May Weather in Skibbereen, Ireland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

May in Skibbereen, Ireland, offers a delightful mix of mild temperatures and refreshing rain. With a maximum temperature reaching 22°C (71°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), the weather provides a comfortable atmosphere for outdoor exploration. However, visitors should be prepared for the occasional showers, as precipitation totals 75 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 12 days. The high humidity level of 84% adds to the lush greenery characteristic of this enchanting region. Embrace the charm of Skibbereen this May, where every day presents a chance to appreciate the beauty of Ireland's diverse landscape.

May Temperature in Skibbereen

As spring transitions to summer, Skibbereen experiences a noticeable rise in temperatures during May. With minimums starting at a mild 3°C (37°F), the average climbs to a comfortable 12°C (53°F), reaching peak highs of 22°C (71°F). This month marks a stark contrast to the earlier months, where the chill was more pronounced and daytime highs struggled to break above 17°C (63°F) in April. The warming trend is clear, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the longer, sunnier days and the vibrant scenery, making May an ideal time for outdoor adventures and exploration in this picturesque corner of Ireland.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Skibbereen, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec464646495357616057534847
Data source: Temperature data for Skibbereen 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 Skibbereen

May in Skibbereen, Ireland sees a noteworthy steady rhythm of precipitation, mirroring the preceding months with a total of 75 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days of rainfall. This amount is consistent with the lighter, late spring showers commonly responsible for nurturing the lush greenery in the region. As May transitions to June, precipitation begins to taper off slightly, dropping to 60 mm. Interestingly, the month sits comfortably between the wetter winter months and early summer, maintaining a balanced climate. The rainfall in May doesn't just contribute to the scenic beauty of Skibbereen but also signals the gradual shift from the cold, damp winter into the more temperate, vibrant seasons ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Skibbereen

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Skibbereen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec751319676756064938312599134
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Skibbereen

In May, Skibbereen experiences a consistent humidity level of 84%, reflecting a stable trend from the previous months. This slight dip from the winter highs of 83% to 85% indicates a gentle transition into the summer months. Throughout the first half of the year, humidity levels remain fairly consistent, peaking in the late spring and early summer with June and July both matching the 85% mark. As the year progresses, humidity tends to hover around the mid-80s, creating a characteristic dampness that features prominently in the region's mild maritime climate. This uniformity in humidity not only enriches the local flora but also contributes to the overall charm of Skibbereen, enveloping it in a lush, green landscape.

May Average Humidity in Skibbereen

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Skibbereen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%85%84%84%84%85%85%84%85%86%84%83%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Skibbereen

As spring transitions into summer in Skibbereen, Ireland, the UV Index sees a notable rise, indicating increasing sun exposure risk. In May, the UV Index peaks at 7, categorizing it as high, similar to the conditions in April, but signaling a more intense sun presence compared to earlier months. With a burn time of just 25 minutes, it's essential to stay vigilant about sun protection as outdoor activities become more prevalent. Following May, the UV Index will escalate further in June and July, reaching very high levels. These trends highlight the importance of being sun-smart as warmer days approach. For detailed insights, check the Skibbereen UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Skibbereen for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Skibbereen 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124678875421
Data source: Skibbereen 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 Skibbereen

As spring transitions into summer, May brings a delightful surge of sunshine to Skibbereen, Ireland, boasting a remarkable 395 hours of daylight. This month marks a significant leap from the 322 hours in April, reflecting not only longer days but also a vibrant awakening of nature. Following May, the sunshine remains plentiful in June and July, with 385 and 397 hours, respectively, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes, the hours begin to taper off, with August seeing 357 hours and September dipping to 299 hours. This pattern highlights a clear seasonal trend: Skibbereen experiences its sunniest spell from late spring through early summer, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the warmth of its stunning coastal landscapes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Skibbereen: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Skibbereen 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87h140h200h322h395h385h397h357h299h232h140h100h
Data source: Skibbereen May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Skibbereen During May

