May Weather in Nantes, France

Last updated: February 26, 2025

Nantes, France, experiences a captivating May, characterized by its pleasant temperatures and refreshing spring atmosphere. With a maximum reaching 31°C (88°F), the month can surprise visitors with bursts of warmth, while the average stays comfortably at 15°C (59°F). However, cooler days can still creep in, with minimums dipping to 1°C (34°F). Despite a total precipitation amount of 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, the lush greenery and vibrant blooms make this month a visual delight. Coupled with a humidity level of 81%, May in Nantes presents a dynamic blend of warmth and refreshment, inviting exploration and enjoyment of the city's natural beauty.

May Temperature in Nantes

In May, Nantes, France, experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures reaching a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an inviting average of 15°C (59°F). This month marks a significant increase from the chilly conditions of earlier months, culminating in a peak temperature of 31°C (88°F), perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s vibrant culture. As spring unfolds, the mild temperatures foster a pleasant environment that encourages locals and visitors alike to bask in the blooming landscapes and lively alfresco dining. This trend of rising temperatures not only enhances the outdoor experience but also signals the onset of summer, making May a picturesque time to enjoy all that Nantes has to offer.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Nantes, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434548535965686763564846
Data source: Temperature data for Nantes 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 Nantes

In May, Nantes experiences a moderate precipitation total of 64 mm (2.5 in), spread across about 11 days. This marks a decline from the rainfall seen in March but remains consistent with the April totals, reflecting spring's unpredictable yet refreshing nature. As the city blooms into the warmer months, the moisture levels in May play a crucial role in supporting vibrant vegetation while keeping the air pleasantly cool. With precipitation levels increasing as summer approaches, May serves as a bridge, maintaining a balance that enhances Nantes’ lush landscape without overwhelming the region with rain.

May Precipitation Trends in Nantes

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Nantes, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5166715164843642458379107
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Nantes

In May, Nantes, France experiences a notable shift in humidity as the spring unfolds, with levels dipping to 81%. This marks a gradual decline from the wetter conditions of the earlier months, such as January's 88% and February's 87%. As spring transitions towards summer, the humidity continues to decrease, setting the stage for the warmer, drier days of June, which sees levels drop to 75%. This trend reflects a typical seasonal pattern where May offers a breath of fresh air, creating a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities before the heat of summer takes hold. Overall, the month serves as a transitional period, embodying a gentle shift towards a more temperate climate.

May Average Humidity in Nantes

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Nantes, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%87%84%83%81%75%65%67%75%85%88%90%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Nantes

As May rolls into Nantes, the UV Index soars to 8, marking a significant leap into the very high exposure category. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, this month stands out as a time to be vigilant about sun protection. Following the gradual increase in UV levels from the beginning of the year, where January started with a low index of 2, the sun’s intensity spikes in May—setting the stage for the summer months ahead, where similar levels persist through June and July. It's essential to remain aware of these rising trends, ensuring proper precaution measures are taken to enjoy the sunny weather safely. For more details on the UV Index throughout the year, check Nantes UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Nantes for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Nantes 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689986522
Data source: Nantes 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 Nantes

In Nantes, France, May heralds a vibrant transformation in the city’s sunshine hours, showcasing a delightful peak with 394 hours of sun. This increase is part of a broader trend as the year progresses, with sunlight steadily rising from a modest 139 hours in January to an impressive 418 hours by July. The gradual ascent begins in the early months, with a notable jump from 350 hours in April to May, setting the stage for the dazzling summer ahead. As the warm days unfold, residents and visitors alike embrace the revitalizing energy of the sun, making Nantes a lively hub of outdoor activities and celebrations during this glorious month. The sun's presence gradually diminishes with the approach of autumn, yet May remains a cherished highlight in the city’s annual climatic rhythm.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Nantes: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Nantes 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec139h208h291h350h394h398h418h395h331h274h227h193h
Data source: Nantes May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Nantes During May

In Nantes, France, the likelihood of sunny weather shows an intriguing trend as spring transitions into summer. In May, the chance of sunshine drops to 35%, a noticeable decline compared to the 58% seen in April. This dip follows the upward trajectory from January's chilly 19% to March's almost balancing 47%. As the city enjoys the warmer months ahead, June sees a slight increase to 40%, followed by a gradual rise throughout the summer. Despite May presenting a modest chance for sun, it embraces the fluctuating climate that characterizes Nantes, hinting at the promise of sunnier days just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Nantes

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Nantes 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 Nantes experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec19%29%47%58%35%40%42%44%46%46%40%30%
Data source: Nantes May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Nantes in May

In Nantes, France, the transition from winter to summer unfolds dramatically in daylight hours. Starting the year with a mere 8 hours of daylight in January, residents eagerly welcome the gradual increase, reaching 10 hours by February. As spring sets in, March brings 11 hours, followed by a significant leap to 13 hours in April, hinting at the vibrant days ahead. May marks a peak in springtime brightness with an impressive 15 hours of daylight, a duration that continues through June and July, the sunniest months of the year. The trend shifts slightly in August as daylight begins to wane, offering 14 hours before steadily decreasing to 12 hours in September. This gentle decline continues into the cooler months, landing back at 10 hours in October, before retreating to 9 and then 8 hours in November and December, respectively. Each month beautifully illustrates the rhythmic ebb and flow of light, shaping the experience of life in this picturesque city.

