May Weather in Adelaide Hills, Australia

Last updated: February 25, 2025

The Adelaide Hills in May presents a dynamic climate, characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F), while the average temperature settles at a comfortable 12°C (54°F). As cool nights set in, minimum temperatures can dip to 3°C (38°F), creating a refreshing contrast. Visitors can expect a moderate precipitation total of 47 mm (1.8 in) over approximately 9 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. With the humidity averaging around 73%, the atmosphere remains pleasantly crisp, perfect for exploring the scenic beauty and vibrant flora that flourish during this transitional month.

May Temperature in Adelaide Hills

In May, Adelaide Hills transitions into the cooler months, presenting a notable drop in temperatures compared to the sweltering heat of summer. Minimum temperatures hover around 3°C (38°F), offering a crisp start to the day, while afternoon highs can still reach a pleasant 27°C (81°F), allowing for comfortable outdoor activities. The average temperature settles at a mild 12°C (54°F), signaling the onset of autumn's embrace. This month stands out as a bridge between the warmth of spring and the chill of winter, showcasing a delightful mix of cool mornings and mild afternoons, suitable for enjoying the picturesque landscapes and wineries of the region.

May Weather in Adelaide Hills: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Adelaide Hills, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec706766615450505053586367
Data source: Temperature data for Adelaide Hills generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Adelaide Hills

In May, the Adelaide Hills experience a noticeable shift in precipitation, with 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain recorded over 9 days—a significant increase compared to previous months. This uptick marks a transition into the wetter part of the year, setting the stage for lush landscapes and vibrant plant life. As the rainfall continues into June, levels remain high with 45 mm (1.8 in) expected over 10 days, showcasing a trend of consistent moisture that supports the region's diverse ecosystems. This gradual rise in both precipitation amount and frequency highlights May as a pivotal month in the changing climatic tapestry of the South Australian hills, where the richness of nature is nourished by the welcome rains.

May Precipitation Trends in Adelaide Hills

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Adelaide Hills, with values for each month alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec152013274745596844394117
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Adelaide Hills

As May arrives in the Adelaide Hills, the region experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 73%, a substantial increase from the 66% recorded in April. This trend of escalating humidity continues from the beginning of the year, where conditions started relatively dry at 41% in January. As the summer months give way to autumn, a clear pattern emerges: humidity levels steadily climb, peaking in June and July at 76%. Following this peak, humidity gently recedes into the drier months of spring and summer, where levels drop to around 51% by October. This cyclical fluctuation underscores the unique climatic rhythm of the Adelaide Hills, offering a vivid sense of seasonal transition.

May Average Humidity in Adelaide Hills

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Adelaide Hills, with May's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how May's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec41%46%55%66%73%76%76%70%65%51%50%46%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Adelaide Hills

As we transition into May in the Adelaide Hills, Australia, the UV Index dips to a moderate 5, offering a welcome respite from the extreme levels experienced during the peak summer months. With a burn time of 30 minutes, this month marks a significant shift from the earlier months' extreme exposure category, where UV indices soared as high as 14 in January. The gradual decline from extreme to moderate indicates a safer time for outdoor activities, although sun protection remains advisable. As winter looms, the UV index continues to trend lower, suggesting that while May allows for more extended sun exposure, vigilance is still key. For more detailed insights, visit Adelaide Hills UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Adelaide Hills for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Adelaide Hills in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141312853458101315
Data source: Adelaide Hills May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Adelaide Hills

In the Adelaide Hills of Australia, May brings a gentle shift in sunshine, with 233 hours of daylight illuminating the landscape. This marks a decline from the vibrant days of late summer and early autumn, where March enjoyed a peak of 307 hours. As the region transitions into the cooler months, a noticeable pattern emerges; sunlight hours gradually decrease from January's 293 hours to June's 221 hours. Despite this, May still offers a delightful ambiance, hinting at the lingering warmth of the past months while embracing the crispness of winter. The consistent ebb and flow of sunlight hours throughout the year not only shapes the local flora but also defines the unique charm of the Adelaide Hills.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Adelaide Hills: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Adelaide Hills experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec293h297h307h256h233h221h237h248h275h300h312h353h
Data source: Adelaide Hills May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Adelaide Hills During May

