opportunity of each sunny days and occasional storms. Efficient emergency preparedness plans require accounting for the potential for extreme climate occasions related to this transitional interval.

In abstract, the transitional interval of Could in North Carolina represents a dynamic interaction of atmospheric and environmental adjustments. The shift from spring to summer time brings rising temperatures, fluctuating precipitation patterns, and the potential for each nice climate and occasional storms. Recognizing this dynamic transition is important for numerous sectors to adapt to the altering circumstances, optimize actions, and mitigate potential dangers. This understanding permits for a extra complete appreciation of Could’s climate and its significance for the state’s surroundings and human actions.

9. Ideally suited Planting Time

Could’s climate in North Carolina creates optimum circumstances for planting numerous crops, establishing it as a vital interval for the state’s agricultural sector. The interaction of average temperatures, ample rainfall, and rising daytime gives a super surroundings for seed germination, seedling institution, and vigorous early progress. Understanding this connection permits for knowledgeable decision-making concerning crop choice and planting schedules, contributing to profitable harvests and general agricultural productiveness.

  • Temperature Issues

    Could’s common temperatures, usually starting from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit in the course of the day and dropping to the 50s and 60s at evening, present the heat needed for seed germination and sturdy seedling growth. This Goldilocks temperature rangenot too scorching, not too coldis splendid for a lot of warm-season crops, together with tomatoes, peppers, corn, and beans. These average temperatures keep away from each chilling harm from late-season chilly snaps and warmth stress that may hinder early progress.

  • Rainfall and Soil Moisture

    Could’s average rainfall, averaging 3-4 inches throughout the state, gives constant soil moisture essential for seed germination and early plant institution. This ample moisture reduces the necessity for supplemental irrigation, significantly in the course of the preliminary progress phases. Nonetheless, well-drained soil is important to stop waterlogging, which may negatively impression root growth. Could’s rainfall, coupled with applicable soil administration practices, gives a positive steadiness of moisture and aeration for optimum plant progress.

  • Daylight Length and Photosynthesis

    Rising daytime in Could present ample daylight for photosynthesis, the method by which vegetation convert gentle power into chemical power for progress. The prolonged daylight period permits for elevated carbohydrate manufacturing, fueling sturdy vegetative progress and setting the stage for later flowering and fruiting. This abundance of daylight is especially helpful for warm-season crops that thrive below lengthy daylight circumstances. For instance, corn, a serious crop in North Carolina, advantages considerably from the prolonged daytime in Could, selling speedy progress and maximizing yield potential.

  • Pest and Illness Administration

    Whereas Could’s climate gives splendid rising circumstances for a lot of crops, it is essential to contemplate potential pest and illness pressures. The warming temperatures and elevated humidity can create favorable environments for sure pests and ailments to thrive. Implementing proactive pest and illness administration methods, reminiscent of crop rotation, applicable fertilization, and monitoring for early indicators of infestation, is essential for mitigating potential injury and making certain wholesome crop growth.

The convergence of favorable temperature, rainfall, and daylight circumstances in Could establishes this month as the perfect planting time for a lot of crops in North Carolina. Understanding the interaction of those climate elements permits farmers to optimize planting schedules, choose applicable crop varieties, and implement efficient administration methods to maximise yields and contribute to the state’s agricultural success. The shut relationship between Could’s climate and planting choices underscores the significance of local weather consciousness in agricultural planning and highlights the essential position of climate in shaping North Carolina’s agricultural panorama.

Ceaselessly Requested Questions on North Carolina Climate in Could

This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning North Carolina’s climate in Could, offering concise and informative responses to facilitate knowledgeable decision-making for vacationers, residents, and anybody within the state’s local weather throughout this transitional month.

Query 1: What’s the common temperature vary in North Carolina throughout Could?

Daytime temperatures usually vary from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (low to excessive 20s Celsius), whereas nighttime lows typically fall between the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10s to excessive teenagers Celsius). Mountainous areas expertise cooler temperatures.

Query 2: How a lot rain can one count on in North Carolina throughout Could?

North Carolina receives a mean of 3-4 inches of rainfall in Could, distributed comparatively evenly all through the month. Nonetheless, localized variations can happen.

Query 3: Is Could a damp month in North Carolina?

Humidity ranges enhance in Could, marking the transition from spring to summer time. This rise in humidity contributes to the notion of hotter temperatures and might affect the formation of afternoon thunderstorms.

Query 4: What kind of clothes is beneficial for visiting North Carolina in Could?

Mild clothes appropriate for heat days is beneficial, together with layers for cooler evenings and occasional rain showers. Snug strolling footwear are advisable for exploring the outside.

Query 5: What are some in style out of doors actions to take pleasure in in North Carolina throughout Could?

