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 season, 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 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 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 figuring out what apparel to pack and which outside actions are best suited. Traditionally, Could’s temperate local weather has performed a major function in shaping the state’s agricultural traditions and its enchantment as a vacation spot for outside recreation.

This data supplies a foundational understanding for exploring particular elements of North Carolina’s local weather in Could, together with regional variations, historic climate information, and the affect of local weather change on future circumstances. Additional investigation will delve into matters comparable to 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 Could, contributing considerably to the state’s enchantment throughout this time of 12 months. This agreeable local weather fosters numerous outside 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 many of the state. Nighttime lows usually settle within the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10s to excessive teenagers Celsius). This average temperature vary supplies comfy circumstances for each daytime excursions and night leisure.

  • Regional Variations

    Whereas the overall pattern 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.

  • Affect on Outside Actions

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

  • Agricultural Significance

    The nice temperatures of Could play an important function in agriculture. This era is right for the continued progress of spring crops and permits for the planting of summer season varieties. The heat promotes fast 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 comfy local weather performs an important function 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 total 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 luxurious landscapes and supplies vital hydration for the state’s various flora. Whereas variations can happen, this common supplies a basic expectation for the quantity of rainfall skilled.

  • Affect on Agriculture

    Reasonable rainfall performs an important function in supporting North Carolina’s agricultural actions. It supplies 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 assets throughout the state. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs profit from this inflow of water, supporting aquatic ecosystems and making certain enough 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 intervals 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 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 assets and preparedness for infrequent heavy rainfall occasions. This steadiness of constant moisture and occasional heavier precipitation shapes the surroundings and influences numerous actions inside the state.

3. Growing Humidity

Growing 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 season. 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 may 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 outside exertion can change into extra strenuous.

  • Affect on Precipitation Patterns

    Growing humidity contributes to the event of afternoon thunderstorms, a typical incidence in North Carolina throughout Could. The upper moisture content material supplies the required gas for these storms, which might carry temporary intervals of heavy rain, lightning, and sometimes, hail. These storms play a task in replenishing water assets however may also disrupt outside actions.

  • Affect 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 perfect circumstances for the flourishing of assorted plant species. Nevertheless, 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, notably for people with bronchial asthma or allergic reactions. The moist air may also contribute to the expansion of mildew and mildew, which might additional affect 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 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 elements permits for higher adaptation to the altering climate circumstances and knowledgeable decision-making relating to outside actions and well being precautions.

4. Blooming Flora

Could in North Carolina marks a interval of vibrant floral shows instantly influenced by the prevailing climate circumstances. The mix of warming temperatures, elevated daylight, and average rainfall creates a really perfect 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 daylight, triggers flowering in lots of species. The average rainfall supplies vital 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 comparable to 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 function 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 acceptable species for his or her landscapes. Tourism industries profit from selling the state’s vibrant floral shows, attracting guests searching 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 perfect circumstances for a wide range of species to thrive. Understanding this connection supplies 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, comparable to frogs and salamanders, make the most of the plentiful 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 typical 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, change into extra energetic 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 energetic throughout Could.

  • Elevated Foraging and Feeding

    The abundance of meals assets, together with bugs, vegetation, and fruits, permits for elevated foraging and feeding exercise amongst numerous species. Mammals, comparable to 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 total well being. The White-tailed Deer, a typical 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 manner north or set up breeding territories inside the state. The favorable climate and plentiful meals assets make it a really perfect stopover level for migrating birds. For instance, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird migrates via North Carolina throughout Could, searching 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 daylight are a defining attribute of Could in North Carolina, instantly 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 season solstice. This prolonged publicity to daylight has profound penalties for the state’s local weather and surroundings.

One of the direct results of longer daylight is the rise in photo voltaic radiation obtained 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 pattern influences atmospheric circulation patterns, contributing to the event of convective thunderstorms, a typical characteristic of North Carolina’s climate in Could. The longer daylight 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 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 outside actions and appeal to guests. Moreover, this understanding permits for higher power administration, because the elevated daylight may be utilized for solar energy technology, decreasing reliance on conventional power sources. The interaction between longer daylight and climate in Could 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 Could, arising from the interaction of accelerating temperatures, humidity, and atmospheric instability. These storms, whereas usually temporary, contribute considerably to the state’s rainfall totals and may often pose challenges to outside actions and infrastructure.

  • Forms 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 temporary showers with mild wind and thunder to extra extreme thunderstorms producing heavy downpours, sturdy 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. Growing humidity supplies 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 transferring via the area may also provoke or intensify storm exercise. These dynamic atmospheric circumstances are attribute of Could’s transitional climate.

  • Affect on Native Surroundings

    Whereas occasional storms can disrupt outside plans and trigger momentary inconveniences, additionally they play an important function within the native surroundings. They contribute considerably to replenishing water assets, nourishing vegetation, and sustaining ecological steadiness. The rainfall related to these storms is crucial 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 crucial for minimizing potential dangers. Monitoring climate forecasts, having a plan for searching for shelter throughout extreme climate, and being conscious of potential hazards comparable to lightning strikes and flash floods are essential security measures. Understanding the potential for extreme climate and taking acceptable precautions can mitigate the unfavorable 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 carry momentary 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 function in shaping North Carolina’s surroundings.

