If you’re planning for Memorial Day in Virginia, you’ll probably keep one eye on the sky and the other on your calendar. The holiday lands right at that awkward spot between spring and summer, so weather can swing from mild and sunny to unexpectedly cool and damp. Most years, daytime temperatures hover in the 70s or low 80s, and nights drop into the 50s or 60s. Scattered showers? Yeah, those happen too.
Where you spend the holiday really changes your experience. Coastal spots like Norfolk feel stickier and breezier, thanks to the water, while inland places—think Richmond or Arlington—tend to be warmer and less windy.
If you’re in the mountains, expect cooler air. Outdoor plans can feel totally different depending on your location.
Since Memorial Day weather in Virginia usually brings a mix of sun and passing rain, it’s smart to keep plans flexible. Light jackets, umbrellas, and layering up can make those cookouts or hikes a lot more comfortable.
You never really know what you’re going to get, but being prepared helps you enjoy the day, rain or shine.
Typical Memorial Day Weather in Virginia
Late May in Virginia usually brings warm afternoons and mild nights. Passing rain showers are pretty common, so you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast.
The air feels a bit humid, and you’ll probably see a mix of sun and clouds—depends on where you are in the state.
Average Temperatures in Late May
By Memorial Day, most of Virginia feels like summer’s already here. Central and eastern areas often see highs in the upper 70s to low 80s°F (25–28°C).
Head west to the mountains, and it cools off a bit. Highs there usually stay in the low to mid-70s°F (21–24°C).
Evenings feel pretty pleasant. Nighttime lows drop to the mid-50s°F (12–14°C) in the highlands, and to the low 60s°F (16–17°C) by the coast.
That’s just about perfect for a barbecue or a walk on the beach—not too hot, not too chilly.
Virginia Beach and Tidewater areas warm up fast in late May. The air feels mild, but the Atlantic stays cold—water temps near 60°F (15–16°C) can make swimming a bit of a shock.
Rainfall Patterns and Precipitation
Rain around Memorial Day isn’t rare, but it’s usually on the lighter side. Norfolk averages about 0.15 inches of rain on the holiday, though some years have seen more.
Most showers show up as quick bursts in the afternoon or evening. You’ll rarely get an all-day washout.
Thunderstorms? Yep, especially in the Piedmont and Tidewater regions. They’re scattered and don’t last long, but they can dump rain fast.
Mountains see less rain, but sudden showers still pop up thanks to spring’s changing weather.
If you’re hosting outside, have a canopy or some cover ready. That can save your plans from a passing shower.
Humidity and Cloud Cover Trends
Humidity starts creeping up in late May, but it’s not as bad as July. You’ll notice moderate humidity, enough to make afternoons feel warmer but not unbearable.
Cloud cover really depends on where you are. The coast gets more passing clouds because of the sea breeze. Inland, mornings might start clear, but clouds build in the afternoon.
This can mean partly cloudy skies that change fast.
Mornings usually bring clearer skies, so early outings are a good bet. By late afternoon, warmth and moisture can turn things hazy or bring those scattered showers.
Regional Weather Variations Across Virginia
Memorial Day weather in Virginia changes a lot depending on where you are. Temperatures, rainfall, and humidity can shift between inland cities, the coast, and the mountains.
Your experience might change completely with just a short drive.
Weather in Richmond and Central Virginia
In Richmond and central Virginia, late May brings warm afternoons and mild mornings. Highs usually reach the upper 70s to low 80s °F.
At night, it cools off to the upper 50s or low 60s.
Humidity rises during the day, especially before a shower. Rain isn’t constant, but short thunderstorms do happen.
On average, May brings about 3–4 inches of rain, so a light rain jacket isn’t a bad idea.
Skies are often partly cloudy, so you’ll get a mix of sun and shade. Outdoor events usually feel comfortable, but plan for warm sun in the day and cooler air after sunset.
