May Weather in Churchill, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

In May, Churchill, Canada experiences a notable transition as temperatures gradually rise, with a maximum of 16°C (62°F) and an average temperature hovering around -1°C (30°F). The chill remains apparent as the minimum dips to -14°C (6°F), inviting a mix of spring and lingering winter. Residents can expect 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 8 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 82%. This combination of chilly air and moisture underscores the unique climate of this northern community during the month, creating an atmosphere ripe for exploration and appreciation of its rugged beauty.

May Temperature in Churchill

In May, Churchill, Canada, begins to shake off the remnants of winter, showcasing a remarkable transition in temperatures. With a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and a maximum reaching a pleasant 16°C (62°F), the average temperature hovers around -1°C (30°F), signaling a gradual warming trend. This shift is striking compared to the frigid depths of January and February, where temperatures plummet to as low as -41°C (-42°F). As spring progresses, the icy grip weakens, allowing for balmier days, making May a refreshing precursor to the warm summer months ahead. Such changes not only transform the landscape but also invite both locals and visitors to revel in the rejuvenating embrace of springtime in Churchill.

May Weather in Churchill: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Churchill, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec-11-130142942545545339-6
Data source: Temperature data for Churchill 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 Churchill

May in Churchill, Canada, marks a significant transition in the precipitation landscape as the region experiences an uptick in rainfall, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days. This increase from the 31 mm recorded in both March and April highlights a shift toward more dynamic spring weather, setting the stage for the heavier rains that follow in the summer months. The consistent rise in precipitation, peaking in August at 106 mm, showcases Churchill’s progression from the frosty grip of winter into a season characterized by lively weather patterns. As nature awakens, May’s showers not only contribute to lush greenery but also pave the way for the vibrant ecosystems that flourish during the warmer months ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Churchill

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Churchill, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1521313147416410684653727
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Churchill

As spring transitions into summer, May in Churchill, Canada, experiences a slight dip in humidity, dropping to 82% from April's 85%. This gradual decrease marks the beginning of a trend that offers a reprieve from the bone-chilling dampness characteristic of the winter months, where humidity levels soar above 90%. However, as summer progresses into July and August, the humidity begins to creep back up, reminding us of Churchill's proximity to Hudson Bay. Through May, the shift in humidity not only heralds warmer temperatures but also sets the stage for the vibrant life that unfolds in the warmer months, making it an intriguing time to witness the area's unique ecosystem.

May Average Humidity in Churchill

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Churchill, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec96%92%89%85%82%83%85%89%86%92%93%99%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Churchill

In May, Churchill, Canada experiences a significant surge in the UV Index, reaching 8, which categorizes it as very high and reduces the burn time to just 15 minutes. This dramatic increase from the earlier months, where the UV levels were low in January and February, highlights the shift towards summer. April already showed a jump to 6, but May’s levels mark a turning point, indicating the importance of sun protection as outdoor activities ramp up. As summer approaches, the trend continues, with June peaking at 9. For those planning their time in the sun, it's crucial to stay informed about these indices to enjoy the beautiful surroundings safely. More detailed information can be found at the Churchill UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Churchill for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Churchill 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123689764211
Data source: Churchill 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 Churchill

In Churchill, Canada, the month of May heralds a delightful transition as sunshine becomes more abundant, offering 243 hours of radiant daylight. Following a steady increase from the chilly depths of winter, where January recorded just 92 hours of sunshine, May continues the upward trend established in the previous months. The gradual buildup is evident, with April showcasing 274 hours, yet May still manages to maintain a vibrant energy as the days grow longer. This pattern of increasing sunshine culminates in June, when the sun fully embraces Churchill with an impressive 299 hours. As the seasons shift, May serves as a pivotal month, bridging the cooler spring months into the warm embrace of summer, inviting both locals and travelers to bask in the natural beauty of this unique northern landscape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Churchill: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Churchill 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec92h174h235h274h243h299h349h256h157h115h101h91h
Data source: Churchill May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Churchill During May

As May arrives in Churchill, Canada, the likelihood of basking in sunny weather remains modest, with the chance of sunshine hovering around 15%. This figure, while slightly lower than the spring months preceding it, reflects a gradual increase in sunlit days as the year progresses. Notably, compared to the more dismal conditions of winter, May offers a breath of fresh air, marking a transition toward sunnier skies in June, when the probability climbs to 23%. Despite the potentially overcast May days, the emerging warmth heralds the vibrant summer ahead, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the changing season.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Churchill

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Churchill 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 Churchill experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%14%17%23%15%23%43%34%21%27%11%10%
Data source: Churchill May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Churchill in May

As spring blooms into summer in Churchill, Canada, the daylight duration transforms dramatically, showcasing nature’s rhythm. In May, residents bask in 16 hours of sunlight, a vibrant increase from 14 hours in April, heralding the longer days of summer. This ascent continues into June, where daylight peaks at 18 hours, allowing for ample time to explore the stunning landscapes. However, as the seasons shift towards autumn, daylight starts to recede: July and August see smaller declines, with 17 and 15 hours respectively, before tapering off to 12 hours in September. The decline quickens into the darker months, plunging back to 7 hours in November and a mere 6 hours by December. This captivating cycle of light and shadow is a defining feature of life in Churchill, marking the passage of time with each season's embrace.

