9+ Best NC Weather in May: Guide & Forecast


9+ Best NC Weather in May: Guide & Forecast

North Carolina in Might experiences a transition from spring to summer season, characterised by more and more heat temperatures and better humidity. Daytime highs sometimes 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 usually average and contributes to the luxurious greenery prevalent all through the state. This era marks the start of the rising season for a lot of crops and the emergence of varied wildlife.

Understanding typical local weather situations throughout this time is essential for varied 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 best suited. Traditionally, Might’s temperate local weather has performed a big position in shaping the state’s agricultural traditions and its attraction as a vacation spot for out of doors recreation.

This data supplies a foundational understanding for exploring particular points of North Carolina’s local weather in Might, together with regional variations, historic climate knowledge, and the impression of local weather change on future situations. Additional investigation will delve into subjects resembling common rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and the probability of utmost climate occasions.

1. Nice Temperatures

Nice temperatures are a defining attribute of North Carolina’s climate in Might, contributing considerably to the state’s attraction throughout this time of 12 months. This agreeable local weather fosters varied out of doors actions and influences the state’s agricultural practices.

  • Common Highs and Lows

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

  • Regional Variations

    Whereas the overall pattern is in 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 reduction from humidity.

  • Affect on Out of doors Actions

    The comfy temperatures in Might encourage participation in a wide range of out of doors pursuits. Mountain 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 Might play an important position in agriculture. This era is good for the continued development of spring crops and permits for the planting of summer season varieties. The heat promotes speedy development and growth, contributing to a profitable rising season.

These average temperatures, mixed with different favorable climate situations, place Might as a fascinating time to expertise North Carolina’s pure magnificence and contribute to the state’s thriving agricultural sector. This comfy local weather performs an important position in shaping the state’s identification and attraction.

2. Reasonable Rainfall

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

  • Common Precipitation

    Might sometimes receives a mean of 3-4 inches of rainfall distributed all through the month. This average precipitation contributes to the luxurious landscapes and supplies crucial hydration for the state’s numerous flora. Whereas variations can happen, this common supplies a common expectation for the quantity of rainfall skilled.

  • Affect on Agriculture

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

  • Water Useful resource Administration

    Might’s rainfall contributes to replenishing water assets throughout the state. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs profit from this inflow of water, supporting aquatic ecosystems and guaranteeing sufficient water provides for varied 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 acceptable preparedness measures. Understanding the potential for heavier rainfall is essential for mitigating dangers.

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

3. Rising Humidity

Rising humidity is a big attribute of North Carolina’s climate in Might, marking the transition from the milder humidity of spring to the extra humid situations of summer season. This rise in atmospheric moisture content material has a number of implications for the state’s local weather, atmosphere, and residents.

  • Dew Level and Consolation Ranges

    The dew level, a measure of atmospheric moisture, rises noticeably in Might. 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 turn into extra strenuous.

  • Affect on Precipitation Patterns

    Rising humidity contributes to the event of afternoon thunderstorms, a standard prevalence in North Carolina throughout Might. The upper moisture content material supplies the required gas for these storms, which may deliver temporary durations of heavy rain, lightning, and sometimes, hail. These storms play a task in replenishing water assets however may also disrupt out of doors actions.

  • Affect on Plant Life and Agriculture

    The elevated humidity advantages flowers by offering ample moisture for development and growth. This moisture, mixed with the hotter temperatures, creates ideally suited situations for the flourishing of varied plant species. Nonetheless, increased humidity may also create favorable situations 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 situations, notably for people with bronchial asthma or allergic reactions. 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 necessary throughout this time.

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

4. Blooming Flora

Might in North Carolina marks a interval of vibrant floral shows immediately influenced by the prevailing climate situations. The mix of warming temperatures, elevated daylight, and average rainfall creates a perfect atmosphere for a various vary of vegetation to flourish. This blooming interval contributes considerably to the state’s biodiversity and aesthetic attraction, supporting varied ecosystems and attracting vacationers.

The gentle temperatures of Might, sometimes starting from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit, present optimum situations for plant development after the cooler months. This heat, coupled with the rising daylight, triggers flowering in lots of species. The average rainfall supplies crucial 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 resembling lupine, phlox, and Indian paintbrush additionally emerge, contributing to the wealthy tapestry of the state’s pure magnificence. This abundance of blooming flora supplies very important assets for pollinators like bees and butterflies, enjoying an important position in sustaining wholesome ecosystems.

Understanding the connection between Might’s climate and blooming flora affords sensible advantages. Gardeners can make the most of this data to optimize planting schedules and choose acceptable species for his or her landscapes. Tourism industries profit from selling the state’s vibrant floral shows, attracting guests in search of 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 Might underscores the significance of sustainable practices to make sure the continued vibrancy of the state’s pure heritage.

