May Weather in City of London, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

May in the City of London showcases a delightful transition into warmer weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 25°C (78°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). While the temperatures offer a pleasant escape, minimums can dip to 1°C (34°F), reminding residents of the lingering chill. Rainfall is noticeable, with a total precipitation amount of 63 mm (2.5 in) spread over 10 days, contributing to the city’s lush greenery. High humidity levels at 82% create a fresh, albeit muggy atmosphere, ideal for exploring the vibrant streets and parks of London.

May Temperature in City of London

In May, the City of London begins to shake off the chill of winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (78°F). This month marks a significant transition, as the average temperature settles at a comfortable 13°C (55°F), hinting at the warmer days ahead. Compared to the earlier months, May's weather showcases a notable warming trend; after the brisk temperatures of April, Londoners can finally indulge in the joys of spring. As the month progresses, the inviting warmth encourages outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to explore the city's vibrant parks and gardens. With daylight stretching longer, May truly embodies the essence of blossoming life and rejuvenation in the heart of London.

May Weather in City of London: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in City of London, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414346495562656459544643
Data source: Temperature data for City of London 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 City of London

May marks a noticeable increase in precipitation for the City of London, with 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain falling over 10 days. This uptick follows April's relatively dry spell of 32 mm (1.3 in) across just 7 days, signaling a transition into the wetter months ahead. Compared to previous months, May's rainfall not only surpasses earlier totals but also aligns with a broader trend, as rainfall generally intensifies moving into the summer. As the city sheds its April showers, the arrival of May ushers in a lush vibrancy, underlining the dynamic nature of London's weather patterns.

May Precipitation Trends in City of London

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in City of London, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec545253326377647245814884
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in City of London

In the City of London, May witnesses a notable dip in humidity, settling at 82%, a significant drop from the damp winter months that start at 91% in January. This decrease reflects a gradual shift toward drier air as spring transitions into summer, with April's humidity at 85% paving the way. The trend continues into June, where humidity slightly lowers to 81%, suggesting that while May's weather may still feel muggy, it heralds the approach of sunnier days ahead. As the year progresses, humidity levels continue to decline, reaching their lowest point in August at 73%, thereby illustrating a seasonal ebb and flow that characterizes London’s climate.

May Average Humidity in City of London

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in City of London, with May's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how May's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%86%85%82%81%76%73%80%89%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in City of London

As May arrives in the City of London, the UV Index sees a notable increase, reaching 7, which falls into the high exposure category. This shift indicates that sun safety becomes paramount, with a reduced burn time of just 25 minutes. Compared to the earlier months, where the UV levels were predominantly low to moderate, May marks a transition into the sunnier season, advising residents and visitors to take precautions when enjoying outdoor activities. As June approaches, the UV Index will escalate even further, highlighting the importance of vigilant sun protection. For more detailed insights, you can check the City of London UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in City of London for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for City of London 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578876421
Data source: City of London 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 City of London

May brings a delightful surge of sunshine to the City of London, with 398 hours of brilliant sunlight illuminating the city's vibrant streets. This marks a significant increase compared to the cooler months, showcasing a continued trend of blossoming daylight as spring reaches its peak. The rise from 319 hours in April to 398 hours in May highlights not just a transition in the seasons, but an awakening of energy and vitality in the air. Following this sunny month, June maintains the momentum with 393 hours of sunlight, while July reaches its zenith. Londoners relish these sun-drenched days, as May’s extended daylight serves as a fresh reminder of the beauty that summer holds just around the corner.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in City of London: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours City of London 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec95h146h211h319h398h393h405h372h300h240h142h106h
Data source: City of London May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in City of London During May

In the City of London, the likelihood of sunny weather shows a noticeable trend as the year progresses, peaking in April at 49%. By May, the chance of sunshine dips to 34%, suggesting that while spring is still holding on, the sunny days are becoming less frequent as the year moves toward summer. Interestingly, after May, the probability fluctuates, with July bringing a healthier 39% chance of sun, before declining again in the later summer months. This pattern underscores that although May offers a decent opportunity for sunny spells as spring transitions into summer, it's essential to be prepared for the typical mix of London weather.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in City of London

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in City of London 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 City of London experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec19%25%29%49%34%29%39%26%29%25%32%17%
Data source: City of London May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in City of London in May

As spring unfolds into summer, the City of London experiences a notable increase in daylight hours, particularly in May, when the average stretches to a vibrant 15 hours. This growth in daylight signals the peak of the season's brightness, following a steady rise from 8 hours in January to 13 hours in April. The trend continues into June and July, where daylight reaches its zenith at 16 hours. As the year progresses, daylight gradually wanes, with August seeing a slight dip to 14 hours before transitioning into the shorter days of autumn. This cycle beautifully illustrates London's seasonal rhythm, where the long, sunlit days of spring and summer offer a stark contrast to the shorter, cozier days of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in City of London for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in City of London throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 23m9h 58m11h 55m13h 54m15h 38m16h 33m16h 4m14h 30m12h 35m10h 36m8h 49m7h 53m
Data source: City of London daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in City of London

In May, the winds in the City of London gently pick up, averaging around 4.2 m/s (9 mph). This slight increase from April's calmer 3.4 m/s (8 mph) brings a refreshing breath of air to spring, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities. As the city sheds its chilly winter winds—averaging around 4.1 m/s in January and peaking at 4.6 m/s in February—May’s breezes mark a transition towards more tranquil summer conditions. Interestingly, the wind speeds during this month are relatively consistent with March’s earlier gusts of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), hinting at a springtime vitality. The wind dynamics play a crucial role in enhancing London's vibrant atmosphere, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blossoming parks and riversides.