In the picturesque Adelaide Hills, May marks a notable shift in weather patterns, presenting a 40% chance of sunny days. This reflects a decline from the sunnier months of January through April, which consistently enjoy probabilities hovering around the 58% to 60% range. As the season transitions into winter, the likelihood of sunshine further diminishes into June and July, where it drops to just 35%. Despite this downward trend, August offers a modest rebound at 51%, hinting that while May may not be the sunniest month, the region does experience brief sunny interludes that provide a pleasant respite before the colder months settle in.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Adelaide Hills

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Adelaide Hills throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Adelaide Hills experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec58%60%60%59%40%35%36%51%53%49%42%71%
Data source: Adelaide Hills May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Adelaide Hills in May

In the picturesque Adelaide Hills, daylight duration elegantly ebbs and flows throughout the year, showcasing the rhythmic dance of the seasons. Starting with a generous 14 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually shorten as summer transitions into autumn. February still boasts 13 hours, but by March, daylight dips to 12 hours. As April gives way to May, the sun sets even earlier, resulting in just 10 hours of daylight this month. Interestingly, daylight duration stabilizes at 10 hours during July and August, indicating a brief reprieve before the gradual return of longer days. By September, daylight begins to increase once more, climbing back to 13 hours by November and reaching a peak again in December. This cyclical pattern reflects the enchanting progressions of nature, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor each unique phase of light throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Adelaide Hills for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Adelaide Hills throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 11m13h 20m12h 16m11h 10m10h 16m9h 49m10h 2m10h 49m11h 52m12h 57m13h 56m14h 27m
Data source: Adelaide Hills daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Adelaide Hills

In May, the Adelaide Hills experience a notable shift in wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph). This slight uptick from April's 2.9 m/s (6 mph) reflects a trend of increasing winds as winter approaches, setting the stage for the breezier months ahead. Following May, June typically sees a rise to 3.9 m/s (9 mph), suggesting a gradual intensification of gusts. Overall, the wind speeds during this transitional period are moderate yet vital for shaping the region's climate, offering a refreshing touch to the crisp autumn air.

Average May Wind Speed in Adelaide Hills

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Adelaide Hills, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.73.63.02.93.4 m/s3.94.73.74.13.73.93.5
Data source: Adelaide Hills May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Adelaide Hills Compares to Other Months

The weather in Adelaide Hills changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Adelaide Hills and find detailed weather information for every month.

When comparing the weather between May and January, notable differences emerge. May experiences milder temperatures, with minimums around 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), while January boasts significantly higher averages, with minimums of 9°C (49°F) and maximums soaring to 45°C (114°F). Additionally, May is characterized by a higher level of precipitation, averaging 47 mm (1.8 in) over approximately 9 days, compared to January's much drier conditions, which see only 15 mm (0.6 in) across just 2 days. The humidity levels also contrast, with May being more humid at 73%, compared to January's drier 41%. For more information on the specifics of January in the region, check out Adelaide Hills weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F), while February boasts warmer conditions, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in May, with 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days, compared to February’s milder 19 mm (0.8 in) across just 3 days. Furthermore, May's humidity is higher at 73%, contrasting with February's more comfortable 46%. For more details, you can check the Adelaide Hills weather in February.

When comparing the weather in March and May, March showcases significantly higher temperatures with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), peaking at a scorching 39°C (103°F). In contrast, May offers cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Additionally, March experiences much less precipitation, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) over just three days, while May sees more moisture with 47 mm (1.8 in) spread across nine days. Humidity levels also differ, as May has a higher average humidity at 73%, compared to 55% in March. For more specific insights into March weather, you can refer to Adelaide Hills weather in March.

