May Weather in Exeter, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In Exeter, United Kingdom, May typically showcases a delightful blend of spring warmth and occasional rain. With a maximum temperature reaching 24°C (75°F), the month offers a pleasant escape from the lingering chill, while the average settles around 12°C (54°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, manifesting in 12 rainy days that contribute to a total precipitation of 74 mm (2.9 in). The high humidity level of 80% can add a touch of mugginess, reminding residents and visitors alike that May in Exeter is a time of bloom but also an opportunity to embrace the fleeting English sunshine.

May Temperature in Exeter

In Exeter, United Kingdom, May marks a delightful transition into warmer weather. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F), locals and visitors alike experience a significant uptick in warmth compared to the chill of earlier months. The average temperature settles at a comfortable 12°C (54°F), reflecting a definitive shift from the cooler spring. This gradual warming trend hints at the onset of summer, making May an ideal time to enjoy the blossoming outdoor scenes, where vibrant flowers and greenery come to life under the sun. As Exeter bids farewell to its frosty January beginnings, May's inviting climate encourages outdoor adventures and gatherings, inviting all to savor the beauty of the season.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Exeter, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424345485359636158534745
Data source: Temperature data for Exeter generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Exeter

In May, Exeter experiences a moderate shift in precipitation, with an average of 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 12 rainy days. This amount tends to surpass both the preceding month's 52 mm (2.0 in) and the following month’s 80 mm (3.2 in), highlighting May as a transitional period toward the wetter summer months. While it's not the peak of the year, the consistent rainfall contributes to the vibrant greenery that the region is known for, setting the tone for the lush landscapes that follow. As April's showers taper off, May retains a sense of freshness before the intensified rains of June, offering a refreshing balance to the dynamic weather patterns typical of Exeter.

May Precipitation Trends in Exeter

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Exeter, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec506981527480667353996796
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Exeter

In Exeter, United Kingdom, May marks a significant shift in humidity, averaging 80%, which reflects the arrival of warmer spring air. This decrease from the wetter winter months, where humidity hovers around 88%, signifies a gradual transition to more comfortable conditions. Following April’s 84%, May's figures suggest the start of a trend toward drier weather, as summer approaches. Interestingly, the humidity remains consistent into June at 80%, hinting at a stable climate before the drier months of July and August. This subtle drop not only enhances the appeal of outdoor activities but also sets the tone for the increasingly pleasant and lively atmosphere of late spring in this charming region.

May Average Humidity in Exeter

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Exeter, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%88%86%84%80%80%70%73%79%89%90%89%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Exeter

As May unfolds in Exeter, the UV Index climbs to a significant 7, indicating a high exposure category. This marks a notable increase from April's Index of 6, and it signals that sun safety becomes increasingly essential. With a burn time of just 25 minutes, residents and visitors should take precautions to protect their skin during this peak period of sunlight. As the days grow longer and warmer, May serves as a reminder of the shifting UV levels, paving the way for the even more intense rays of June. For more detailed information on UV trends and safety measures, check out the Exeter UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Exeter for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Exeter 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec224679876421
Data source: Exeter 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 Exeter

As spring transitions into summer, May brings a delightful surge in sunshine to Exeter, with an impressive 405 hours of bright skies illuminating the town. This increase is a continuation of the upward trend observed since the winter months, when sunshine hours languished at a mere 97 hours in January. By April, residents began to bask in 343 hours of sunlight, setting the stage for May's robust offering. This month not only stands out as the sunniest of the year so far, but it also marks the peak before the gradual decline into the more temperate, yet still bright, summer months. With each passing day, the vibrant energy of May encourages outdoor gatherings, festivities, and a renewed appreciation for the natural beauty of Exeter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Exeter: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Exeter 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec97h153h219h343h405h392h418h381h317h250h142h115h
Data source: Exeter May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Exeter During May

As spring unfolds in Exeter, May presents a unique transitional phase in terms of weather, showcasing a significant shift from the preceding months. After enjoying a 51% chance of sunny days in April, the likelihood dips to 32% in May, creating a curious contrast as the climate begins to warm up. This fluctuation highlights a common trend where the May weather may not always deliver the prolonged sunshine one might expect, echoing a similar pattern seen again in July with its 37% chance. Overall, while May offers hope for sunny interludes, it's essential for residents and visitors to remain prepared for variability, as the chance of ample sunshine can often be misleading.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Exeter

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Exeter 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 Exeter experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec19%22%32%51%32%25%37%27%29%22%30%20%
Data source: Exeter May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Exeter in May

In Exeter, United Kingdom, May heralds the peak of spring with an impressive 15 hours of daylight, a delightful increase from the 13 hours experienced in April. This gradual ascent in daylight hours, which began at just 8 hours in January, highlights the transition from the dark winter months to the vibrant spring and summer. As the days grow longer, they're not only a surge of natural light but also a reminder of the warmth and life returning to the landscape. Following May, daylight continues to be generous, reaching its zenith in June with 16 hours, before gradually tapering off as autumn approaches. This rhythm of light captures the essence of Exeter's seasonal dance, offering a beautiful backdrop for both outdoor activities and moments of reflection.