Average Daylight Hours in Nantes for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Nantes throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 57m10h 17m11h 56m13h 38m15h 5m15h 50m15h 26m14h 8m12h 30m10h 49m9h 19m8h 32m
Data source: Nantes daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Nantes

In May, Nantes enjoys a refreshing average wind speed of 4.6 m/s (10 mph), marking a notable uptick from the earlier spring months. This increase reflects the transition to warmer weather as the spring blossoms, with April's calming breezes at 4.0 m/s giving way to a more invigorating wind. Notably, May’s winds are the second-highest for the year, only matched by the gusts of January and December. As summer approaches, the winds begin to calm significantly, with June experiencing a drop to 2.8 m/s (6 mph), highlighting a trend where spring windiness gives way to more tranquil summer days in this picturesque French city.

Average May Wind Speed in Nantes

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Nantes, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.14.73.94.04.6 m/s2.83.83.73.33.73.44.6
Data source: Nantes May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Nantes Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a brisk minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F), making it a much milder month. This period also sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, January is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), and an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is slightly less at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days but comes with a higher humidity of 88%. For a more detailed look at January's weather, check out Nantes weather in January.

May typically brings warmer temperatures to the region, with averages around 15°C (59°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F). In contrast, February is much cooler, with average temperatures around 7°C (46°F) and maximums of 22°C (71°F). While both months experience similar levels of precipitation—64 mm (2.5 in) in May compared to 66 mm (2.6 in) in February—May has slightly fewer rainy days, averaging 11 days versus February's 13 days. Interestingly, February also has a higher humidity level, reaching 87%, compared to May's 81%. For further details on February weather, check Nantes weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, it's evident that May offers warmer temperatures, with averages around 15°C (59°F) and highs reaching 31°C (88°F), in contrast to March's cooler average of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with May receiving 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days and March slightly wetter at 71 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days. Additionally, May's humidity sits at 81%, a bit lower than March's 84%. For a detailed overview of March conditions, check out Nantes weather in March.

May generally experiences warmer temperatures compared to April, with an average of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), while April's average temperature is a cooler 12°C (53°F) and peaks at 27°C (80°F). Precipitation levels in May are slightly higher, with 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, compared to 51 mm (2.0 in) across 8 days in April. Humidity remains relatively similar, with May at 81% and April slightly higher at 83%. For more detailed information, check out Nantes weather in April.

May and June exhibit a noticeable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F), while June features slightly warmer conditions with temperatures ranging from 6°C (44°F) to a peak of 37°C (98°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). Both months experience around 11 days of precipitation, but June sees a higher total rainfall of 84 mm (3.3 in) compared to May's 64 mm (2.5 in). Additionally, humidity decreases from 81% in May to 75% in June, creating a more comfortable atmosphere. For more detailed information, check out Nantes weather in June.

May and July present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 1°C (34°F) at night to a warm average of 15°C (59°F), with maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F). The month sees substantial precipitation, with 64 mm (2.5 in) spread over 11 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 81%. In comparison, July offers milder nights with a minimum temperature of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), soaring to highs of 38°C (100°F). Rainfall decreases significantly to 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 7 days, and humidity levels drop to a more comfortable 65%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Nantes weather in July.

May and August present distinct contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). The month is relatively wet, with 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days and high humidity at 81%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and a scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F). Precipitation decreases to 42 mm (1.7 in) over just 7 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 67%. For a detailed look at August weather, visit Nantes weather in August.

In May, the weather features a minimum temperature of 1°C (34°F) and averages around 15°C (59°F), with maximum temperatures reaching 31°C (88°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, averaging 64 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 11 days, and a high humidity level of 81%.

In contrast, September presents a milder climate with a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while maximum temperatures can soar to 34°C (93°F). This month is drier, with only 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread across about 8 days, and slightly lower humidity at 75%. You can find more detailed information about the weather patterns during this time at Nantes weather in September.

May and October both feature mild temperatures, but October tends to be slightly cooler overall. In May, temperatures can soar up to 31°C (88°F), offering some warm, sunny days, while October’s high rarely exceeds 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is more abundant in October, with an average of 83 mm (3.3 in) compared to May's 64 mm (2.5 in), and both months experience rain on about 11 days. Humidity remains fairly high in both months, with October being marginally more humid at 85% compared to May's 81%. For a detailed look at weather specifics, check out Nantes weather in October.

May and November present quite distinct weather patterns. May enjoys a wider temperature range with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F), while November's temperatures are cooler, ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). Although both months experience 11 days of precipitation, November has slightly higher total rainfall at 79 mm (3.1 in) compared to May's 64 mm (2.5 in). Additionally, humidity levels are higher in November at 88%, compared to 81% in May, making the latter month feel more comfortable despite occasional rainfall. For more information, check out Nantes weather in November.

May and December present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a warm 31°C (88°F) during the day, with an average of 15°C (59°F). The month typically sees 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days and maintains a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, December brings colder weather, with temperatures dipping as low as -3°C (27°F) and peaking at 17°C (62°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 107 mm (4.2 in) across 15 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 90%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Nantes weather in December.

Compare Nantes's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Nantes

As May unfolds in Nantes, the weather begins to transition from the cool embrace of spring to the warmth of early summer, offering a refreshing contrast to the chillier months preceding it. With temperatures reaching up to a pleasant 31°C (88°F) during the day, many locals and visitors delight in the increased sunshine. However, the month does see an average of 11 rainy days, resulting in a total precipitation of 64 mm (2.5 in), contributing to a relatively high humidity of 81%. This mix of warmth and moisture fosters vibrant blooms across the city, making May a lovely time to explore. For those interested in an in-depth look at Nantes' weather patterns, be sure to check out Nantes Climate.