May Weather in Essen, Germany

Last updated: February 26, 2025

May in Essen, Germany offers a delightful blend of vibrant spring weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (91°F), and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). However, the month can also bring a touch of unpredictability, as temperatures can dip to a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F). With 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over the course of 13 days, residents and visitors alike should be prepared for occasional showers amidst the blossoming landscape. The humidity level at 73% adds a refreshing quality to the air, making May an ideal time to explore the lush surroundings of this vibrant city.

May Temperature in Essen

In Essen, Germany, May heralds the arrival of warmth with daytime temperatures reaching up to 32°C (91°F), making it one of the most pleasant months of the year. As the city shakes off the lingering chill of winter, nighttime temperatures also begin to rise, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F), reflecting a significant shift from the frosty conditions of earlier months. The average temperature climbs to a comfortable 13°C (56°F), creating a delightful atmosphere for outdoor activities and social gatherings. This transition into spring is marked by soaring highs and blooming landscapes, as Essen fully embraces the vibrancy that May brings.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Essen, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec383943495665656659534440
Data source: Temperature data for Essen generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Essen

May in Essen, Germany typically ushers in a moderate precipitation level, with an average of 58 mm (2.3 in) over roughly 13 days of rain. This pattern reflects a slight recovery from April's lower total of 41 mm (1.6 in), suggesting a trend of increasing rainfall as spring transitions to summer. While May's rainfall is considerable, it remains less than the wetter months of July and June, indicating a gradual buildup towards the peak precipitation typically seen in mid-summer. The consistent number of wet days hints at a familiar rhythm in the city's climate, where the flurry of showers is interspersed with blossoming greenery, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of late spring.

May Precipitation Trends in Essen

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Essen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec656770415870817759865283
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Essen

In May, Essen, Germany experiences a noticeable shift in humidity, dropping to 73%, a significant decline from the higher levels seen in the earlier months. This reduction marks a transition into the warmer season, as humidity levels steadily decrease from 82% in April and continue to decline into the summer. The trend reflects a general seasonal pattern where the humid conditions of winter yield to more comfortable levels in late spring. This transformation not only enhances outdoor enjoyment but also sets the stage for the approaching summer months, where humidity stabilizes around 66-67% in June and July.

May Average Humidity in Essen

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Essen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%82%73%66%66%67%81%86%90%90%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Essen

As spring transitions into summer, May in Essen, Germany, marks a noticeable shift in UV exposure, with the UV Index climbing to 7, placing it firmly in the high exposure category and reducing safe sunburn time to just 25 minutes. This increase from April's moderate index of 5 signals the importance of sun protection, especially for outdoor activities. As temperatures rise and people spend more time outdoors, it's crucial to be mindful of this elevated UV risk. Comparatively, the preceding months of January to April featured lower indices, gradually building to this critical point. As you enjoy the sunnier days, don't forget to stay informed and take precautions for your skin. For more details, explore the Essen UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Essen for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Essen 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578775321
Data source: Essen 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 Essen

As May unfolds in Essen, Germany, the city basks in an impressive 396 hours of sunshine, marking the peak of radiant spring days. This vibrant month stands out in contrast to the earlier winter months, where January's mere 99 hours felt like a distant memory. The surge in daylight hours begins in March, with 260 hours that set the stage for April's ascent to 346 hours. By the time May arrives, the sun is at its zenith, contributing significantly to the overall increase in brightness as summer approaches. Following May, June remains only slightly brighter with 397 hours, but the gradual decline in sunshine begins in July, hinting at the slow transition toward fall. Overall, this trend of increasing sunlight not only enhances the beauty of Essen but also uplifts its spirits, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoor charm that comes alive in the sun-kissed days of late spring.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Essen: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Essen 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec99h189h260h346h396h397h395h382h314h238h175h119h
Data source: Essen May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Essen During May

