Last updated: August 27, 2025
May in Rotterdam, Netherlands, showcases a delightful diversity in weather, featuring a maximum temperature reaching 31°C (87°F) while comfortably averaging 13°C (56°F). Visitors can expect a refreshing contrast, with minimum temperatures dipping to 1°C (35°F). Precipitation is a notable aspect of the month, totaling 65 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 12 rainy days, contributing to the region's lush greenery. Alongside these varying conditions, an average humidity of 82% adds to the atmospheric charm, making Rotterdam a unique spring destination that beautifully balances sunny warmth with those much-needed showers.
In May, Rotterdam experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 31°C (87°F). The average temperature settles at a comfortable 13°C (56°F), signaling the arrival of spring in full bloom. This month showcases a notable upward trend compared to the preceding months, particularly April, which had a high of just 27°C (81°F). As daylight stretches longer and the city vibrantly awakens, May becomes a perfect time for outdoor activities, where the pleasant warmth invites both locals and visitors to enjoy the picturesque parks and canals. With the gradual rise in temperatures, it’s clear that May hints at the sun-soaked days of summer just around the corner.
In May, Rotterdam experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 65 mm (2.5 in) of rain falling over approximately 12 days. This consistent rainfall marks a transition as spring gives way to early summer, contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes the city during this time. Interestingly, May's precipitation mirrors the higher levels seen in the preceding months of March and February, yet it surpasses the notably drier April, which recorded only 44 mm (1.7 in). As a result, residents can expect a refreshing blend of warm temperatures and frequent showers, setting the stage for the wetter months ahead.
In Rotterdam, the trends in humidity throughout the year reveal a gradual decline as we move from winter into spring and early summer. May, with its humidity at 82%, marks a slight decrease compared to the preceding months, reflecting a seasonal transition. This pattern continues into June and July, where levels stabilize at the same percentage. The drop from January's peak of 91% to May's relatively lower humidity suggests a shift towards drier conditions, creating a more comfortable environment for residents and visitors alike. As summer approaches, the city maintains a moderate humidity level, ensuring that the charm of Rotterdam shines through, even as the air becomes less humid.
As spring blooms into summer, May in Rotterdam marks a notable rise in UV exposure, with the UV Index reaching 7, categorized as high. This indicates a significant increase in sun intensity compared to the earlier months, where the Index hovered around 1 to 5. With a quicker burn time of just 25 minutes, it's essential for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As we transition from the cooler months, the trend highlights the importance of sun safety; while winter and early spring offer low exposure, the approach of summer brings a heightened risk of sunburn. Embrace the pleasant weather, but don't forget to protect your skin! To stay informed about UV levels throughout the year, check the Rotterdam UV Index.
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As spring unfolds into the vibrancy of May in Rotterdam, residents can bask in an impressive 411 hours of sunlight, marking a delightful peak in the annual cycle. This significant increase from the earlier months—where January starts with just 118 hours—highlights a gradual rise in daylight that culminates in summer's embrace. With 363 hours of sunshine in April and a slight uptick in June to 419 hours, May serves as a pivotal month, bridging the fresh blooms of spring with the full glory of summer. This trend not only elevates spirits but also creates an idyllic backdrop for outdoor activities, drawing both locals and visitors to enjoy the blossoming cityscape.
As spring unfolds in Rotterdam, the likelihood of sunny weather begins to take a gradually upward turn, peaking in April at 40%. However, by May, the chance of sun dips slightly to 32%, suggesting a flirtation with mixed skies as the season transitions. Despite this minor regression, May maintains a higher probability of sunshine compared to the dreary winter months, which typically hover below 30%. As summer approaches, the chances of basking in the sun rise again, indicating that while May may not promise uninterrupted sunshine, it still offers a significant reprieve from the clouds of earlier months.
In Rotterdam, Netherlands, the evolution of daylight duration throughout the year paints a vivid picture of the changing seasons. As winter fades, January starts with only 8 hours of daylight, slowly increasing to 9 hours in February. By March, the days stretch to 11 hours, marking the beginning of spring and a noticeable shift towards longer, sunnier days. April brings a delightful 13 hours, and May culminates in the bliss of 15 hours of daylight—perfect for enjoying outdoor activities as the city awakens. The trend continues into June and July, where daylight peaks at 16 hours, offering the longest days of the year. As summer wanes, daylight begins to recede, dropping to 14 hours in August and gradually dimming to 12 hours in September. The descent into fall sees shorter days, reducing to 10 hours in October and finally back to 8 hours in November and 7 hours in December. This rhythmic fluctuation of daylight not only defines Rotterdam’s seasons but also influences the ambiance and energy of the vibrant city throughout the year.
In May, Rotterdam experiences a gentle shift in its wind patterns, with an average speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph). This month tends to showcase a slight uptick compared to the preceding April, which recorded an average of 4.2 m/s (9 mph). Overall, May is characterized by a moderate breeze that hints at the approaching summer, following a trend of gradually decreasing wind speeds from January through April. Interestingly, as the month progresses toward summer, the winds in Rotterdam begin to soften, marking a transition toward the calmer breezes of June. It’s a time when outdoor activities flourish under the interacting elements of mild temperatures and gentle winds, embodying the vibrant spirit of spring in the Netherlands.