Average Daylight Hours in Exeter for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Exeter throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 30m10h 1m11h 55m13h 51m15h 32m16h 24m15h 56m14h 26m12h 34m10h 38m8h 55m8h
Data source: Exeter daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Exeter

In May, Exeter experiences a delightful resurgence in wind, with an average speed of 4.7 m/s (10 mph), matching January's breezy conditions. This stability in wind speed signifies a transition from the calmer days of April, where the average dipped to 3.5 m/s (8 mph). As spring unfolds, May’s winds provide a refreshing backdrop, encouraging residents to enjoy the outdoors before the summer months, when wind speeds decrease again, notably hitting a low of 3.2 m/s (7 mph) in June. The consistency of May’s gusts highlights its role as a bridge between the chilly winter and the warmer summer, offering just the right mix of freshness to invigorate the landscape of Exeter.

Average May Wind Speed in Exeter

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Exeter, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.75.54.53.54.7 m/s3.23.63.93.44.43.84.9
Data source: Exeter May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Exeter Compares to Other Months

The weather in Exeter 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 Exeter and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January present quite contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences around 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 80%. In stark contrast, January's temperatures are cooler, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), averaging at 6°C (42°F). This winter month sees less precipitation at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days, but a higher humidity level of 88%. For a detailed look at January weather, check out Exeter weather in January.

May generally experiences milder and more pleasant weather compared to February. With temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a warm maximum of 24°C (75°F), May averages around 12°C (54°F). In contrast, February sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 16°C (60°F), resulting in an average temperature of just 6°C (44°F). Although both months experience approximately 12 days of precipitation, May has slightly higher total rainfall at 74 mm (2.9 in) compared to February's 69 mm (2.7 in). Additionally, May has lower humidity levels at 80%, whereas February is more humid at 88%. For more information about February's climate, you can check Exeter weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, May generally experiences milder temperatures, with averages around 12°C (54°F) and highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F), compared to March's cooler average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). While both months see substantial humidity, March holds a slightly higher level at 86%, while May’s humidity averages around 80%. Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with March receiving slightly more rain at 81 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days compared to May's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days. For a closer look at March weather specifics, visit Exeter weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, it is evident that May experiences a rise in temperatures, with averages reaching 12°C (54°F) compared to April’s average of 9°C (49°F). Additionally, May brings slightly warmer maximum temperatures of up to 24°C (75°F), while April peaks at 22°C (71°F). However, precipitation is more abundant in May, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, compared to April’s 52 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. The humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with May at 80% and April slightly higher at 84%. For more details, you can check Exeter weather in April.

May and June feature similar humidity levels, both around 80%, but June showcases a noticeable warming trend. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 1°C (33°F) to an average of 12°C (54°F) and a peak of 24°C (75°F). By June, the minimum rises to 6°C (43°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (60°F) and a maximum reaching 28°C (83°F). Precipitation also sees a slight increase in June, totaling 80 mm (3.2 in) over 12 days, compared to May's 74 mm (2.9 in) across the same number of days. For more detailed information, check Exeter weather in June.

In May, temperatures in Exeter range from a chilly 1°C (33°F) to a pleasant 24°C (75°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%. Conversely, July brings warmer weather with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 66 mm (2.6 in) over the same number of rainy days, but humidity also drops to 70%. For more details on July weather, you can visit Exeter weather in July.

In May, the weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C (33°F) at night to a pleasant high of 24°C (75°F) during the day, averaging around 12°C (54°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 80% and sees about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, August offers more warmth and milder nights, with temperatures between 8°C (47°F) and 28°C (83°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). While the total precipitation is similar at 73 mm (2.9 in), it falls over just 11 days, and humidity is lower at 73%. For more insights on the climate during this month, visit Exeter weather in August.

May and September offer distinct yet mild weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). The month sees about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation across 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, September brings slightly warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Rainfall is less frequent in September, totaling 53 mm (2.1 in) over just 9 days, with a comparable humidity of 79%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Exeter weather in September.

May and October present a notable contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences relatively moderate rainfall, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over about 12 days, and maintains a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, October sees slightly chillier lows with temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F), while the average temperature remains the same at 12°C (53°F). The maximum in October is lower, peaking at 20°C (69°F), and the month is wetter, with precipitation reaching 99 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days and a higher humidity of 89%. For more details on the weather in October, please visit Exeter weather in October.

In May, the weather typically features milder temperatures, with averages around 12°C (54°F) and highs peaking at 24°C (75°F). The humidity is relatively comfortable at 80%, and while there's some rainfall, with about 74 mm (2.9 in) occurring over 12 days, the gentle warmth invites outdoor activities. In contrast, November sees a notable drop in temperatures, averaging only 8°C (47°F) and reaching a maximum of 16°C (60°F). The higher humidity at 90% and slightly lower precipitation total of 67 mm (2.6 in) over the same number of days can make the air feel chillier. For those interested in learning more about November weather specifics, check out Exeter weather in November.

May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F), with highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F). The month typically experiences about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 80%. In contrast, December sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month is wetter, receiving 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, and humidity rises to 89%. For more details on the specific weather conditions during December, you can visit Exeter weather in December.

Compare Exeter's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Exeter

As May unfolds in Exeter, the weather begins to shift towards the warmth of summer, showcasing a notable contrast to the cooler months. With daytime highs reaching a pleasant 24°C (75°F), this month offers the perfect opportunity for outdoor activities, though evenings can still feel crisp. Rainfall, though less frequent than in earlier months, still makes an appearance, with a notable 73 mm spread over 12 days, contributing to the region's lush greenery. The humidity lingers around 80%, creating a mild atmosphere that's ideal for enjoying the blooming landscapes. For an in-depth view of Exeter's year-round climate trends, explore our comprehensive guide on Exeter Climate.