Average May Wind Speed in City of London

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in City of London, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.14.64.43.44.2 m/s3.03.33.83.24.33.74.3
Data source: City of London May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in City of London Compares to Other Months

The weather in City of London 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 City of London and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather in May and January, distinct differences emerge. May boasts a much milder temperature range, with minimums of 1°C and maximums reaching up to 25°C, resulting in an average of 13°C. In contrast, January presents a cooler climate, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -5°C and maxing out at just 14°C, leading to an average of 5°C. While May experiences slightly more precipitation at 63 mm over 10 days, January is not far behind with 54 mm over 9 days, albeit with higher humidity levels of 91% compared to May's 82%. For more specific information, you can explore the City of London weather in January.

May and February present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures can soar from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a comfortable average of 13°C (55°F), with maximum highs reaching 25°C (78°F), making it a much warmer month overall. February, on the other hand, is significantly chillier, with temperatures ranging from a low of -7°C (21°F) to a more modest average of 6°C (43°F), and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Additionally, while May sees about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days, February has slightly less precipitation at 52 mm (2.0 in) spread across 11 days. Humidity levels also differ, with May at 82% compared to February's higher 89%. For a detailed look at February's weather, check out City of London weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, it’s clear that May offers a more temperate climate. With minimum temperatures of 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching 25°C (78°F), the average temperature of 13°C (55°F) indicates a significant warming compared to March, which has a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). Additionally, while March sees precipitation of 52 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days, May experiences slightly higher precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in) but with fewer rainy days. The humidity levels are fairly similar, with May at 82% and March slightly higher at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check the City of London weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. May experiences a broader temperature range, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), leading to an average of 13°C (55°F). In contrast, April has cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 10°C (49°F), although it can reach up to 26°C (80°F) on warmer days. Precipitation is higher in May, totaling 63 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 10 days, compared to April's 32 mm (1.3 in) over 7 days. Both months have high humidity levels, with April at 85% and May slightly lower at 82%. For more detailed information, you can refer to City of London weather in April.

May and June present a noticeable shift in weather, with June generally warmer and more humid. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F), while June sees an increase in the minimum temperature to 7°C (45°F) and a maximum rise to 32°C (89°F), with an average of 17°C (62°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation, 77 mm (3.0 in) over 8 days compared to May's 63 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days, the humidity levels remain relatively similar, at 82% for May and 81% for June. For more detailed information, you can visit City of London weather in June.

In comparison to May, July experiences noticeably warmer temperatures, with minimums around 9°C (49°F) compared to May's chilly 1°C (34°F). The average temperature in July reaches 18°C (65°F), significantly higher than May's 13°C (55°F), while maximum temperatures can soar to a sweltering 36°C (97°F), far exceeding May’s peak of 25°C (78°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels, with July recording 64 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 11 days, just slightly more than May's 63 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels are also lower in July at 76%, compared to May's higher humidity of 82%. For more detailed weather insights, you can visit City of London weather in July.

May and August showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). This month experiences about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days and boasts a high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, August warms up significantly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a sweltering maximum of 34°C (94°F) and averaging at 18°C (64°F). While August sees slightly higher precipitation at 72 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, the humidity is comparatively lower at 73%. For more detailed information about the weather in August, you can visit City of London weather in August.

May and September both offer mild temperatures, but September tends to be slightly warmer overall. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). In contrast, September has a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 15°C (60°F). Precipitation is more frequent in May, with 63 mm (2.5 in) falling over 10 days, compared to September's 45 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with May at 82% and September slightly lower at 80%. For more detailed insights, check out City of London weather in September.

May and October present distinct weather patterns, though they share some similarities in temperature. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). This month experiences about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, October sees a slight cooling, with temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 23°C (73°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Rainfall increases to 81 mm (3.2 in) over about 12 days, along with higher humidity at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check the City of London weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather patterns as the seasons transition. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm average of 13°C (55°F), reaching a peak of 25°C (78°F). The month experiences an average rainfall of 63 mm (2.5 in) over about 10 days, coupled with relatively high humidity at 82%. In stark contrast, November features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at 17°C (62°F). The precipitation decreases to 48 mm (1.9 in) over the same number of days, but humidity rises to 92%, creating a damp atmosphere typical of late autumn. For more information, you can visit City of London weather in November.

In May, the weather tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), and an overall average of 13°C (55°F). This month experiences about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, along with a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, December brings chillier conditions, with temperatures dipping down to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and rising to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging around 6°C (44°F). The precipitation also increases to 84 mm (3.3 in), spread across 14 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 92%. For more detailed insights into December weather, you can check out City of London weather in December.

Compare City of London's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in City of London

As May unfolds in the City of London, it brings a refreshing shift from the chill of prior months. With average temperatures rising to 13°C and a peak of 25°C, the month showcases a delightful warmth, inviting outdoor activities and vibrant city life. However, this warmth is accompanied by increased humidity at 82% and 63 mm of rain over approximately 10 days, reminding us that spring is still a transitional season. Compared to the winter's cold grip, May offers a welcome balance of sun and showers, making it an ideal time to explore the city's blooming parks and lively markets. For more details on the weather patterns throughout the year, visit City of London Climate.