May Weather in Lausanne, Switzerland

Last updated: August 27, 2025

May in Lausanne, Switzerland brings a delightful warming trend as temperatures peak at a pleasant 26°C (79°F), while the average hovers around a moderate 12°C (55°F). However, the month also experiences cooler nights, dipping as low as 1°C (34°F). With an average precipitation of 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, visitors should be prepared for a mix of sun and rain, creating a lush and vibrant spring backdrop. The air is filled with an 80% humidity level, enhancing the fresh, fragrant essence of the blooming landscape, making May an enchanting time to explore this picturesque city.

May Temperature in Lausanne

In May, Lausanne, Switzerland experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures gradually rising and inviting a vibrant atmosphere. The month begins with a minimum temperature of 1°C (34°F), marking a significant improvement compared to the chill of early spring. As the days progress, the average temperature climbs to a comfortable 12°C (55°F), while daytime highs can reach a pleasant 26°C (79°F). This warm trend sets the stage for outdoor activities and scenic strolls along the stunning Lake Geneva. Both locals and visitors can revel in the blossoming landscapes, as May showcases a welcoming blend of mild nights and sunny days, reflecting nature's awakening after the winter months.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Lausanne, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Lausanne, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec374043485463676761534539
Data source: Temperature data for Lausanne 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 Lausanne

May in Lausanne brings a noticeable uptick in rainfall, with precipitation soaring to 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days. This increase follows the relatively dry spell of April, which recorded just 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain. As spring transitions into summer, the city's lush landscapes benefit from this heightened precipitation, making it a vibrant time of year. Interestingly, while May is one of the wettest months, it still maintains a consistent rhythm, echoing the generally damp climate observed throughout the winter months. This pattern sets the stage for the warmth of June, where the rain subsides slightly to 103 mm (4.1 in) over 13 days, indicating that while May's showers are plentiful, they serve to nurture the region's natural beauty in anticipation of sunnier days ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Lausanne

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lausanne, 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. In Lausanne, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11693111591421031061017510498186
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Lausanne

As spring transitions into summer, May brings a refreshing dip in humidity to Lausanne, Switzerland, averaging around 80%. This marks a gradual decline from the higher levels experienced earlier in the year, with January's 91% setting a saturated tone for the season. The drop in humidity from April's 84% to May's 80% creates a more comfortable atmosphere, as residents and visitors alike begin to enjoy the outdoor charm of the city. Interestingly, this month’s humidity is still relatively low compared to the subsequent summer months of June and July, where the levels stabilize at 82%. As such, May serves as a sweet spot, balancing the lingering moisture of spring with the warmer, drier days ahead.

May Average Humidity in Lausanne

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lausanne, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Lausanne is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%84%80%82%82%77%81%89%89%91%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Lausanne

As the month of May arrives in Lausanne, Switzerland, the UV Index escalates to a striking 8, placing it in the very high exposure category. This marks a significant jump from the previous months, where the index was moderately to highly rated. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it’s essential to be proactive about sun protection during outdoor activities. This trend of increasing UV levels showcases a shift towards the summer months, where July and June further push the index to 10 and 9, respectively. As the sun’s intensity strengthens, residents and visitors alike should stay informed and take appropriate precautions. For more details, visit the Lausanne UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lausanne for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lausanne 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. In May, the maximum UV index in Lausanne typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2467810997532
Data source: Lausanne 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 Lausanne

May shines brightly in Lausanne, Switzerland, with 355 hours of sunshine that almost matches the peak of summer. This delightful month marks a turning point in the year, as daylight hours surge, building on the steady increase since January. After basking in 297 hours of sunshine in March and 354 hours in April, the city welcomes May with open arms, bringing forth an atmosphere of warmth and vibrancy. As the days grow longer and sunnier, residents and visitors alike revel in the beauty of spring, paving the way for even sunnier months ahead, with June reaching 394 hours. This gradual ascent not only highlights the allure of May but also sets the stage for an exhilarating summer in Lausanne.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lausanne: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lausanne 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec167h231h297h354h355h394h418h388h330h288h229h197h
Data source: Lausanne May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lausanne During May

In Lausanne, Switzerland, the likelihood of sunny weather experiences an interesting shift throughout the year. As we move from January's meager 15% chance of sunshine towards the May forecast, we see a gradual rise, peaking in April with a notable 51%. However, in May, that probability dips to 33%, reflecting a common trend of spring transitioning into summer. Despite the decline, May still offers a decent chance for clear skies, hinting at the variability of the weather as it prepares for the warmer months ahead. Overall, while the sunny days may be fewer in May compared to April, the allure of spring in Lausanne still promises pleasant experiences, even if they're sometimes interspersed with clouds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Lausanne

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lausanne 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 Lausanne experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%37%48%51%33%38%40%42%36%38%29%25%
Data source: Lausanne May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lausanne in May

As spring unfolds into summer in Lausanne, Switzerland, the daylight duration increases dramatically, offering a refreshing contrast to the shorter days of winter. In January, daylight lasts for a mere 9 hours, slowly growing to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. By April, the light intensifies, extending to 13 hours as nature bursts into bloom. The peak of this gradual ascent occurs in May, where residents bask in 15 hours of daylight, a trend that continues through June and July. As summer wanes in August, the daylight begins its gentle decline, settling at 14 hours before transitioning into September's 12 hours. The cycle then repeats, with a return to the shorter days of late autumn and winter, reminding us of the rhythm of nature's light.