5. Lively Fauna

Might’s climate in North Carolina triggers a surge in faunal exercise. The average temperatures and elevated meals availability create ideally suited situations for a wide range of species to thrive. Understanding this connection supplies insights into the advanced interaction between local weather and the pure world.

  • Elevated Breeding Exercise

    Many species provoke breeding throughout Might, making the most of the favorable climate situations. Amphibians, resembling 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 replica 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

    Might marks the emergence of varied species from winter hibernation or dormancy. Reptiles, like snakes and turtles, turn into extra lively as temperatures rise, basking within the solar to control 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 example, emerges from its winter dormancy and turns into lively throughout Might.

  • Elevated Foraging and Feeding

    The abundance of meals assets, together with bugs, vegetation, and fruits, permits for elevated foraging and feeding exercise amongst varied species. Mammals, resembling squirrels and deer, profit from the available vegetation. Birds discover ample insect populations to feed their younger. This heightened feeding exercise contributes to their development, replica, and total well being. The White-tailed Deer, a standard species in North Carolina, actively forages on new plant development in Might.

  • Migration and Motion

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

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

6. Longer Daylight

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

Probably the most direct results of longer daylight is the rise in photo voltaic radiation obtained by the Earth’s floor. This elevated photo voltaic vitality contributes to an increase in temperatures, warming each the air and the bottom. This warming pattern influences atmospheric circulation patterns, contributing to the event of convective thunderstorms, a standard function of North Carolina’s climate in Might. The longer daylight additionally present extra time for photosynthesis, fueling plant development 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 replica and honey manufacturing.

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

7. Occasional Storms

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

  • Sorts of Storms

    Might storms in North Carolina sometimes manifest as convective thunderstorms, pushed by the rising of heat, moist air. These storms can vary in depth from temporary showers with mild 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 several types of storms and their potential impacts is essential for preparedness.

  • Atmospheric Situations

    A number of atmospheric elements contribute to the formation of those storms. Rising humidity supplies ample moisture, whereas warming temperatures create instability within the decrease environment. 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 situations are attribute of Might’s transitional climate.

  • Affect 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 atmosphere. They contribute considerably to replenishing water assets, nourishing vegetation, and sustaining ecological steadiness. The rainfall related to these storms is important for agricultural actions and sustains the state’s numerous ecosystems. This steadiness of disruption and profit is an integral a part of North Carolina’s local weather in Might.

  • Security and Preparedness

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

The prevalence of occasional storms in North Carolina throughout Might 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 assets and ecological well being. Preparedness and consciousness are key to navigating these climate occasions and appreciating their position in shaping North Carolina’s atmosphere.

8. Transitional Interval

Might in North Carolina represents a big transitional interval between spring and summer season, 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. Essentially the most distinguished attribute of this transitional section is the regular enhance in temperatures. Common every day temperatures rise from the milder spring situations into the hotter vary typical of summer season. This warming pattern influences different atmospheric variables, together with humidity and precipitation patterns. The rising heat additionally triggers important adjustments within the state’s ecosystems, influencing plant development, animal conduct, and total ecological dynamics. As an illustration, 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 assets for pollinators.

The transitional nature of Might’s climate additionally contributes to a better 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 season additionally influences daylight, with Might experiencing a noticeable enhance in daylight length. This prolonged publicity to daylight additional contributes to the warming pattern and influences the timing of varied pure processes, together with plant development and animal exercise. Understanding the transitional nature of Might’s climate is essential for varied sectors, together with agriculture, tourism, and emergency preparedness. Farmers should adapt planting schedules to accommodate the fluctuating climate situations, whereas tourism industries have to 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 Might in North Carolina represents a dynamic interaction of atmospheric and environmental adjustments. The shift from spring to summer season brings rising temperatures, fluctuating precipitation patterns, and the potential for each nice climate and occasional storms. Recognizing this dynamic transition is important for varied sectors to adapt to the altering situations, optimize actions, and mitigate potential dangers. This understanding permits for a extra complete appreciation of Might’s climate and its significance for the state’s atmosphere and human actions.

9. Supreme Planting Time

Might’s climate in North Carolina creates optimum situations for planting varied crops, establishing it as an important interval for the state’s agricultural sector. The interaction of average temperatures, ample rainfall, and rising daylight supplies a perfect atmosphere for seed germination, seedling institution, and vigorous early development. Understanding this connection permits for knowledgeable decision-making concerning crop choice and planting schedules, contributing to profitable harvests and total agricultural productiveness.

  • Temperature Concerns

    Might’s common temperatures, sometimes starting from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit through the day and dropping to the 50s and 60s at night time, present the heat crucial for seed germination and strong seedling growth. This Goldilocks temperature rangenot too scorching, not too coldis ideally suited 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 development.