Average Daylight Hours in Churchill for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Churchill throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 7m9h 19m11h 53m14h 31m16h 55m18h 16m17h 31m15h 17m12h 43m10h 7m7h 43m6h 21m
Data source: Churchill daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Churchill

In May, Churchill experiences a mild average wind speed of 6.2 m/s (14 mph), a continuation of the breezy conditions that began in April. This month marks a slight decline from the previous month’s peak, yet it remains consistent with the annual trend of gentle yet invigorating winds typical for springtime. Surrounded by the stunning Arctic landscape, these steady winds add a dynamic element to the air, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace outdoor activities. As temperatures rise, the winds in May are a refreshing reminder of the transitional nature of the season, bridging the chill of winter with the warmth of approaching summer.

Average May Wind Speed in Churchill

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Churchill, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.56.76.27.16.2 m/s5.56.35.96.36.56.15.9
Data source: Churchill May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Churchill Compares to Other Months

The weather in Churchill 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 Churchill and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -14°C (6°F) at night to a more pleasant max of 16°C (62°F) during the day, alongside an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, with 47 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days and a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, January is far colder, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and an average around -24°C (-10°F). While January is drier, with only 15 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over just 3 days, it has a high humidity of 96%. For more specific details on January weather, you can check Churchill weather in January.

May and February present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -14°C (6°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average of -1°C (30°F). This month sees a total precipitation of 47 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, February features much harsher conditions, with minimum temperatures plummeting to a frigid -41°C (-42°F) and an average of -25°C (-13°F). The maximum temperature barely reaches -3°C (26°F), and with only 21 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation spread over 4 days, the humidity is higher at 92%. For a more detailed look at February weather in this region, check out Churchill weather in February.

In comparing the weather between May and March, May presents significantly milder temperatures, with a range from a minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), while March remains much colder, plummeting to -36°C (-32°F) at its lowest and only reaching a maximum of 3°C (38°F). The average temperature in May is a more comfortable -1°C (30°F), contrasting sharply with March's average of -18°C (1°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation over eight days, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in), compared to March's 31 mm (1.2 in) over just four days. Humidity also plays a role; while May's humidity is slightly lower at 82%, March maintains a higher level of 89%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can refer to Churchill weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, it's evident that temperatures rise significantly in May. While April experiences a minimum of -28°C (-17°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F), May shows a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), making it noticeably milder. Moreover, the maximum temperature in May reaches 16°C (62°F), while April peaks at just 10°C (51°F). Both months see a similar number of precipitation days, with May accumulating 47 mm (1.9 in) compared to April's 31 mm (1.2 in), though the humidity slightly decreases in May to 82% from April's 85%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, visit Churchill weather in April.

May and June exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. May typically experiences a temperature range from a chilly minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average temperature around -1°C (30°F). In contrast, June brings milder weather, with minimum temperatures at -3°C (28°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (72°F), resulting in a more comfortable average of 5°C (42°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with May receiving 47 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days and June slightly less at 41 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days, while humidity remains relatively constant, hovering around 82% in May and 83% in June. For more detailed weather information, check out Churchill weather in June.

In May, temperatures in Churchill range from a chilly minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a pleasant maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). The month sees about 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 82%. In contrast, July experiences much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), leading to an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 64 mm (2.5 in) over 9 days, accompanied by even higher humidity at 85%. For a detailed view of July's climate in this region, visit Churchill weather in July.

In May, temperatures in Churchill range from a minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F). The month sees about 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 82%. In contrast, August experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation increases to 106 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days, and the humidity rises to 89%. For more information on the weather in August, visit Churchill weather in August.

May and September present distinct contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F). The month experiences around 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation across approximately 8 days, accompanied by a high humidity of 82%. In contrast, September offers a wider temperature range, with minimums around -2°C (29°F) and maximums peaking at 21°C (71°F), leading to an average of 7°C (46°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 12 days and a slightly higher humidity of 86%. For more insights on September's climate, you can visit Churchill weather in September.

May and October in Churchill present quite different weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F). The month sees around 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, with humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, October offers cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), and an average of 1°C (33°F). Rainfall increases to 65 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 10 days, alongside a higher humidity level of 91%. For those interested in more details, you can check Churchill weather in October.

May and November present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -14°C (6°F) to an average of -1°C (30°F), peaking at a mild 16°C (62°F), with an average humidity of 82%. Precipitation during this month occurs on about 8 days, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in). In contrast, November experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -32°C (-25°F) and a chilly average of -13°C (10°F), only reaching a maximum of 1°C (35°F). This month sees a higher humidity at 93% and precipitation on 11 days, totaling 37 mm (1.5 in). For more specifics on November weather, visit Churchill weather in November.

May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -14°C (6°F) to a mild 16°C (62°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F). The month experiences 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. Conversely, December is significantly colder, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -38°C (-36°F) and an average of -21°C (-6°F). The maximum in December just reaches 0°C (32°F), and the month sees reduced precipitation of 27 mm (1.0 in) over only 6 days, although the humidity is remarkably high at 99%. For a deeper dive into December weather specifics, check out Churchill weather in December.

Compare Churchill's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Churchill

As May unfolds in Churchill, the weather begins to shift, marking a stark transition from the deep chill of winter. With temperatures starting to rise, it’s a welcome change, although the lingering cold can still be felt, especially at night. Expect a mix of sunny days and light showers, with increased humidity making the air feel cooler than the actual temperature. Compared to the stark temperatures of earlier months, May offers a glimpse of warmth, yet it still carries the unpredictability of spring, often presenting both radiant sunshine and the occasional rain. To learn more about the overall climate patterns in Churchill, visit Churchill Climate.