Last updated: August 27, 2025
In May, the charming town of Alta, Norway experiences a remarkable transition as it shifts from the chill of winter to the embrace of spring. Temperatures show a delightful range, with a maximum of 19°C (67°F), an average of 3°C (38°F), and a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F). This month brings about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 17 days, creating a lush, vibrant landscape. Coupled with a high humidity level of 84%, these conditions contribute to a dynamic and atmospheric May, making it a unique time to explore the stunning natural beauty of Alta.
In Alta, Norway, May marks a notable transition in temperatures as the harsh winter recedes, giving way to the gentle embrace of spring. With minimum temperatures hovering around -8°C (18°F) and a pleasant average of 3°C (38°F), there's a clear upswing from the preceding months. Daytime highs can reach up to 19°C (67°F), allowing for more outdoor activities and a vibrant burst of nature. The warming trend sets the stage for the upcoming summer months, making May a delightful time to experience the unique beauty of the Arctic landscape as it awakens from its winter slumber.
In May, Alta, Norway experiences a notable peak in precipitation, with 63 mm (2.5 in) falling over 17 days, signaling a vibrant transition into late spring. This increase builds on the wetter conditions of April and marks the beginning of a trend that continues through the summer months, where June and July also see high rainfall levels of 89 mm (3.5 in) and 83 mm (3.3 in), respectively. The uptick in rainfall during May, the highest for that month in the year, hints at the approaching lushness of summer, as nature readies itself for the warmer days ahead. The consistent spread of wet days throughout the month reinforces this trend, showcasing the dynamic climate that characterizes Alta.
May marks a noticeable shift in humidity levels in Alta, Norway, as the month experiences a dip to 84% humidity. Following the highest winter readings, which reach a peak of 100% in January and gradually decline to 91% in April, May signals the beginning of a more stable climate. This pattern continues into June, where humidity remains steady at 84%, suggesting a transition towards the warmer summer months. As the year progresses, humidity levels begin to rise again, peaking once more in the fall, but May stands out as a defining moment where the heavy winter moisture starts to give way to milder, more comfortable conditions.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Alta, Norway, sees a notable increase in UV exposure, with the UV Index rising to 5. This marks a shift from the lower levels experienced in the early months of the year, where the index hovered between 1 and 3. With a moderate exposure category for May, residents and visitors should be mindful of their sun exposure, as the burn time decreases to 30 minutes. The trend continues into June and July, where the UV Index remains at 5, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during this vibrant season. For more detailed information about UV levels throughout the year, check out Alta UV Index.
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As spring blooms into summer, May emerges as a standout month in Alta, Norway, basking in an impressive 394 hours of sunshine. This marks a significant leap from the chilly, low-light days of January with just 5 hours of sunlight, capturing the dramatic shift in seasons. Following the gradual buildup in daylight hours through March and April, May's vibrant sunshine invites both residents and visitors to embrace the outdoors. Although June maintains a healthy 383 hours, it’s clear that May serves as the gateway to the endless daylight of summer, maximizing the joy of nature’s rebirth after the dark months. This increase not only uplifts spirits but also heralds the long, bright days that characterize the region's summer charm.
In Alta, Norway, the likelihood of sunny weather shows an interesting trend throughout the year. As winter wanes and spring unfolds, the chance of sunshine gradually increases from a scant 11% in January to a peak of 28% in April. However, as May arrives, a slight dip occurs, with sunny days expected only 19% of the time. This seasonal fluctuation hints at a transitional phase where lingering clouds of spring still hover, despite the long daylight hours. As summer approaches, the probability of sunny weather rebounds in June to 27%, suggesting that those yearning for bright days should hold onto the hope of sunnier skies just around the corner.
As spring turns to summer in Alta, Norway, the transformation in daylight duration is nothing short of remarkable. Starting with a mere 4 hours in January, the days gradually lengthen, bringing 7 hours in February and 11 hours by March. April ushers in a significant leap to 16 hours, igniting anticipation for the sun-drenched days ahead. May dazzles with an impressive 22 hours of daylight, paving the way for the phenomenon of the midnight sun in June, where 24 hours of daylight reign uninterrupted. This extended radiance gradually tapers off during the warm months, with 23 hours in July before dipping down to 18 hours in August. As autumn approaches, the daylight hours decrease again, demonstrating a stark contrast to the vibrant brightness of summer. The cycle culminates in December, where the Arctic night envelops the region, offering a stark reminder of nature's rhythms.
In Alta, Norway, the month of May sees an average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), reflecting a slight dip from the breezier months of March and September. As spring progresses, the winds in May are gentler compared to the peak of 3.0 m/s noted in both fall months of September and October. This trend of gradually reducing wind speeds in late spring continues into June, where the average drops further to 2.2 m/s (5 mph). Overall, May showcases a transition from the lively gusts of early spring towards the calm of summer, offering a serene backdrop for exploring the stunning landscapes of Alta.