  • Rainfall and Soil Moisture

    Might’s average rainfall, averaging 3-4 inches throughout the state, supplies constant soil moisture essential for seed germination and early plant institution. This sufficient moisture reduces the necessity for supplemental irrigation, notably through the preliminary development phases. Nonetheless, well-drained soil is important to forestall waterlogging, which may negatively impression root growth. Might’s rainfall, coupled with acceptable soil administration practices, supplies a positive steadiness of moisture and aeration for optimum plant development.

  • Daylight Period and Photosynthesis

    Rising daylight in Might present ample daylight for photosynthesis, the method by which vegetation convert mild vitality into chemical vitality for development. The prolonged daylight length permits for elevated carbohydrate manufacturing, fueling strong vegetative development and setting the stage for later flowering and fruiting. This abundance of daylight is especially useful for warm-season crops that thrive below lengthy daylight situations. For instance, corn, a serious crop in North Carolina, advantages considerably from the prolonged daylight in Might, selling speedy development and maximizing yield potential.

  • Pest and Illness Administration

    Whereas Might’s climate supplies ideally suited rising situations for a lot of crops, it is necessary 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, resembling crop rotation, acceptable fertilization, and monitoring for early indicators of infestation, is essential for mitigating potential harm and guaranteeing wholesome crop growth.

The convergence of favorable temperature, rainfall, and daylight situations in Might establishes this month as the best planting time for a lot of crops in North Carolina. Understanding the interaction of those climate elements permits farmers to optimize planting schedules, choose acceptable crop varieties, and implement efficient administration methods to maximise yields and contribute to the state’s agricultural success. The shut relationship between Might’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.

Incessantly Requested Questions on North Carolina Climate in Might

This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning North Carolina’s climate in Might, 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 Might?

Daytime temperatures sometimes vary from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (low to excessive 20s Celsius), whereas nighttime lows usually 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 anticipate in North Carolina throughout Might?

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

Query 3: Is Might a moist month in North Carolina?

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

Query 4: What sort of clothes is really useful for visiting North Carolina in Might?

Gentle clothes appropriate for heat days is really useful, together with layers for cooler evenings and occasional rain showers. Comfy strolling sneakers 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 Might?

Mountain climbing, tenting, fishing, and visiting the state’s quite a few parks and gardens are in style actions in Might. The nice climate additionally supplies favorable situations for exploring the shoreline and having fun with water-based recreation.

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

Occasional thunderstorms can disrupt out of doors plans, and rising humidity can exacerbate respiratory situations. 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 Might, together with temperature ranges, rainfall patterns, and potential climate occasions, permits for knowledgeable planning and enhanced enjoyment of the state’s numerous choices throughout this nice transitional month. Preparation is essential to maximizing consolation and security.

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

Ideas for Navigating North Carolina Climate in Might

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

Tip 1: Pack Layers: Might’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 situations. Take into account packing a mixture of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a light-weight jacket.

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

Tip 3: Monitor Pollen Counts: Might is a peak season for pollen in North Carolina. People with allergic reactions ought to monitor pollen forecasts and think about taking acceptable allergy medicines. Minimizing out of doors publicity throughout peak pollen occasions 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 partaking in out of doors actions. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often.

Tip 5: Defend from the Solar: Stronger solar in Might necessitates solar safety measures. Making use of sunscreen with a excessive SPF, carrying a hat, and in search of 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: Examine Occasion Schedules: Many out of doors occasions and festivals happen in North Carolina throughout Might. 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 Might than through the summer season months, occasional thunderstorms can happen. Staying knowledgeable about climate forecasts and having a plan for in search of shelter throughout extreme climate occasions is important for security.

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

By understanding and adapting to North Carolina’s distinctive climate patterns in Might, guests and residents can absolutely recognize the state’s pure magnificence, thriving ecosystems, and numerous vary of actions this month affords. The next conclusion will summarize key points of Might’s climate and its significance for North Carolina.

Conclusion

North Carolina’s climate in Might presents a dynamic transitional interval between spring and summer season. Characterised by rising temperatures, average rainfall, and rising humidity, this month affords a singular mix of nice situations and occasional challenges. Temperatures sometimes vary from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, fostering comfy situations for varied 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 numerous flora and elevated exercise amongst fauna, additional enriching the state’s pure panorama.

Comprehending North Carolina’s distinct climate patterns in Might equips residents and guests with the information crucial 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 Might’s climate contributes to a extra enriching and knowledgeable expertise of North Carolina’s distinctive atmosphere throughout this transitional month. Additional analysis and commentary of evolving climate patterns will proceed to refine understanding and improve preparedness for future Mays in North Carolina.