Weather in Rotterdam varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Rotterdam, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather of May and January, one can see a striking contrast. May boasts a mild temperature range, with minimums of 1°C (35°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (87°F), while January chills with minimums dropping to -8°C (19°F) and only peaking at 14°C (58°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with May receiving 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days and January slightly less at 57 mm (2.3 in) across the same number of days. However, the humidity in January is higher at 91%, compared to May's 82%, contributing to a greater feeling of dampness in the colder month. For more detailed information, visit Rotterdam weather in January.
May and February present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (87°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), while February experiences colder conditions, with a minimum of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging only 5°C (42°F). Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, around 65 mm (2.5-2.6 inches), but May tends to have a lower humidity level at 82%, compared to February's higher humidity of 89%. For more details on February's weather in Rotterdam, visit Rotterdam weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, a notable difference in temperature is immediately apparent. May typically experiences milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (87°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 13°C (56°F). In contrast, March sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F), leading to an average of only 7°C (45°F).
While both months have similar precipitation levels, May records 65 mm (2.5 in) over about 12 days, slightly less frequent than March’s 69 mm (2.7 in) spread across 14 days. Moreover, November generally has higher humidity at 82% compared to March's 87%. For a more detailed analysis of March weather, you can check Rotterdam weather in March.
May typically brings warmer temperatures compared to April, with a minimum of 1°C and a maximum reaching up to 31°C, while April sees temperatures ranging from -1°C to a maximum of 27°C. On average, May enjoys a higher average temperature of 13°C, compared to April’s 10°C. Additionally, May experiences greater precipitation, with 65 mm over 12 days, compared to April's 44 mm over 9 days. Despite the slight increase in precipitation, the humidity remains relatively high in both months, with May at 82% and April at 85%. For more specific information on April weather, you can check Rotterdam weather in April.
May and June exhibit a notable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (35°F) at night to a warm 31°C (87°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month typically experiences 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, maintaining a humidity level of 82%. In comparison, June brings slightly milder temperatures, with nighttime lows of 7°C (45°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F), averaging at 17°C (63°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 72 mm (2.8 in) but occurs over just 10 days, while humidity remains consistent at 82%. For a more detailed look at June weather, you can refer to Rotterdam weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (87°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences approximately 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days and maintains a high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, July showcases a more stable temperature profile, starting at a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and peaking at 38°C (101°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 68 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days, while humidity remains relatively lower at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Rotterdam weather in July.
May and August present notable contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (35°F) at night to a comfortable 31°C (87°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month also sees a relatively high humidity level at 82% and experiences about 65 mm (2.5 inches) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, August is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (48°F) to a maximum of 33°C (93°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). While slightly wetter with 84 mm (3.3 inches) of rain across 14 days, August boasts lower humidity levels at 76%. For more detailed weather insights, you can visit Rotterdam weather in August.
May and September share similar maximum temperatures, both reaching up to 31°C (87°F), but the overall feel of each month is quite different. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (35°F) to a comfortable average of 13°C (56°F), while September starts off warmer, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). Both months experience significant humidity at around 82%, which can make the warmer days feel oppressive. Precipitation is slightly higher in September, with 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days compared to May's 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days. For a more detailed look at the weather in September, you can refer to Rotterdam weather in September.
In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 31°C (87°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences around 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, October shows a more moderate temperature profile, with minimums of 2°C (36°F), maximums of 25°C (78°F), and an average of 12°C (55°F). Additionally, October is wetter with 92 mm (3.6 in) of rainfall over 16 days, and a slightly higher humidity of 89%. For more detailed information about weather patterns, you can visit Rotterdam weather in October.
May and November present distinct weather contrasts. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 31°C (87°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), creating a generally warmer atmosphere as spring unfolds. In comparison, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). While May sees 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, November is slightly drier with 56 mm (2.2 in) also spread across 12 days. Humidity levels are elevated in both months, at 82% in May and 92% in November, making the air feel quite moist. For a more detailed look at November’s weather, you can check out Rotterdam weather in November.
May and December illustrate a stark contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a cool 1°C (35°F) at night to a warm 31°C (87°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month enjoys lower humidity at 82% and receives about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, making it generally more pleasant. In contrast, December brings colder temperatures, with lows dropping to -4°C (25°F) and daytime highs averaging 6°C (43°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). The month is wetter, with around 90 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall spread over 17 days and increased humidity at 92%. For more details on December's weather, check Rotterdam weather in December.
As May arrives in Rotterdam, the weather begins to shift dramatically from the chill of winter and the uncertain spring temperatures. With averages settling comfortably around 13°C, this month often brings warmer days, and it's not uncommon to experience peaks up to 31°C, offering a pleasant escape from the briskness of earlier months. However, it also heralds a touch of humidity at 82%, along with roughly 12 days of precipitation contributing to a total of 65 mm. This transitional period is a refreshing preview of summer, making it an ideal time for exploration. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, check out Rotterdam Climate.