Last updated: March 17, 2025
May in Bristol, United Kingdom, presents a delightful blend of warmth and occasional showers. With a maximum temperature reaching 26°C (79°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F), residents experience the onset of spring in full bloom. However, the weather can be unpredictable, as 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain falls over 11 days, contributing to a humidity level of 80%. This combination of warmth and moisture nourishes the city's vibrant greenery, making May a picturesque month for both locals and visitors alike.
As May arrives in Bristol, UK, it heralds a delightful transition into warmer weather. This month witnesses a notable rise in temperatures, with minimums settling around a cool 0°C (33°F) and averages climbing to a pleasant 12°C (55°F). The city can expect maximum temperatures to soar to a delightful 26°C (79°F), marking a significant shift from the lingering chill of winter. This upward trend from previous months not only invites residents outdoors but also enhances the vibrancy of the city as flowers bloom and activities abound. May, therefore, stands out as a month of reawakening, perfectly balancing the crisp romance of spring with the anticipation of the summer heat to come.
In May, Bristol experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 rainy days. This marks a significant uptick compared to the more moderate 50 mm (2.0 in) in April, showcasing the city’s typical transition into a wetter late spring. The rainfall in May is consistent with the trend of gradual increase seen from earlier months, peaking in the later summer with August's 78 mm (3.1 in), hinting at a distinct pattern of rain-drenched months as the year progresses. Overall, May serves as a reminder of the UK’s unpredictable weather, blending the freshness of spring with the promise of the coming summer.
As Bristol transitions into May, the city experiences a notable decline in humidity, dropping to 80% from the higher levels predominant in the earlier months of the year. This change marks a refreshing shift from the dampness of winter, as both January and February record humidity of 88%, gradually decreasing to 84% in April. The milder and more pleasant May weather signals a welcoming path toward summer, where humidity levels stabilize at 80% in June. Overall, this trend highlights Bristol's gentle shift from the heavy, moisture-laden air of winter towards a more comfortable spring atmosphere, making May an inviting time for outdoor activities and exploration.
As spring transitions to summer in Bristol, the UV Index in May rises to a high level of 7, indicating a notable shift in sun exposure. With a reduced burn time of just 25 minutes, it’s crucial for residents and visitors to stay vigilant about sun protection during this month. This increase in UV radiation from April, which had an index of 5, signals a trend towards more intense sunlight as the year progresses. Following May, June and July will peak, reaching very high levels of 8. Thus, as you plan outings in May, remember to protect your skin and enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities that Bristol has to offer. For more detailed information, visit Bristol UV Index.
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May shines brightly in Bristol, boasting an impressive 381 hours of sunshine that beckons residents and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors. This delightful month follows a steady increase in sunlight hours since the dull winter days, with February's 142 hours blossoming into vibrant 308 hours by April. As spring transitions to summer, May not only captures the essence of rebirth with its abundant sun but also sets the stage for even sunnier days ahead, with June and July bringing 364 and 395 hours, respectively. The upward trajectory of sunshine hours reflects a joyful anticipation of summer adventures, making Bristol an inviting haven for all who seek warmth and light.
In Bristol, the likelihood of sunny weather sees a noticeable shift as we move into May, boasting a 34% chance of sunshine. While this figure is lower than the preceding month's impressive 52%, it reflects a typical springtime variability in the region. As April enjoys a brief peak in sun-soaked days, May reintroduces a moderate chance of sunshine, despite being eclipsed by the summer months ahead. This transitional period illustrates the gentle march toward summer, hinting that while May offers a respectable chance for clear skies, the warm embrace of sun-drenched days lies just beyond the horizon in the approaching months of June and July.
As spring blooms into summer in Bristol, the daylight hours experience a remarkable shift, culminating in May with an invigorating 15 hours of sunlight. This month marks a significant transition from the 13 hours of daylight seen in April, evidencing a steady increase as we progress towards the longest days of the year. The upward trend in daylight continues into June and July, peaking at 16 hours before gradually tapering off into the autumn months. By September, daylight starts to dwindle down to 12 hours, reminding us that while summer may be fleeting, May's vibrant energy provides a beautiful bridge to the sun-soaked days ahead.
In Bristol, May ushers in a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), creating a refreshing ambiance that typically reflects the transition towards summer. After a notably calmer April, where winds dropped to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), May's winds pick up slightly, aligning closely with the winter months, such as October and January, where speeds climb back to 4.2 m/s and 4.3 m/s respectively. This trend showcases Bristol's variable spring weather, balancing between milder conditions and the promise of warmer days ahead. As the city prepares for the bustling summer, the winds of May are a subtle reminder of nature’s rhythm, maintaining a lively, yet pleasant atmosphere for all who venture outdoors.
