May Weather in Arcachon, France

Last updated: February 26, 2025

In May, Arcachon, France, welcomes the onset of warmer weather, with maximum temperatures reaching an inviting 27°C (81°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). While the minimum temperatures can dip to a brisk 7°C (45°F), visitors can expect a vibrant coastal atmosphere. However, precipitation plays a notable role this month, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over approximately 13 days, which contributes to the area's lush landscapes. With an average humidity of 82%, the air feels refreshingly moist, making it a delightful yet variable time to explore the beauty of Arcachon.

May Temperature in Arcachon

In May, Arcachon truly begins to warm up, showcasing a delightful transition into spring. With minimum temperatures rising to a comfortable 7°C (45°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), residents and visitors alike can enjoy the blooming surroundings without the chill of earlier months. The highs can reach 27°C (81°F), offering perfect conditions for outdoor activities along the picturesque coastline. This month marks a significant departure from the cooler temperatures of winter, making May an ideal time to relish the beauty of Arcachon as it comes alive with warmth and vibrant scenery.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Arcachon, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec475052566167717067615351
Data source: Temperature data for Arcachon 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 Arcachon

In May, Arcachon experiences a significant increase in precipitation, registering 101 mm (4.0 in) over the month, marking it as one of the wettest periods of the year. With rain falling on 13 days, May's showers contribute to a vibrant, lush landscape that transitions into summer. This spike follows a drier April, which saw only 52 mm (2.0 in) of rain across just 8 days. The trend indicates that as spring unfolds, unexpected rainfall can invigorate the region, priming it for the drier, sunnier months ahead. As the seasons shift, May emerges as a critical month, balancing between the lingering cool of spring and the warming embrace of summer.

May Precipitation Trends in Arcachon

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Arcachon, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec736971521019644445886108151
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Arcachon

As spring transitions into summer, May in Arcachon, France, maintains a consistent humidity level of 82%, mirroring the levels observed in both March and April. This steadiness is part of a broader trend, as Arcachon experiences relatively high humidity during the first half of the year, with January peaking at 85% before gradually decreasing towards the summer months. By June, humidity drops slightly to 80%, and continues to decline into the warmer summer, showcasing a gentle shift towards drier conditions. The pattern indicates that while May remains comfortably humid, the onset of summer brings a welcome relief from the more moisture-laden months of winter and early spring.

May Average Humidity in Arcachon

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Arcachon, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%83%82%82%82%80%76%73%76%82%83%85%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Arcachon

As May arrives in Arcachon, France, the UV Index reaches 8, signaling a transition into the summer months with a very high exposure category. This increase in UV radiation, with a burn time of just 15 minutes, highlights the importance of sun protection as beachgoers revel in the warming weather. Following a steady climb from January's low UV Index of 2 to April's 7, May's levels indicate a peak in sun intensity that will persist through June and July. This trend emphasizes the need to stay vigilant against sunburns as the summer sun grows stronger. For a detailed overview of the UV Index throughout the year, visit Arcachon UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Arcachon for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Arcachon 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2367810987532
Data source: Arcachon 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 Arcachon

May in Arcachon, France, basks in a delightful 400 hours of sunshine, marking a vibrant peak in the gradual climb from the year's start. After a steady increase from 177 hours in January, the sun's embrace grows warmer each month, with April already enjoying 355 hours. By the time May rolls around, residents and visitors alike can revel in the sunshine, which helps to set the stage for the even sunnier days of June and July. As the year progresses, the trend of increasing sunlight continues, promising plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures amid the stunning coastal scenery.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Arcachon: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Arcachon 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec177h240h312h355h400h416h429h402h346h300h246h204h
Data source: Arcachon May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Arcachon During May

In Arcachon, France, the likelihood of sunny weather in May sees a notable dip when compared to the preceding months, with only a 37% chance of sunshine. While March and April showcase a greater promise of clear skies—with chances reaching 55% and 51%, respectively—May's figures suggest a transition into the mild and changeable conditions of early summer. As the year progresses into June, the probability of sunshine begins to climb again, peaking in August at an impressive 58%. This trend highlights that while May may not deliver the brightest days, it serves as a gateway to the sunnier months ahead, making it a perfect time for those seeking a balance of mild weather and fewer crowds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Arcachon

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Arcachon 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 Arcachon experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24%28%55%51%38%46%47%58%44%50%33%37%
Data source: Arcachon May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Arcachon in May

As spring transitions into summer, May shines brightly in Arcachon, France, with an inviting 14 hours of daylight that encourages outdoor adventures and seaside relaxation. This increase from April's 13 hours highlights a steady trend of lengthening days, peaking in June and July with 15 hours. As the year unfolds, daylight begins to gradually diminish, returning to 10 hours by October and down to 8 hours in December. The shift emphasizes a vibrant rhythm of light and leisure, making May a particularly enchanting time to explore the natural beauty and charm of this coastal haven.

Average Daylight Hours in Arcachon for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Arcachon throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 14m10h 26m11h 56m13h 30m14h 49m15h 29m15h 8m13h 57m12h 28m10h 55m9h 34m8h 51m
Data source: Arcachon daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Arcachon

In May, Arcachon experiences a pleasant uptick in wind speed, averaging 4.4 m/s (10 mph), a gentle increase from the calmer months preceding it. This moderate breeze adds a refreshing touch to the burgeoning warmth of late spring, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities along the picturesque coastline. As the year progresses towards summer, wind speeds tend to decrease slightly, with June and July recording their lowest averages at 3.4 m/s (8 mph) and 3.7 m/s (8 mph), respectively. However, May stands out as a transitional month, where the winds are still favorable for sailing and enjoying the outdoors before the summer heat sets in, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of the season.