In Essen, Germany, the month of May evokes a sense of anticipation for sunnier days, maintaining a 28% chance of sunshine, which is a slight decline from the 38% in April. This trend reflects a broader pattern as the likelihood of sun increases steadily from January through April, peaking in the early spring before the weather stabilizes. As the year progresses into the warmer months, June, July, and August present marginal increases, hovering around the 30% mark. This suggests a transitional phase in May, where warmer temperatures promise brighter days, yet the lingering chance of overcast skies reminds us of spring's unpredictability. Overall, while May offers reasonable hope for sunny weather, it's clear that the sun's presence in Essen remains a delightful surprise rather than a certainty.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Essen

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Essen 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 Essen experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14%25%35%38%28%29%27%31%32%24%18%16%
Data source: Essen May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Essen in May

In Essen, Germany, the length of daylight gradually increases as spring unfolds, with May enjoying a delightful 15 hours of sunlight. This marks a significant leap from April's 13 hours, reflecting the arrival of warmer weather and longer days. As summer approaches, June and July peak at an impressive 16 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities and evening adventures. However, the trend shifts as summer wanes; daylight begins to recede in August, dropping to 14 hours, followed by a more pronounced decline through fall and winter. The year closes with the shortest days in December, where only 7 hours of daylight are enjoyed. This rhythmic variation beautifully highlights the changing seasons in Essen, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the vibrant energy of longer days in spring and summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Essen for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Essen throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 14m9h 53m11h 54m13h 58m15h 48m16h 45m16h 14m14h 36m12h 36m10h 33m8h 41m7h 42m
Data source: Essen daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Essen

In Essen, Germany, the month of May continues to showcase a stable wind profile, with an average speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph), mirroring trends observed earlier in the year. Notably, this consistency in wind speed maintains a refreshing backdrop for the onset of summer, setting it apart from the lighter breezes typical in the latter months. Following a slight dip in winds during April to 3.4 m/s, May marks a return to the breezier conditions seen in January, March, and December. As the seasons transition, wind speeds gradually decrease in the summer months, highlighting the shift towards calmer, warmer days. This pattern hints at a rhythm in Essen's climate where the winds gracefully ebb and flow throughout the year, enhancing the city's unique charm.

Average May Wind Speed in Essen

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Essen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.73.63.73.43.7 m/s2.52.93.32.84.13.43.7
Data source: Essen May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Essen Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 32°C (91°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation of 58 mm (2.3 in) over about 13 days, with humidity at a comfortable 73%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a low of -8°C (17°F) to a high of 14°C (58°F), averaging merely 3°C (38°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, paired with higher humidity at 91%. For more specific details, you can check Essen weather in January.

In comparing the weather of May and February, we observe significant differences in temperature and humidity. May boasts a much milder climate, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly low of -1°C (31°F) to a warm high of 32°C (91°F). In contrast, February experiences much colder conditions, with average temperatures varying from a frigid low of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of only 18°C (66°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat comparable, with May receiving 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days and February slightly higher at 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days. Humidity is also notably different; February is more humid at 89%, while May sees a lower average of 73%. For more detailed information on February weather in Essen, you can visit Essen weather in February.

May and March exhibit significant differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 32°C (91°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), resulting in warmer conditions compared to March’s cooler temperatures, which range from -11°C (13°F) to 22°C (71°F) with an average of only 6°C (43°F). Additionally, May experiences slightly less precipitation at 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days, whereas March has more rain at 70 mm (2.7 in) over the same number of days. Humidity is also lower in May at 73%, compared to March's higher humidity level of 87%. For more insights on the weather during this time, you can check Essen weather in March.

May generally brings warmer temperatures compared to April, with averages rising from 9°C (49°F) in April to 13°C (56°F) in May. While both months experience chilly nights, May's minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) is slightly more moderate than April’s -3°C (26°F). Moreover, May can reach a maximum of 32°C (91°F), surpassing April’s maximum of 28°C (83°F). However, May also sees a bit more precipitation, with 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days, compared to 41 mm (1.6 in) across 9 days in April. Notably, humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 73% compared to April's 82%. For more detailed information, you can check out this link: Essen weather in April.

