Last updated: March 17, 2025
May in Donegal, Ireland presents a unique blend of climate characteristics, showcasing the beauty of spring with temperatures peaking at a maximum of 25°C (77°F) while maintaining a charming average of 11°C (52°F). Nature's refreshing touch can be felt, as nights can dip down to a brisk minimum of -1°C (30°F). This month typically sees about 85 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall spread across 14 days, contributing to the region’s lush greenery. With humidity levels hovering around 83%, Donegal's landscape thrives, offering visitors a captivating experience amid the varied weather patterns.
In May, Donegal, Ireland, experiences a significant warming trend as it transitions into summer, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -1°C (30°F) at night to an inviting 25°C (77°F) during the day. This month marks a delightful increase in the average temperature to 11°C (52°F), compared to the cooler preceding months. As the landscape begins to bloom, May's warmth not only encourages outdoor activities but also sets the stage for longer, sunnier days ahead. This gradual rise in temperature, peaking at the highest level of the year so far, heralds the arrival of vibrant greenery and the charm of the Irish countryside in full bloom.
In May, Donegal experiences a balanced blend of rainfall and sunshine, with an average precipitation of 85 mm (3.4 in) spread over 14 days. This month marks a notable transition from the wetter spring months, as April recorded 65 mm. Despite a slight decline, May's rainfall maintains the lush, green landscapes that the region is famous for, while the frequency of rainy days remains consistent. Looking ahead, the precipitation begins to rise again in June, hinting at the upcoming summer showers, yet May offers a refreshing respite, showcasing Donegal's enchanting charm just before the peak of summer.
In May, Donegal experiences a slight dip in humidity, averaging around 83%, which is consistent with the trend of relatively stable humidity levels throughout the spring months. This slight decrease follows April's humidity of 84%, suggesting a gradual transition into the summer season. As the year progresses, humidity levels tend to rise, peaking in the late summer with 86% in July and August. Although May marks one of the drier months, the overall humidity remains high compared to many other regions, reflecting Donegal's lush, green landscape and maritime climate. Thus, while May offers a brief respite from the higher humidity that characterizes the late summer, it still retains a significant level of moisture in the air.
As spring unfolds in Donegal, the UV Index makes a notable leap in May, reaching a high level of 7. This increase signifies a shift from moderate exposure in April, where the burn time was approximately 30 minutes, to a more concerning 25 minutes in May. This growing intensity emphasizes the importance of sun protection as outdoor activities pick up. As summer approaches, the UV Index will further escalate, peaking at 8 in June and July, indicating a very high exposure risk and a significantly reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. So, while May offers longer days and warmer weather, it also heralds the need for increased vigilance. For a detailed look at UV Index trends throughout the year, check out Donegal UV Index.
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In Donegal, Ireland, May heralds the onset of brighter days, boasting an impressive 385 hours of sunshine. This marks a significant leap from the 297 hours in April, as the region shakes off the chill of winter, transitioning into a lively spring. Following this optimistic glow, June continues to shine brightly with 360 hours, while July and August maintain the warmth with 367 and 323 hours respectively. As the summer months wane, the sunshine hours gradually taper off, showing a clear trend of diminishing brightness into autumn. September offers a still pleasant 270 hours, but by November, the daylight dwindles to just 109 hours, painting a vivid picture of Donegal’s seasonal shifts. The remarkable rise in May is not just a beacon of summer but a reminder of nature's rhythmic cycles, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the charm of one of Ireland's most scenic landscapes.
In Donegal, Ireland, May brings a noteworthy uptick in sunshine, with a 29% chance of sunny weather—a refreshing contrast to the chillier months preceding it. While April peaks at 35%, May offers a more moderate yet promising outlook compared to the summer months that follow, like June and July where the likelihood drops to 16% and 20%, respectively. This trend highlights May as a sweet spot for those seeking a balance of milder conditions and sunny spells, making it a favorable time for outdoor activities before the summer heat sets in.
In Donegal, Ireland, the daylight duration exhibits a captivating seasonal rhythm that peaks in late spring and summer. January greets the year with a modest 7 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 9 hours in February and 11 hours by March, as winter releases its grip. With the arrival of April, days stretch to a welcoming 14 hours, and by May, the sun shines for an impressive 16 hours, heralding the blissful days of early summer. This trend continues into June, when daylight reaches its zenith at 17 hours. However, as summer fades, the days gently shorten, transitioning to 16 hours in July and 14 hours in August, before stepping down to 12 hours in September. The descent resumes through the autumn months, culminating in December, where daylight shrinks back to 7 hours. This ebb and flow of light beautifully mirrors the changing seasons, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the vibrant outdoor activities that each phase offers.