Coastal Conditions Near the Atlantic Ocean and Virginia Beach
Near Virginia Beach and the ocean, the air feels more humid than inland. Daytime highs stay in the upper 70s to low 80s °F.
The sea breeze can make afternoons feel cooler than in Richmond.
Morning and evening temps hang in the 60s. Humidity stays high, so it can feel sticky.
Rain chances go up a bit, and quick showers sometimes move in from the ocean.
The coast gets more wind. Breezes off the Atlantic can hit 10–15 mph, making beach days more comfortable.
But storms offshore can roll in and bring quick downpours, so it pays to check the radar if you’ve got outdoor plans.
Mountain Weather in the Blue Ridge Mountains
In the Blue Ridge Mountains, Memorial Day feels cooler than the coast or central Virginia. Afternoon highs usually land in the upper 60s to mid-70s °F.
Nights can dip into the upper 40s or low 50s.
Rain falls less often than at the coast, but when it does, it sometimes pours in short bursts. Mountain storms tend to show up in the afternoon and fade by evening.
Higher elevation means lower humidity, so hiking or camping feels more comfortable.
Skies are often clearer, but fog can settle in valleys early in the morning, especially after a rainy night.
Rain Showers and Light Rain: What to Expect
Rain on Memorial Day in Virginia isn’t unusual, but it rarely lasts long or falls hard. Light rain and scattered showers show up more often and can affect your outdoor plans.
Frequency of Rain Showers
If you look at the records, about one-third of Memorial Days in Virginia have seen rain. Norfolk averages only 0.15 inches of rainfall on the holiday.
Most years, you’ll get little or no measurable rain, but brief showers still pop up.
You’re more likely to run into light rain or a passing shower than a steady downpour. These usually form in the afternoon or evening when daytime heating stirs things up.
Extreme rainfall is rare on Memorial Day. The wettest ever in Norfolk brought just over 1.5 inches, which stands out compared to the usual light amounts.
So, you should expect short-lived interruptions, not a full day of rain. Showers are often tied to scattered thunderstorms, but many spots stay dry even when nearby towns get wet.
Impact on Outdoor Activities
Light rain or a passing shower might delay things for 20–30 minutes, but it rarely cancels an event completely.
You’ll want to stay flexible. Try these tips:
- Bring a canopy or umbrella for shade and rain.
- Keep a backup indoor option if you’re hosting.
- Check the radar to watch for showers.
Since showers are scattered, one town might get rain while the next stays dry.
Mornings are usually safer for outdoor plans, as rain chances rise later in the day. If you prep for light rain, you can still enjoy most activities without much hassle.
Influence of Geography on Memorial Day Weather
Virginia’s Memorial Day weather bounces between warm, humid spells and cooler, unsettled patterns. The state’s geography—caught between the Atlantic to the east and the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west—shapes everything from temperature to rainfall.
Effects of the Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic helps keep eastern Virginia’s temperatures in check. Coastal places like Virginia Beach and Norfolk feel milder than inland spots.
Water warms and cools slower than land, so late May air along the coast hangs out in the 70s, while inland may push into the 80s.
Humidity’s a big factor too. Moist air off the ocean bumps up the chance of afternoon showers and storms, especially when warm air rises over land.
Barbecues or beach days can feel sticky, even if it doesn’t actually rain.
Rainfall patterns near the coast are all over the place. A weak sea breeze can spark quick storms, and bigger systems moving up the coast can bring steady rain.
Coastal Virginia sees about a 30–40% chance of rain on Memorial Day, which is more than areas farther west.
Role of the Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains create their own weather for western Virginia. Higher spots, like Roanoke or Shenandoah National Park, usually stay a few degrees cooler than the Piedmont or Tidewater.
A late-May afternoon in the mountains might only hit the upper 60s, while lowlands climb into the 80s.
The mountains block moist air from the east. Air rises up the slopes, causing more showers and storms on the windward side. The leeward side often stays drier thanks to the rain shadow.