Average Daylight Hours in Lausanne for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lausanne throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 2m10h 19m11h 56m13h 35m15h15h 43m15h 20m14h 5m12h 29m10h 51m9h 24m8h 38m
Data source: Lausanne daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Lausanne

In May, the gentle breezes of Lausanne, Switzerland, offer a delightful transition into the warmer months, with an average wind speed of 1.7 m/s (4 mph). This slight dip from April's 1.9 m/s hints at the calming effect of late spring, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for leisurely strolls by the lake. As the seasons progress, wind speeds gradually diminish, reaching their lowest in July and August, which brings a more serene ambiance. Yet, as autumn approaches, the wind picks up again, restoring a familiar rhythm as October and November bring average speeds back to 4 mph. Overall, May captures that sweet spot, balancing comfort and liveliness, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the beauty of the season.

Average May Wind Speed in Lausanne

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lausanne, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.81.71.81.91.7 m/s1.41.51.51.31.71.61.7
Data source: Lausanne May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Lausanne Compares to Other Months

Weather in Lausanne varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Lausanne, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

May and January present quite distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a pleasant average of 12°C (55°F) during the day, peaking at a warm 26°C (79°F). This month also sees higher precipitation, with about 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain falling over 15 days, accompanied by an 80% humidity level.

In contrast, January is considerably colder, with nighttime temperatures plunging to -7°C (20°F) and daytime averages only reaching around 3°C (37°F); however, highs can go up to 14°C (57°F). The precipitation in January is slightly less, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, but the humidity is higher at 91%. For more details on January weather, check out Lausanne weather in January.

In comparison to February, May offers significantly warmer temperatures, with an average of 12°C (55°F) compared to February's cooler 4°C (40°F). While February experiences minimum temperatures dipping as low as -10°C (15°F), May's temperatures rarely fall below 1°C (34°F). Additionally, May is marked by increased precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, in contrast to February's 93 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days. However, humidity remains high in both months, with February slightly higher at 89% compared to 80% in May. For more insights into February weather, you can visit Lausanne weather in February.

May and March present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month experiences about 15 days of precipitation totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) and a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, March starts cooler, with temperatures fluctuating between -9°C (17°F) and 20°C (68°F), and has an average of 6°C (43°F). Despite slightly less precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, it is also more humid, with a humidity level of 87%. For more detailed information on March conditions, you can visit Lausanne weather in March. Overall, May tends to be warmer and slightly drier compared to the colder and more humid conditions of March.

When comparing the weather patterns of April and May, May tends to be warmer, with an average temperature rising to 12°C (55°F) compared to April's average of 9°C (49°F). Although May experiences higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 26°C (79°F), it also sees increased precipitation, with 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, contrasting with April's 59 mm (2.3 in) over just 9 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 80% in May and slightly higher at 84% in April. For a detailed look at April's weather, you can visit Lausanne weather in April.

May and June exhibit distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 rainy days and maintaining a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and soaring to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 17°C (64°F). Precipitation in June is less, at 103 mm (4.1 in) across 13 days, and humidity slightly increases to 82%. For a detailed look at rainfall and temperature specifics, visit Lausanne weather in June.

May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, accumulating 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 80%. In contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a peak reaching 34°C (94°F), averaging around 19°C (67°F). Although July sees slightly less precipitation at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 13 days, it maintains a high humidity level of 82%. For a more detailed look at the July climate, you can refer to Lausanne weather in July.

May and August showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. May tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging around 12°C (55°F). This month also experiences a higher level of precipitation, averaging 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 rainy days, and a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August offers a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 31°C (89°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). Rainfall decreases in August to about 101 mm (4.0 in) across 11 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 77%. To learn more about the specifics of August weather, you can visit Lausanne weather in August.

May and September showcase distinct weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a warmer 26°C (79°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (55°F). However, it is also the wettest month, experiencing about 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, September sees milder temperatures with nighttime lows of 6°C (43°F) and daytime highs reaching 27°C (81°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 75 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, while humidity remains slightly elevated at 81%. For a more detailed look at September weather, you can visit Lausanne weather in September.

May and October present distinct weather patterns despite their similar average temperatures. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) to a warm 26°C (79°F), but it also experiences relatively high precipitation at 142 mm (5.6 in) over about 15 days, contributing to humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, October sees slightly milder temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). The month is drier, with 104 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall over just 12 days, though humidity increases to 89%. For a detailed look at the typical conditions during this time, check out Lausanne weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather patterns, reflective of the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month sees significant rainfall, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over about 15 days, alongside a relatively high humidity level of 80%. In stark contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). Rainfall is reduced to 98 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 12 days, but humidity remains markedly higher at 89%. For more details on the weather in November, you can visit Lausanne weather in November.

May and December present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to winter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month experiences about 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, December brings colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), averaging only 4°C (39°F). This month sees higher precipitation at 186 mm (7.3 in) across 17 days and a humidity level of 91%, which makes the air feel even colder. For those interested in delving deeper into December's climate, visit Lausanne weather in December.

Compare Lausanne's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Lausanne

As May unfolds in Lausanne, it heralds a shift from the chilly embrace of winter towards the warmth of summer. With temperatures rising to an inviting maximum of 26°C (79°F), the month feels markedly more comfortable than the preceding months. However, don’t be fooled by the warmth; May also brings a healthy dose of precipitation, with rain gracing the city on about half the days. This combination of moderate temperatures and increased humidity—often reaching 80%—creates a lush environment perfect for outdoor exploration. For more insights on how Lausanne’s weather varies throughout the year, check out Lausanne Climate.