Average May Wind Speed in Arcachon

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Arcachon, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.34.84.14.14.4 m/s3.43.74.03.33.94.25.2
Data source: Arcachon May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Arcachon Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 7°C (45°F) to a warm 27°C (81°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F), making it a much more pleasant month. Precipitation is relatively high at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, but the humidity is lower at 82%. In stark contrast, January boasts colder temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), averaging just 8°C (47°F). While it has less rainfall at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, the humidity is slightly higher at 85%. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can visit Arcachon weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, a notable difference in temperature and precipitation emerges. May enjoys a warmer climate, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while February experiences cooler temperatures, with averages from -3°C (27°F) to 18°C (65°F). Additionally, May experiences more rainfall, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over about 13 days, compared to February’s 69 mm (2.7 in) across 11 days. Despite the increase in rain during May, the humidity levels remain relatively similar, with May at 82% and February slightly higher at 83%. For more detailed information on February weather, you can check Arcachon weather in February.

In comparison to March, May enjoys significantly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), while March can drop to as low as -2°C (29°F) with a cooler average of 11°C (52°F). Both months experience similar levels of humidity at 82%, but May sees a higher maximum temperature of 27°C (81°F) compared to March's peak of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, although May has more precipitation overall at 101 mm (4.0 in), both months have 13 days of rain, highlighting a relatively consistent but wetter transition into the warmer season. For more details on March weather in Arcachon, visit Arcachon weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures rising from 13°C (56°F) in April to 16°C (61°F) in May. The minimum temperatures also experience an increase, with May's low of 7°C (45°F) compared to April's low of 3°C (38°F). In terms of maximum temperatures, May reaches up to 27°C (81°F), while April peaks at 25°C (77°F). Although both months have the same humidity level of 82%, May sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, compared to April's 52 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days. For more detailed insights on April's weather specifics, you can check Arcachon weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we see a noticeable warming trend. May features a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with a total precipitation of 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, coupled with a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, June experiences higher temperatures, starting with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and peaking at 33°C (92°F). The precipitation slightly decreases to 96 mm (3.8 in) over 12 days, with a humidity of 80%. Overall, while both months see a fair amount of rain, June is generally warmer and drier. For more details, you can refer to Arcachon weather in June.

May weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with an average of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while July enjoys warmer conditions, averaging 21°C (71°F) and peaking at 33°C (92°F). In May, the region experiences significant rainfall, with 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, contributing to higher humidity levels at 82%. Conversely, July sees much less precipitation, with only 44 mm (1.7 in) falling over just 8 days, resulting in a drier and less humid atmosphere at 76%. For more details on July's weather, check out Arcachon weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a cool 7°C (45°F) at night to a pleasant 27°C (81°F) during the day, with an average of 16°C (61°F). However, it is also a wetter month, as it sees about 101 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity at 82%. In contrast, August offers warmer conditions, with nighttime lows of 15°C (59°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 31°C (87°F), averaging 21°C (71°F). Precipitation during this month drops significantly to 44 mm (1.7 in) over just 7 days, and the humidity decreases to 73%. For more details on August weather, visit Arcachon weather in August.

In May, the weather is characterized by a broader temperature range with minimums around 7°C (45°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (81°F), resulting in an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). The month tends to be quite humid, with humidity levels peaking at 82% and 101 mm of precipitation over 13 days.

In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures rising to 11°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (85°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). The rainfall is significantly lower, amounting to 58 mm and occurring over just 9 days, along with slightly reduced humidity at 76%. For more specific insights on the weather during this month, check out Arcachon weather in September.

May and October share a similar average temperature of 16°C (61°F), though May tends to be a bit warmer, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 27°C (81°F) compared to October's 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in May at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, while October experiences a bit less rain, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) across 11 days. Both months feature high humidity, with May at 82% and October at 81%, making them feel quite similar in terms of moisture in the air. For more detailed insights, you can check Arcachon weather in October.

May and November present distinct differences in weather patterns. May typically enjoys warmer temperatures, with averages reaching up to 16°C (61°F) and maximums soaring to 27°C (81°F), making it a comfortable month for outdoor activities. Conversely, November experiences cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels, around 101 mm (4.0 in) in May and slightly higher at 108 mm (4.2 in) in November, with rainfall occurring on approximately 13 days in each month. Humidity levels remain consistent, with May at 82% and November at 83%. For more details, you can explore Arcachon weather in November.

May and December present quite contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range more broadly from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences around 101 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 13 days, alongside a moderate humidity level of 82%. In contrast, December is cooler, with temperatures peaking at just 16°C (61°F) and descending to a minimum of 3°C (37°F), resulting in an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). Additionally, December sees higher precipitation levels of 151 mm (5.9 in) over 18 days and slightly increased humidity at 85%. Overall, while May brings milder and warmer weather, December is characterized by colder temperatures and increased rainfall. For more detailed information, check out Arcachon weather in December.

Compare Arcachon's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Arcachon

May in Arcachon brings a delightful transition into warmer weather, with pleasantly mild temperatures inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities. As the month unfolds, the average temperature rises, contrasting sharply with the cooler months preceding it, while the days gradually become longer and sunnier. However, it's also a month where rain makes its presence felt, with about half of the month experiencing some precipitation, contributing to the region's lush landscape. The higher humidity adds a touch of tropical warmth, making the air feel vibrant. For those interested in understanding more about the broader climate patterns, explore Arcachon Climate.