Last updated: August 31, 2025
In May, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen experience a remarkable transition as winter gives way to spring. The maximum temperature reaches a mild 6°C (43°F), while the average temperature hovers around -4°C (25°F), making this month a time of noticeable change. However, the temperatures can dip as low as -16°C (4°F), highlighting the lingering chill of the Arctic environment. As the landscape begins to thaw, precipitation accumulates, totaling 35 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days, contributing to the lush scenery. With a humidity level of 94%, the air feels crisp and invigorating, setting the stage for the spectacular natural beauty that Svalbard has to offer.
May marks a significant transition in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, as temperatures begin to rise from the harsh winter chill. With minimums around -16°C (4°F) and averages reaching -4°C (25°F), the month offers a clear departure from the depths of winter. Daily highs can even approach 6°C (43°F), ushering in a sense of spring in this Arctic community. This gradual warming trend from the coldest months of January to April not only provides a relative respite but also hints at the upcoming summer, characterized by more moderate temperatures in June and beyond. As the dark winter days give way to more daylight, May serves as a pivotal point, where the stark beauty of the polar landscape begins to thaw, revealing a softer side to this remote location.
May brings a steady continuation of the cool and variable climate in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen. With 35 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation recorded over 9 days, the month mirrors January's rainfall, suggesting a pattern of stability in spring. Notably, as we pivot towards the summer months, precipitation tends to increase, peaking in September with 75 mm (3.0 in), but May stands as a transitional phase—nestled between the crispness of winter and the moist warmth of summer. This balance of precipitation allows for the melting of snow and the sprouting of flora, while also hinting at the wetter conditions to come, particularly in July and August. Over time, May holds steady, reassuring both residents and visitors of its unique arctic charm.
In May, Longyearbyen experiences a noticeable drop in humidity, with levels averaging 94%, a slight reprieve from the near-saturation conditions of earlier months. This reduction signals the transition into the summer season, as the town gradually warms and the thick winter air begins to dissipate. Interestingly, the trend of high humidity persists across the months leading up to May, peaking in the summer with levels that can reach 101% in August. Although May offers a breath of fresh air, the surrounding months still showcase the dominant presence of moisture in Longyearbyen’s Arctic climate, making it a unique destination shaped by its challenging weather patterns.
As spring unfolds in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, the UV index sees a noticeable rise, reflecting the increasing strength of the sun. In May, the UV index reaches 3, marking a shift to the moderate exposure category, which shortens the burn time to just 30 minutes. This change highlights the importance of sun protection as residents and visitors start to enjoy the outdoors after the long polar winter. Interestingly, the UV index remains consistent at 3 throughout June and July, indicating a stable pattern of moderate UV levels. As summer wanes into August, it dips back to 2, returning to low exposure, reminiscent of the earlier months of the year. For more detailed insights on UV levels and sun safety throughout the year, check out the Longyearbyen UV Index.
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As May unfolds in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, residents and visitors alike celebrate the arrival of abundant sunlight, basking in 495 hours of daylight. This stunning increase from April's 387 hours marks a pivotal transition from the long, dark winter months, where January sees a mere 0 hours of sunshine. The gradual lengthening of days throughout the year is especially dramatic, with the polar sun fully re-emerging in February, which offers just 14 hours. By May, the light reaches its zenith, inviting exploration and outdoor activities in this Arctic paradise. As the summer approaches, the trend of increasing daylight continues into June and July, but May stands out as a month of vibrant rejuvenation and lively activities, making it a delightful time to experience the beauty of Svalbard under the sun.
As the long polar winter gives way to spring, the chances of sunny weather in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen begin to rise significantly. In May, the likelihood of sunshine jumps to 33%, marking a notable increase from the preceding months of January through April, which struggle with percentages as low as 10% to 17%. This upward trend signals the approach of the Midnight Sun, as daylight hours expand and the landscape starts to burst into life. In stark contrast, summer sees a decline in sunshine likelihood, with June sitting back at 17%, and July dipping to 10%. This cyclical pattern illustrates a unique climatic rhythm, where May stands out as a vibrant month, inviting adventurers to soak in the fleeting rays that herald the arrival of summer in the Arctic.
In the unique landscapes of Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and Jan Mayen, the daylight duration dramatically transforms throughout the year, showcasing nature's vivid rhythm. January and November plunge into total darkness, offering a stark contrast to the gradual emergence of light in February, when daylight begins its timid return with just 4 hours. As spring unfolds, March delights with 11 hours of light, and by April, the days stretch to an invigorating 20 hours. The brilliance peaks in May, June, and July, where 24 hours of daylight ignites the natural world, inviting exploration and adventure under the endless sun. As summer wanes, August still offers an impressive 23 hours, yet the gradual decline begins, culminating in September's 14 hours and dipping back into the darkness by October. Thus, the ever-changing daylight not only shapes the environment but also influences the lifestyle of those who inhabit this remarkable Arctic region.
As the chill of winter retreats in Longyearbyen, May ushers in a noticeable decline in wind speed, averaging just 2.3 m/s (5 mph). This milder breeze marks a shift from the slightly brisker conditions of earlier months, with January's winds reaching 3.8 m/s (9 mph). Throughout the spring, the trend reveals a gentle easing, with wind speeds in May being the lowest of the year, compared to the relatively higher gusts of April at 3.4 m/s (8 mph) and March at 3.1 m/s (7 mph). As summer approaches, winds show a slight uptick in June, yet remain comfortably low, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Svalbard and Jan Mayen in a more serene atmosphere.