In Skibbereen, Ireland, the trend in sunny weather reveals that May offers a moderate likelihood of sunshine, with a 30% chance. This marks a slight decline from the sunshine prevalence in April, which enjoys a more promising 45% likelihood. Following May, the chances dip again in June to 25%, suggesting that while spring is reaching its peak, it may not last long into early summer. Observing the month-by-month fluctuations, it becomes clear that while May does provide a decent opportunity for bright, sunny days, it is somewhat overshadowed by its immediate predecessor, reflecting a seasonal ebb and flow in Skibbereen's weather patterns.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Skibbereen

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Skibbereen 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 Skibbereen experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35%24%23%45%30%25%34%33%21%22%32%20%
Data source: Skibbereen May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Skibbereen in May

As spring unfolds in Skibbereen, May brings a delightful 15 hours of daylight, marking a significant increase from the 13 hours in April. This gradual ascent from the winter months, where daylight lingers for only 8 hours in January and November, showcases the region's transition into vibrant summer days. Following May, June peaks at an impressive 16 hours, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning landscapes. However, as summer wanes, daylight slowly recedes, dipping to 14 hours in August and further down to 12 hours in September. This rhythmic pattern not only underscores the cyclical nature of the seasons in Skibbereen but also invites residents and visitors alike to savor each sun-drenched day as they bask in the growing light.

Average Daylight Hours in Skibbereen for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Skibbereen throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 24m9h 58m11h 55m13h 54m15h 38m16h 32m16h 3m14h 30m12h 34m10h 36m8h 50m7h 53m
Data source: Skibbereen daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Skibbereen

May in Skibbereen brings a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 5.2 m/s (12 mph), maintaining a comfortable flow that mirrors the month’s transition into summer. Following a notably breezy February at 7.5 m/s (17 mph), the wind speeds begin to decline, showcasing softer gusts as the year progresses toward warmer months. While April exhibits the lowest winds of 4.5 m/s (10 mph), May strikes a lovely balance, offering just enough wind to occasionally rustle leaves and invite outdoor exploration. As June approaches with an even milder 4.3 m/s (10 mph), May serves as a charming prelude to Skibbereen's serene and tranquil summer days, where the whispers of the wind harmonize with the lush Irish landscape.

Average May Wind Speed in Skibbereen

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Skibbereen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.37.55.54.55.2 m/s4.34.04.54.55.44.86.5
Data source: Skibbereen May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Skibbereen Compares to Other Months

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

In May, temperatures gradually warm up, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum of 22°C (71°F), making it a pleasant time of year. The month experiences around 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity of 84%. In contrast, January is much cooler, featuring a minimum temperature of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F) with a maximum of 14°C (57°F). This winter month also sees similar precipitation levels at 75 mm (2.9 in) but over just 11 days, with a slightly lower humidity of 83%. For more details, you can check Skibbereen weather in January.

May generally offers a more pleasant atmosphere compared to February, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 12°C (53°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are cooler, starting at 0°C (32°F) and peaking at 13°C (56°F), with an average of only 8°C (46°F). While May sees approximately 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over about 12 days, February is notably wetter with 131 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation spread across 18 days. Humidity levels remain similar in both months, hovering around 84% in May and 85% in February. For more detailed information on February weather, you can visit Skibbereen weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, May generally offers milder temperatures, with averages around 12°C (53°F) and highs reaching up to 22°C (71°F), while March has cooler conditions, with average temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and maximums of only 15°C (60°F). Additionally, May experiences less precipitation than March, receiving 75 mm (3.0 in) over an average of 12 days, compared to March's 96 mm (3.8 in) across 17 days of rain. Both months have the same higher humidity level of 84%, but the warmer conditions in May make it feel more pleasant overall. For more detailed information, refer to Skibbereen weather in March.

In comparing the weather patterns of April and May, we see a notable increase in temperatures as May shows a minimum of 3°C (37°F) compared to April's 0°C (33°F). The average temperature rises from 9°C (49°F) in April to 12°C (53°F) in May, with maximum temperatures peaking at 22°C (71°F) in May, compared to 17°C (63°F) in April. Precipitation levels remain similar, with May experiencing 75 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days, slightly more than April's 76 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are consistent at 84% for both months. For a detailed look at April's weather, you can check Skibbereen weather in April.