Climbing, tenting, fishing, and visiting the state’s quite a few parks and gardens are in style actions in Could. The nice climate additionally gives favorable circumstances for exploring the shoreline and having fun with water-based recreation.

Query 6: What are some potential weather-related challenges to contemplate throughout Could in North Carolina?

Occasional thunderstorms can disrupt out of doors plans, and rising humidity can exacerbate respiratory circumstances. Being ready for each heat, sunny days and the opportunity of rain and humidity is advisable.

Understanding the nuances of North Carolina’s climate in Could, together with temperature ranges, rainfall patterns, and potential climate occasions, permits for knowledgeable planning and enhanced enjoyment of the state’s various choices throughout this nice transitional month. Preparation is vital to maximizing consolation and security.

This FAQ part has supplied a complete overview of frequent weather-related queries. The following part will delve into particular regional variations in North Carolina’s local weather throughout Could.

Suggestions for Navigating North Carolina Climate in Could

Planning actions in North Carolina throughout Could requires consciousness of the state’s distinctive climate patterns. The next ideas provide sensible steerage for navigating this transitional month, making certain consolation, security, and profitable experiences.

Tip 1: Pack Layers: Could’s climate can fluctuate between heat days and funky evenings. Layering clothes permits for adaptation to altering temperatures all through the day. A lightweight jacket or sweater can present consolation throughout cooler mornings and evenings, whereas lighter apparel is appropriate for hotter daytime circumstances. Contemplate packing a mixture of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a lightweight jacket.

Tip 2: Be Ready for Rain: Reasonable rainfall is typical in Could. Packing a raincoat, umbrella, and waterproof footwear ensures preparedness for surprising showers. Test climate forecasts frequently to anticipate potential rain occasions and plan accordingly.

Tip 3: Monitor Pollen Counts: Could is a peak season for pollen in North Carolina. People with allergy symptoms ought to monitor pollen forecasts and contemplate taking applicable allergy medicines. Minimizing out of doors publicity throughout peak pollen instances may also alleviate allergy signs.

Tip 4: Keep Hydrated: Rising temperatures and humidity can result in dehydration. Consuming loads of water all through the day is important, particularly when participating in out of doors actions. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it steadily.

Tip 5: Defend from the Solar: Stronger solar in Could necessitates solar safety measures. Making use of sunscreen with a excessive SPF, carrying a hat, and looking for shade throughout peak solar hours minimizes the chance of sunburn. Defending pores and skin from dangerous UV radiation is essential throughout prolonged out of doors actions.

Tip 6: Test Occasion Schedules: Many out of doors occasions and festivals happen in North Carolina throughout Could. Checking schedules prematurely and contemplating potential climate impacts permits for knowledgeable planning and optimized enjoyment of those occasions.

Tip 7: Be Conscious of Extreme Climate: Whereas extreme climate is much less frequent in Could than in the course of the summer time months, occasional thunderstorms can happen. Staying knowledgeable about climate forecasts and having a plan for looking for shelter throughout extreme climate occasions is important for security.

Observing the following pointers facilitates snug and protected experiences in North Carolina throughout Could, enabling knowledgeable engagement with the state’s dynamic climate patterns and various out of doors alternatives. Planning based mostly on climate consciousness maximizes enjoyment and minimizes potential disruptions.

By understanding and adapting to North Carolina’s distinctive climate patterns in Could, guests and residents can absolutely admire the state’s pure magnificence, thriving ecosystems, and various vary of actions this month gives. The next conclusion will summarize key features of Could’s climate and its significance for North Carolina.

Conclusion

North Carolina’s climate in Could presents a dynamic transitional interval between spring and summer time. Characterised by rising temperatures, average rainfall, and rising humidity, this month gives a singular mix of nice circumstances and occasional challenges. Temperatures usually vary from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, fostering snug circumstances for numerous out of doors actions. Reasonable rainfall helps the state’s vibrant ecosystems and agricultural pursuits, whereas rising humidity contributes to the potential for afternoon thunderstorms. This era witnesses the blooming of various flora and elevated exercise amongst fauna, additional enriching the state’s pure panorama.

Comprehending North Carolina’s distinct climate patterns in Could equips residents and guests with the information needed for knowledgeable decision-making. Consciousness of potential climate fluctuations, together with occasional storms and rising humidity, permits for proactive planning and adaptation. This understanding fosters safer engagement with out of doors actions, helps efficient agricultural practices, and enhances appreciation for the intricate interaction between climate and the pure world. Recognizing the dynamic nature of Could’s climate contributes to a extra enriching and knowledgeable expertise of North Carolina’s distinctive surroundings throughout this transitional month. Additional analysis and statement of evolving climate patterns will proceed to refine understanding and improve preparedness for future Mays in North Carolina.