The weather in Bristol 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 Bristol and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature, precipitation, and humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month brings about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a relatively moderate humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January sees colder temperatures, with a range from -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). The precipitation level is slightly lower at 56 mm (2.2 in) spread over about 10 days, but humidity is higher at 88%. For more details on January weather, you can visit Bristol weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, May presents a much milder climate with average temperatures ranging from 0°C (33°F) to a pleasant high of 26°C (79°F), whereas February sees colder averages between -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). May also experiences slightly higher precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days compared to February's 67 mm (2.6 in) spread across 13 days. Additionally, the humidity levels are lower in May at 80%, compared to February's higher humidity of 88%. For more details on the weather specifics in February, you can refer to Bristol weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, May offers a more moderate climate with average temperatures soaring to 12°C (55°F), whereas March experiences a cooler average of 7°C (46°F). Notably, while both months see similar total precipitation, May tends to have slightly less rain spread over fewer days—11 days compared to March's 14 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with May at 80% and March slightly higher at 86%. For a more detailed overview, you can check Bristol weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it's clear that May tends to be warmer and more variable. The minimum temperature rises from -3°C (27°F) in April to 0°C (33°F) in May, with an average temperature increase to 12°C (55°F) compared to April's 9°C (49°F). Additionally, May can see maximum temperatures reaching up to 26°C (79°F), while April peaks at 23°C (74°F). However, May also experiences slightly more precipitation, with 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days compared to April's 50 mm (2.0 in) across 8 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, but May is slightly less humid at 80% compared to April's 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Bristol weather in April.
May and June weather exhibit some interesting differences while sharing similar characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, maintaining a humidity level of 80%. On the other hand, June experiences notably warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), leading to a higher average of 16°C (61°F). Despite the slightly lower precipitation of 72 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, June maintains the same humidity level of 80%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Bristol weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a warm maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month also sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July provides a more temperate climate with minimum temperatures of 7°C (46°F) and maximum temperatures peaking at 30°C (87°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 68 mm (2.7 in), also spread across 11 days, while humidity drops to 70%. Overall, July offers warmer temperatures and slightly less humidity, making it a more comfortable month compared to May. For more specific details, check out Bristol weather in July.
May and August present notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) to a comfortable 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 80% and sees 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, August features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, but humidity decreases to 73%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Bristol weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns, with May typically experiencing cooler temperatures and higher humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). It sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to its relatively humid conditions at 80%. In contrast, September offers a slightly warmer experience, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Rainfall in September is less, at 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 9 days, and humidity is marginally lower at 79%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can check Bristol weather in September.
May and October contrast significantly in weather patterns despite sharing similar average temperatures. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with average precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 11 rainy days and a humidity level of 80%. Conversely, October sees a slight drop in maximum temperature to 23°C (73°F) but introduces cooler minimums, averaging -1°C (31°F), and higher precipitation levels of 101 mm (4.0 in) over about 14 days, contributing to a humidity of 89%. These differences highlight how May generally offers more pleasant and warmer conditions compared to the wetter and cooler October experiences. For more on October's climate specifics, check Bristol weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month experiences a decent amount of rainfall, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by moderate humidity at 80%. In contrast, November sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), averaging around 8°C (47°F). While November has slightly less precipitation at 66 mm (2.6 in), it lasts over 13 days and features higher humidity levels at 90%. For more detailed information, you can check Bristol weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures typically range from a mild 0°C (33°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month sees around 73 mm (2.9 inches) of precipitation over approximately 11 days and maintains a humidity level of about 80%. Conversely, December is much colder, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and peaking at 14°C (58°F), averaging just 7°C (44°F). This month experiences slightly more precipitation at 90 mm (3.5 inches) across 15 days, and humidity rises to 89%. For more details on December weather specifically, you can check Bristol weather in December.
As May unfolds in Bristol, residents experience a delightful transition from the chill of spring to the warmth of early summer. The average temperatures begin to rise, reaching pleasantly mild conditions, contrasting sharply with the colder months. While some rain may occur, May typically boasts more sunshine and less precipitation compared to earlier spring, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The air is also quite humid, but it feels invigorating with the blooming flora. The overall change in climate not only enhances the city's vibrancy but also sets the stage for the summer months ahead. To learn more about what to expect throughout the year, visit Bristol Climate.