8. Transitional Interval

Could in North Carolina represents a major transitional interval between spring and summer season, characterised by dynamic shifts in climate patterns. This transition is just not merely a chronological shift however a posh interaction of atmospheric and environmental adjustments that form the state’s local weather throughout this month. Essentially the most outstanding attribute of this transitional part is the regular enhance in temperatures. Common each day temperatures rise from the milder spring circumstances 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 progress, animal habits, and total 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 assets 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 intervals of heavier precipitation and occasional extreme thunderstorms. These storms, fueled by rising humidity and atmospheric instability, can carry heavy downpours, sturdy winds, and hail. The shift from spring to summer season additionally influences daylight, with Could experiencing a noticeable enhance in daylight period. This prolonged publicity to daylight additional contributes to the warming pattern 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 potential 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 season brings rising temperatures, fluctuating precipitation patterns, and the potential for each nice climate and occasional storms. Recognizing this dynamic transition is crucial 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. Splendid Planting Time

Could’s climate in North Carolina creates optimum circumstances for planting numerous 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 really perfect surroundings for seed germination, seedling institution, and vigorous early progress. Understanding this connection permits for knowledgeable decision-making relating to crop choice and planting schedules, contributing to profitable harvests and total 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 vital for seed germination and sturdy seedling growth. This Goldilocks temperature rangenot too sizzling, not too coldis perfect 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, supplies constant soil moisture essential for seed germination and early plant institution. This enough moisture reduces the necessity for supplemental irrigation, notably in the course of the preliminary progress phases. Nevertheless, well-drained soil is crucial to stop waterlogging, which might negatively affect root growth. Could’s rainfall, coupled with acceptable soil administration practices, supplies a positive steadiness of moisture and aeration for optimum plant progress.

  • Daylight Length and Photosynthesis

    Growing daylight in Could present ample daylight for photosynthesis, the method by which vegetation convert mild 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 underneath lengthy daylight circumstances. For instance, corn, a significant crop in North Carolina, advantages considerably from the prolonged daylight in Could, selling fast progress and maximizing yield potential.

  • Pest and Illness Administration

    Whereas Could’s climate supplies perfect 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, comparable to crop rotation, acceptable fertilization, and monitoring for early indicators of infestation, is essential for mitigating potential harm and making certain wholesome crop growth.

The convergence of favorable temperature, rainfall, and daylight circumstances in Could 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 Could’s climate and planting selections underscores the significance of local weather consciousness in agricultural planning and highlights the essential function of climate in shaping North Carolina’s agricultural panorama.

Regularly Requested Questions on North Carolina Climate in Could

This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to 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 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 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. Nevertheless, 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 season. This rise in humidity contributes to the notion of hotter temperatures and may affect the formation of afternoon thunderstorms.

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

Gentle clothes appropriate for heat days is advisable, together with layers for cooler evenings and occasional rain showers. Comfy strolling sneakers are advisable for exploring the outside.

Query 5: What are some fashionable outside actions to get pleasure from in North Carolina throughout Could?

Mountaineering, tenting, fishing, and visiting the state’s quite a few parks and gardens are fashionable actions in Could. The nice climate additionally supplies 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 outside plans, and rising humidity can exacerbate respiratory circumstances. Being ready for each heat, sunny days and the potential 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 essential to maximizing consolation and security.

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

Ideas 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 suggestions supply 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 light-weight jacket.

Tip 2: Be Ready for Rain: Reasonable rainfall is typical in Could. 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: Could 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 outside publicity throughout peak pollen instances may also alleviate allergy signs.

Tip 4: Keep Hydrated: Growing temperatures and humidity can result in dehydration. Consuming loads of water all through the day is crucial, particularly when participating in outside actions. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it continuously.

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

Tip 6: Examine Occasion Schedules: Many outside occasions and festivals happen in North Carolina throughout Could. Checking schedules upfront 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 season months, occasional thunderstorms can happen. Staying knowledgeable about climate forecasts and having a plan for searching for shelter throughout extreme climate occasions is crucial for security.

Observing the following tips facilitates comfy and protected experiences in North Carolina throughout Could, enabling knowledgeable engagement with the state’s dynamic climate patterns and various outside 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 Could, guests and residents can totally respect the state’s pure magnificence, thriving ecosystems, and various vary of actions this month gives. The next conclusion will summarize key elements 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 season. Characterised by rising temperatures, average rainfall, and rising humidity, this month gives a novel mix of nice circumstances and occasional challenges. Temperatures usually vary from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, fostering comfy circumstances for numerous outside 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 data vital 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 outside 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 commentary of evolving climate patterns will proceed to refine understanding and improve preparedness for future Mays in North Carolina.