The weather in May shows a noticeable shift compared to April, with minimum temperatures dropping slightly from 5°C (41°F) in April to 3°C (38°F) in May. Although May’s average temperature is lower at 12°C (54°F), it features a wide maximum range of up to 27°C (81°F), suggesting warmer days amidst cooler nights. In contrast, April experiences a warmer average of 16°C (61°F) and peaks at a higher maximum of 35°C (95°F).

Precipitation also differs significantly, with May recording 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days of rain, compared to April’s lighter 27 mm (1.0 in) across just 4 days. Additionally, humidity in May rises to 73%, slightly above April’s 66%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Adelaide Hills weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we observe a noticeable shift in temperatures. May boasts a higher average temperature of 12°C (54°F), with maximum temperatures reaching up to 27°C (81°F). In contrast, June sees a cooler average of 10°C (50°F), with maximum temperatures limited to 20°C (68°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with May recording 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days and June slightly lower at 45 mm (1.8 in) across 10 days. Humidity also increases from May's 73% to June's 76%, indicating a trend towards a more damp atmosphere. For a detailed look at June weather patterns, you can visit Adelaide Hills weather in June.

May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range more widely with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while July's temperatures are cooler, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, May experiences 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, whereas July has slightly more rain at 59 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days, contributing to its higher humidity of 76% compared to May's 73%. For more detailed insights into July weather, you can check out Adelaide Hills weather in July.

In May, temperatures in the Adelaide Hills range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 27°C (81°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month sees moderate precipitation, averaging 47 mm (1.8 in) over about 9 days, coupled with a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, August brings cooler weather, with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging at 10°C (50°F). This month experiences slightly higher precipitation, totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 70%. For more detailed weather specifics, you can check Adelaide Hills weather in August.

May and September present similar average temperatures, both sitting at around 12°C (54°F), but the monthly extremes highlight some differences. In May, temperatures range from a cool 3°C (38°F) to a warm 27°C (81°F), while September experiences a slightly broader range with minimums at 1°C (34°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with May receiving 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days and September slightly lower at 44 mm (1.7 in) over 10 days. Additionally, the humidity in May is higher at 73%, compared to September's more comfortable 65%. For more details, check out the Adelaide Hills weather in September.

May and October in the Adelaide Hills present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 3°C (38°F) to a warm 27°C (81°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The region experiences about 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 73%. In contrast, October sees a slightly warmer temperature range, with minimums of 4°C (39°F) and maximums climbing up to 35°C (95°F), averaging at 14°C (58°F). Precipitation decreases to 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 7 days, and the humidity drops significantly to 51%. For more details on the October climate, check out Adelaide Hills weather in October.

In May, temperatures in the Adelaide Hills range from a cool minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at a comfortable 27°C (81°F). The month sees about 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 73%. In contrast, November experiences milder weather with minimum temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), soaring to highs of 41°C (105°F). The precipitation decreases slightly to 41 mm (1.6 in) over just 7 days, and humidity drops to 50%. For more details on the November climate, you can check Adelaide Hills weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a milder average of 12°C (54°F) during the day, peaking at 27°C (81°F). This month also sees more precipitation, with about 47 mm (1.8 in) falling over 9 days and higher humidity levels at 73%. In contrast, December is significantly warmer, with nighttime lows at 6°C (44°F) and daytime averages around 19°C (67°F), reaching highs of 43°C (109°F). Precipitation drops to just 17 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, and humidity decreases to 46%. For more details, you can check Adelaide Hills weather in December.

Compare Adelaide Hills's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Adelaide Hills

In May, the Adelaide Hills experience a delightful transition as temperatures cool from the warmer months, with an average around 12°C (54°F) and notable highs reaching 27°C (81°F). This month marks a shift, as rainfall becomes more frequent, with precipitation occurring on about nine days and totaling 47 mm (1.8 in). The humidity also rises, averaging 73%, giving the air a crisp freshness that's characteristic of autumn. Compared to other months, May brings a unique blend of brisk days and cozy evenings, making it a perfect time to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the region. For a deeper insight into the seasonal shifts, explore the full details at Adelaide Hills Climate.