Weather in Alta varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Alta, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
The weather in May presents a gentle transition from the cold winter months, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -8°C (18°F) at night to a pleasant 19°C (67°F) during the day. This month experiences an average temperature of around 3°C (38°F) and is characterized by relatively high humidity at 84%, coupled with 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread over 17 days.
In contrast, January is marked by deep winter temperatures, with a severe low of -28°C (-17°F) and a maximum of only 5°C (42°F), leading to an average temperature of -9°C (16°F). The month sees less precipitation, totaling 46 mm (1.8 in) over just 11 days, yet the humidity reaches a full 100%. For more detailed information about January weather in Alta, you can refer to Alta weather in January.
In comparing the weather between May and February, it's clear that May offers a significant transition towards milder conditions. While February experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -25°C (-12°F) and an average of -9°C (16°F), May sees a much warmer range, with temperatures starting at -8°C (18°F) and peaking at 19°C (67°F). February also has a higher humidity level at 99%, making it feel more frigid despite receiving less precipitation (48 mm over 12 days) compared to May's rainfall of 63 mm over 17 days. As such, May heralds the arrival of spring, showcasing more moderate temperatures and greater variability in weather, while February presents the harshness of winter. For more detailed weather information on February, visit Alta weather in February.
The weather in March is notably colder than in May, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) to a maximum of just 7°C (45°F), compared to May's milder range of -8°C (18°F) to 19°C (67°F). While March experiences slightly less precipitation at 59 mm (2.3 in) over 16 days, the humidity is higher at 95%, making the colder months feel even chillier. In contrast, May brings a warmer average temperature of 3°C (38°F) and more moderate humidity at 84%, allowing for some more pleasant spring conditions. For more detailed insights on the weather during this time, check out Alta weather in March.
In comparing the weather between May and April, it's clear that May is noticeably warmer, with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F) compared to April's average of -1°C (30°F). Although both months experience below-freezing temperatures at times, May features a higher maximum temperature of 19°C (67°F) versus April's 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in May at 63 mm (2.5 in) over 17 days, compared to April's 55 mm (2.2 in) across 14 days, though April has a bit more humidity at 91% compared to May's 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Alta weather in April.
May and June present a notable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average temperature of around 3°C (38°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 63 mm (2.5 in) over 17 days and maintains a high humidity level of 84%.
In contrast, June offers warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). However, this month sees increased precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over the same number of rainy days (17) while keeping the humidity steady at 84%. For more details on what to expect, you can check Alta weather in June.
May and July present contrasting weather patterns, with May experiencing a broader temperature range—from a chilling minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). In terms of precipitation, May sees 63 mm (2.5 in) over 17 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July offers warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Although July has slightly more precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, the humidity remains relatively stable at 85%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Alta weather in July.
May and August exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). This month also sees an average of 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 17 days, contributing to a rather humid atmosphere with 84% humidity. In contrast, August offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), resulting in an average of 11°C (52°F). It experiences slightly higher precipitation at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 15 rainy days and a higher humidity level at 90%. For more detailed insights about August weather, you can visit Alta weather in August.
May and September exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). The month experiences about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 17 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, September features slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -3°C (28°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). It sees higher precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, while humidity rises to 93%. These shifts reflect the transition from spring to autumn, making September notably wetter and more humid compared to May. For more detailed information, check out Alta weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, we see that May tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a low of -8°C (18°F) to a high of 19°C (67°F) and relatively lower humidity at 84%. This month also experiences more precipitation, averaging 63 mm (2.5 in) over 17 days. In contrast, October brings colder conditions with a wider temperature range that includes a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), pushing the average down to around 0°C (33°F). While October has slightly less precipitation at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 14 days, it does have higher humidity at 96%. For more detailed weather information, check out Alta weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature and humidity. May typically experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with average conditions around 3°C (38°F). The month sees around 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread across 17 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 84%. In stark contrast, November plunges into much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 7°C (44°F), resulting in an average of -4°C (24°F). Although November has slightly lower precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 14 days, the humidity reaches a staggering 99%, contributing to a much harsher environment. For a closer look at weather conditions, you can visit Alta weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). With 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 17 days and humidity averaging at 84%, the month is characterized by a cool, wet spring climate.
In contrast, December features much harsher conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a low of -24°C (-11°F) and averaging around -8°C (18°F), peaking at just 4°C (39°F). The precipitation decreases to 39 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days, but humidity is at a maximum of 100%, contributing to a notably colder and more intense winter atmosphere. For more information, you can check Alta weather in December.
As May unfolds in Alta, the transition into spring becomes evident, offering a refreshing change from the lingering winter chill. With average temperatures gradually rising, May presents a delightful mix of warmth and cool breezes, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities. Unlike the harsher conditions earlier in the year, this month sees an increase in precipitation, with rain appearing on about half the days, nurturing the vibrant landscape. The humidity remains relatively high, enhancing the feeling of freshness in the air. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns and conditions of Alta, be sure to check out Alta Climate.