If you’re heading outdoors in the mountains, get ready for quick weather shifts.
A sunny morning can turn stormy by afternoon, especially on ridge tops. Nights cool off fast, sometimes dipping into the 50s even when the rest of Virginia stays warmer.
Historical Weather Data and Trends
Memorial Day weather in Virginia has run the gamut, from chilly and wet to warm and sunny. Looking at past records gives you a sense of what’s possible—and what’s typical.
Notable Past Memorial Day Weather Events
Weather records show that Memorial Day in Virginia can look totally different each year. In Richmond, some years saw highs in the upper 80s, while others barely made it out of the 60s with clouds overhead.
Norfolk has picked up rain on the holiday, with the wettest year topping 1.5 inches.
Sudden thunderstorms aren’t rare. Warm, humid air in late May often sparks afternoon storms that can mess with outdoor plans, but they usually move out fast.
Some Memorial Days have been just about perfect. Sunny skies, highs in the mid-70s or low 80s—those years make outdoor gatherings a breeze.
Long-Term Climate Patterns in Virginia
Virginia’s late May climate sits right on the edge between spring and summer. Richmond’s average highs range from 78°F to 82°F, and lows usually fall between 57°F and 62°F.
Coastal spots like Norfolk stay a bit cooler at night, thanks to the ocean.
Rainfall for May averages 3–4 inches, but Memorial Day itself usually sees only light amounts. Still, a passing shower or storm is always a possibility.
Over the years, data shows a gradual warming trend. Late May now leans warmer than it did decades ago.
You’re more likely to get warm, humid weather than a cool, springlike holiday.
Humidity plays a part too. Higher moisture brings those frequent afternoon storms, especially in eastern Virginia.
These patterns make Memorial Day weather a mix of comfort and unpredictability.
Travel and Packing Tips for Memorial Day in Virginia
Afternoons usually feel warm, with temps hitting the upper 70s or low 80s. Evenings cool down into the 60s, and you might get a rain shower or two.
If you pack light, flexible clothes and toss in a few weather-ready essentials, you’ll probably stay comfortable whether you’re hanging out in Richmond or heading to Virginia Beach.
Recommended Clothing and Gear
Bring a mix of lightweight daytime wear and layers for evenings. Richmond’s humidity makes short sleeves, shorts, or easy-breathing dresses a good bet.
If you’re at Virginia Beach, you’ll want a swimsuit, sandals, and a cover-up, especially when the breeze kicks up near the water.
Pack 1–2 pairs of shorts or light pants and 3–4 tops with different sleeve lengths. Toss in at least one light jacket or sweater for cooler times.
If you’ll be walking a lot, grab your favorite sneakers. For the beach, water-friendly sandals are just easier.
Here’s what I’d call essentials:
- Swimsuit for the beach or hotel pool
- Hat and sunglasses to keep the sun at bay
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
- Casual evening outfit in case you go out to a restaurant or an event
A small backpack or crossbody bag makes day trips simpler, whether you’re in town or by the coast.
Definitely don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent, since most of us end up outdoors a lot during Memorial Day weekend.
Planning for Unpredictable Weather
Virginia’s late May weather? It can change in a heartbeat. One minute, Richmond basks in sunshine, but by evening, a storm might roll in. Virginia Beach usually feels breezy, and honestly, showers can surprise you. Pack for both sun and rain, just to be safe.
I always toss in a packable rain jacket. It keeps you dry during quick showers and works as a light layer when the air cools down at night. You could bring an umbrella, but let’s be real, those coastal winds love to flip them inside out. A jacket just works better.
If you’re planning to be outdoors, go for moisture-wicking fabrics. Humidity makes heavy clothes feel sticky and uncomfortable. I’d also suggest shoes that dry quickly or at least resist water, especially if you’re hiking or hanging out near the shore.
Check the local forecast before you head out. Still, always bring at least one flexible layer. You never know when the temperature will drop after sunset or a storm will sneak up on you.