In comparing the weather of May and June, we observe a noticeable warming trend as temperatures rise throughout the month. May's temperatures range from a cool minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). In contrast, June sees a milder starting point, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging at 14°C (58°F). While both months experience similar precipitation patterns, with 12 days of rain, June is slightly drier with 60 mm (2.4 in) compared to May's 75 mm (3.0 in). Humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 84% in May and 85% in June. For a more detailed outlook, you can check Skibbereen weather in June.

Comparing the weather in May and July reveals some notable differences. May tends to have cooler temperatures, with an average of 12°C (53°F) compared to July's average of 16°C (61°F). While May sees a maximum temperature of 22°C (71°F), July can reach a warmer high of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with May receiving 75 mm (3.0 in) and July slightly less at 64 mm (2.5 in), although both months experience rainfall on approximately 12 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with July at 85% and May slightly lower at 84%. For more specific insights into July’s atmospheric conditions, you can check Skibbereen weather in July.

May and August display contrasting weather patterns, although their maximum temperatures are quite similar, hovering around 22°C (72°F). In May, the average temperature is milder at 12°C (53°F), with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), while August offers slightly warmer conditions, with an average of 15°C (60°F) and a minimum of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation tends to increase in August with 93 mm (3.7 in) over 15 days compared to May's 75 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days, suggesting that late summer might be a bit wetter. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level of 84%, contributing to a pretty consistent feeling of dampness throughout the season. For more detailed insights, you can check Skibbereen weather in August.

In comparing the weather of May and September, we notice that both months experience mild temperatures, but September tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 14°C (58°F) compared to May's 12°C (53°F). May often sees cooler temperatures in the mornings, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), while September starts off a bit warmer at 5°C (41°F). Both months experience a fair amount of precipitation, with May totaling 75 mm across 12 rainy days and September slightly higher at 83 mm over 13 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, hovering around 84% in May and increasing marginally to 85% in September. For specific details on September weather in Skibbereen, visit Skibbereen weather in September.

May and October exhibit some similarities in temperature, with average highs of 22°C (71°F) in May and 18°C (65°F) in October, while both months average 12°C (53°F). However, May typically experiences more pleasant weather with a minimum temperature of 3°C (37°F) compared to October's cooler minimum of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation tends to be higher in October, with 125 mm (4.9 in) over 16 days compared to May's 75 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days, contributing to a slightly wetter atmosphere. Humidity levels are also marginally higher in October at 86%, compared to 84% in May. For more details on October weather patterns, you can check Skibbereen weather in October.

In May, the weather is generally milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), averaging around 12°C (53°F). This month experiences moderate rainfall, with about 75 mm (3.0 in) falling over approximately 12 days. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging just 9°C (49°F). The precipitation increases to 99 mm (3.9 in) spread across about 15 days, maintaining a consistent humidity level of 84%. For more details on November weather conditions, you can visit Skibbereen weather in November.

May presents a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (71°F), averaging around 12°C (53°F). While it's relatively wet with 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 12 days, humidity sits at a higher level, around 84%. In contrast, December is chillier, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and peaking at 14°C (57°F), averaging 8°C (47°F). This month experiences increased rainfall, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) across 19 days, and slightly lower humidity at 83%. For more details on the December weather in Skibbereen, you can visit Skibbereen weather in December.

Compare Skibbereen's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Skibbereen

May in Skibbereen ushers in a pleasant transition from spring to early summer, characterized by warmer days and a noticeable uptick in temperatures compared to the cooler winter months. With an average temperature around 12°C, the month showcases more enticing conditions for outdoor activities, despite the possibility of rain with about 12 days of precipitation. Alongside increased humidity levels at 84%, this is a time when the landscape begins to flourish, offering a refreshing green backdrop. For those interested in understanding how May’s climate fits into the broader patterns of the year, check out Skibbereen Climate for more insights.