In May, Donegal experiences a gentle embrace of the wind, with an average speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph). This marks a slight revival from April's softer breezes of 3.4 m/s, contributing to a pleasant spring atmosphere. As the month progresses, the winds gradually strengthen leading into summer, with June seeing a modest increase to 3.9 m/s. Interestingly, the transition from the blustery winter months to the more serene summer days reveals a pattern: while January typically ushers in the year with gusts at 3.8 m/s, many later months trend downward, peaking in November at 4.9 m/s. Overall, May sits comfortably in the middle of this ebb and flow, offering a refreshing yet mild wind perfect for enjoying Donegal's stunning landscapes.
The weather in Donegal 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 Donegal and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences about 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, coupled with high humidity at 83%. In contrast, January tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (24°F) to 13°C (56°F) and an average of just 5°C (42°F). It sees slightly higher precipitation at 95 mm (3.7 in) across about 16 days, with humidity levels close to 84%. For more detailed information on January weather, visit Donegal weather in January.
May and February present contrasting weather patterns, with May being significantly warmer and more variable. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly 1°C (30°F) at night to a comfortable 25°C (77°F) during the day, yielding an average of 11°C (52°F). This month sees 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, accompanied by high humidity of 83%. In contrast, February is colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), resulting in a lower average of 5°C (42°F). February also experiences more precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) across 17 days, and a slightly higher humidity at 84%. For a closer look at what February weather brings, you can visit Donegal weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, May generally offers milder temperatures, with an average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum reaching up to 25°C (77°F), while March has cooler conditions, averaging at 6°C (43°F) with a maximum of 17°C (62°F). While both months experience high humidity levels, at 83%, March tends to have more precipitation, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days, compared to May’s 85 mm (3.4 in) across 14 days. For those interested in April's climate specifics, you can find detailed information at Donegal weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, it's evident that May generally presents warmer conditions. The average temperature in May is 11°C (52°F), rising to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), whereas April has a lower average of 8°C (47°F) with a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Additionally, while both months experience similar precipitation levels over 14 days, May's total rainfall is higher at 85 mm (3.4 in) compared to April's 65 mm (2.6 in). Humidity levels remain comparable, with May at 83% and April slightly higher at 84%. For more detailed insights on April weather, visit Donegal weather in April.
May and June exhibit a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a warm 25°C (77°F). Precipitation in May totals 85 mm (3.4 in) over 14 days, with humidity remaining consistently high at 83%. In contrast, June brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), reaching up to a maximum of 27°C (82°F). June also sees increased rainfall, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) across 17 days, while maintaining the same humidity level of 83%. For more detailed insights on weather conditions, check out Donegal weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average of 11°C (52°F) and peak at 25°C (77°F), while July experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of 6°C (44°F), an average of 15°C (58°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is more frequent in July, totaling 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days compared to May's 85 mm (3.4 in) over 14 days. Both months have high humidity levels, with July slightly higher at 86% compared to May's 83%. For a detailed look at July's conditions, check out Donegal weather in July.
May and August present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month typically sees around 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 14 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 83%.
In contrast, August features slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 5°C (41°F) and reaching a maximum of 23°C (73°F), resulting in an average of 14°C (58°F). However, it also experiences increased precipitation of 164 mm (6.5 in) spread over 22 days, and a marginally higher humidity of 86%. For more details on the specific weather trends in August, you can explore Donegal weather in August.
In May, temperatures in Donegal range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences about 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 83%. In contrast, September sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 12°C (55°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). However, it faces increased precipitation, averaging 112 mm (4.4 in) across 18 days, and a slightly higher humidity of 87%. For more detailed insights on September weather in Donegal, check out Donegal weather in September.
May and October present a noticeable contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month sees about 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over roughly 14 days, and humidity levels hover around 83%.
In comparison, October brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). This month experiences increased rainfall, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 20 days, and slightly higher humidity at 87%. For more details, check out Donegal weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). This month typically experiences 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over about 14 days, along with a humidity level of 83%. In stark contrast, November sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of just 15°C (58°F), averaging at 7°C (45°F). The month is marked by increased rainfall, accumulating 116 mm (4.6 in) across approximately 20 days, alongside a slightly higher humidity at 88%. For a more detailed look at November weather, check out Donegal weather in November.
May and December offer contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant 25°C (77°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F), allowing for comfortable outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate at 85 mm (3.4 in) over 14 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 83%. In contrast, December sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), averaging just 6°C (43°F). The month is wetter, receiving 131 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation over 21 days, alongside slightly higher humidity at 84%. For more details about December weather in Donegal, you can visit Donegal weather in December.
May in Donegal brings a notable shift from the cooler months, showcasing a delightful mix of mild temperatures and increased chances of sunshine. The gentle rise in average temperatures offers a refreshing escape, but don't be surprised by the occasional chill, as some days can still dip close to freezing. With precipitation spread across about half the month, locals and visitors alike learn to embrace the dynamic weather, preparing for both sun-drenched moments and sudden showers. This blend of conditions makes May a transitional month, paving the way for the lush greenery that characterizes Donegal's summer landscape. For a deeper understanding of seasonal changes, explore the Donegal Climate resource.