May and June present notable differences in weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures vary from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 32°C (91°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences around 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation across 13 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 73%.

In contrast, June brings warmer temperatures, starting at a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and reaching up to 35°C (95°F), with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). The precipitation levels slightly increase to 70 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, but the humidity decreases to 66%. This shift is indicative of the onset of summer, making June a generally warmer and drier month compared to May. For more detailed insights, you can check out Essen weather in June.

May and July present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures can drop as low as -1°C (31°F) but can soar to a maximum of 32°C (91°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month experiences about 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 73%. In contrast, July features milder minimum temperatures starting at 7°C (44°F) and reaching a higher average of 18°C (66°F), with peaks of up to 39°C (102°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 81 mm (3.2 in), also spread over 13 days but with lower humidity at 66%. For a more in-depth look at July's weather, you can check Essen weather in July.

May and August present quite different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 32°C (91°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences around 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days and maintains a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, August has a milder minimum temperature of 8°C (46°F) and a higher average of 19°C (66°F), with soaring maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation in August increases slightly to 77 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days, while humidity decreases to 67%. For more specifics on August weather, check out Essen weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather characteristics, showcasing a transition from spring warmth to early autumn coolness. In May, temperatures can fluctuate significantly, with minimums dipping down to -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching as high as 32°C (91°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation across 13 days, with humidity levels at 73%.

Conversely, September presents a more stable temperature range, with minimums of 3°C (38°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F), yielding an average of 15°C (59°F). Encouragingly, it shares a similar precipitation level of 59 mm (2.3 in), but over just 11 days, leading to a slightly higher humidity of 81%. This gradual shift in temperature and humidity signifies the onset of autumn. For a deeper dive into September's climate, check out Essen weather in September.

In comparing the weather of May and October, we observe notable differences and some similarities. May typically showcases a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to -1°C (31°F) and maximums soaring up to 32°C (91°F), while October presents a cooler spectrum, with an average temperature of 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is more frequent in October, averaging 86 mm (3.4 in) across 14 days compared to May's 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days. Additionally, October experiences higher humidity, averaging 86%, compared to May’s 73%. For those wanting more details on October's climate, take a look at Essen weather in October.

May typically offers a wider temperature range compared to November, with minimums reaching -1°C (31°F) and maximums soaring up to 32°C (91°F), resulting in a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F). In contrast, November temperatures are generally cooler, with minimums around -2°C (28°F) and maximums peaking at 19°C (67°F), leading to an average of only 7°C (45°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, but November has slightly less at 52 mm (2.0 in) over 12 days, whereas May sees 58 mm (2.3 in) across 13 days. Additionally, November has considerably higher humidity at 90%, compared to May's 73%. For more details, check out Essen weather in November.

May and December showcase distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures can swing from a chilly low of -1°C (31°F) to a warm high of 32°C (91°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). However, the month sees a fair amount of rain, with precipitation measuring 58 mm (2.3 in) over about 13 days and an average humidity of 73%.

In contrast, December experiences colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -8°C (17°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of just 5°C (41°F). This month tends to be wetter, with 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread over roughly 15 days, and higher humidity at 90%. For a detailed look at December weather, visit Essen weather in December.

Compare Essen's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Essen

As May unfolds in Essen, the weather transitions from the chill of winter, bringing a refreshing warmth and vibrant greenery. Temperatures can reach a peak of 32°C (91°F), offering a stark contrast to the cooler months that precede it. While the average temperature settles around a comfortable 13°C (56°F), evenings can still dip to -1°C (31°F), reminding us of spring's lingering unpredictability. With 58 mm of precipitation over approximately 13 days, May tends to be slightly wetter, yet the humidity level of 73% adds a refreshing touch to the air. This blend of warmth and occasional rain creates a dynamic atmosphere perfect for exploring the blossoming landscapes. For more detailed insights, check out Essen Climate.