Weather in Longyearbyen varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Longyearbyen, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 6°C (43°F), with an average of -4°C (25°F). The month experiences about 35 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 94%. Conversely, January is significantly colder, with temperatures dipping from a minimum of -24°C (-12°F) to a maximum of 2°C (35°F), averaging -12°C (11°F). January also has a similar level of precipitation at 35 mm (1.4 in), but it falls over fewer days, just 7, and features an even higher humidity of 98%. For more details on January weather, you can refer to Longyearbyen weather in January.
Comparing the weather in May and February reveals a significant shift in conditions. In February, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F), while May offers a milder experience with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of -4°C (25°F). February also sees more precipitation, accumulating 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 35 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days. Additionally, February's humidity reaches a higher level at 99%, while May's humidity settles at 94%. For more details, you can check out Longyearbyen weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it is evident that May is considerably milder. While March experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -30°C (-22°F) and an average of -14°C (7°F), May sees a significant rise with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of -4°C (25°F). Additionally, the maximum temperature in May reaches 6°C (43°F), while in March, the maximum barely touches 2°C (37°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with March receiving slightly more at 38 mm (1.5 in) compared to May's 35 mm (1.4 in), but both months have precipitation on about 9 days. Notably, humidity remains high in both months, reaching 94% in May and 99% in March, which is typical for the region. For a more detailed look, you can check Longyearbyen weather in March.
Comparing the weather in May and April, it is evident that May experiences milder temperatures, with average highs of 6°C (43°F) compared to April's maximum of just 1°C (34°F). In terms of minimum temperatures, May's -16°C (4°F) is significantly warmer than April's, which dips to -26°C (-14°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with May receiving 35 mm over 9 days and April seeing slightly more at 38 mm over 10 days. The humidity remains high in both months, with April having a humidity level of 98% compared to May's 94%. For more detailed insights into April's weather, you can refer to Longyearbyen weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, one can observe a gradual warming trend. May sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 6°C (43°F), with an average of -4°C (25°F) and a relatively high humidity of 94%. This month also experiences about 35 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, June offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F). The precipitation decreases slightly to 31 mm (1.2 in) over 8 days, while humidity remains high at 95%. For a more detailed look at June's weather, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in June.
In May, the weather in Longyearbyen is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of just 6°C (43°F). The average temperature hovers around -4°C (25°F), accompanied by 35 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days, and a high humidity level of 94%. In contrast, July brings milder conditions, with minimum temperatures reaching 0°C (33°F) and maximums climbing to 16°C (61°F). The average temperature is notably higher at 6°C (43°F), and rainfall increases to 53 mm (2.1 in) spread over 13 days, while humidity rises slightly to 99%. Overall, July offers a more temperate climate compared to the harsh conditions of May. For more insights on July weather, visit Longyearbyen weather in July.
May and August in Longyearbyen present distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 6°C (43°F), with an average hovering around -4°C (25°F). The month experiences 35 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 94%. In contrast, August sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while the average temperature is 5°C (41°F). Precipitation increases to 52 mm (2.0 in) spread across 10 days, and humidity spikes to 101%, indicating a more humid atmosphere. For more details on the August weather, you can check Longyearbyen weather in August.
May and September in Longyearbyen showcase contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures remain quite chilly, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of -4°C (25°F), while the maximum reaches only 6°C (43°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 35 mm (1.4 in) over about 9 days, and humidity is relatively high at 94%. In comparison, September experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F), peaking at 8°C (46°F). This month also brings more rainfall, accumulating to 75 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, and humidity increases to 99%. For a closer look at the specific weather in September, check out Longyearbyen weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with May showing a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and a maximum of 6°C (43°F), while October's temperatures hover slightly higher, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of 7°C (44°F). The average temperature remains consistent at around -4°C (25°F) in May and -4°C (26°F) in October. Precipitation levels are nearly identical, with both months receiving about 34-35 mm (1.4 in) over nine days, though October tends to have a slightly higher humidity at 97% compared to May's 94%. For a closer look at October's weather specifics, you can visit Longyearbyen weather in October.
May weather in Longyearbyen presents a milder transition from winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 6°C (43°F). This month sees an average temperature of -4°C (25°F) and experiences about 35 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 94%. In contrast, November is significantly colder, with temperature extremes reaching a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and a maximum of 5°C (41°F), averaging -8°C (18°F). Precipitation increases to 46 mm (1.8 in), falling over 12 days, and humidity rises to a notable 98%. The stark difference in temperatures and precipitation patterns between these two months highlights the harsh transition into the long winter season. For more detailed insights, you can check out Longyearbyen weather in November.
In comparison to the weather in May, December experiences much colder temperatures and higher humidity levels. May typically sees minimum temperatures around -16°C (4°F) and an average of -4°C (25°F), while December plunges even lower, with minimum temperatures reaching -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation is greater in December, with 53 mm (2.1 in) over 12 days compared to May's 35 mm (1.4 in) across 9 days. Additionally, humidity in December peaks at 98%, slightly higher than the 94% average humidity found in May. To learn more about the specific conditions in December, visit Longyearbyen weather in December.
As May unfolds in Longyearbyen, the transition from the harsh Arctic winter to the milder summer becomes evident, with temperatures beginning to rise and daylight stretching longer than ever. While the average temperature remains below freezing, it's noticeably warmer compared to the biting cold of previous months. The month witnesses an increase in precipitation as humidity levels hover around a high 94%, contributing to a unique blend of rain and melting snow. With approximately nine wet days, May may not be the driest month, but it certainly marks a pivotal shift in the landscape as the region shakes off the winter chill. For a deeper understanding of the weather trends, explore the Longyearbyen Climate.