Last updated: March 17, 2025
May in Leeds, United Kingdom brings a delightful mix of blooming spring and early summer charm. With maximum temperatures reaching 25°C (78°F), the city enjoys comfortable days, contrasted by cooler nights averaging around 12°C (53°F). Although occasional showers keep the landscape lush—totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days—the high humidity at 80% creates a refreshing atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities. Embrace the vibrant sights and sounds of Leeds as nature flourishes during this transitional month!
In May, Leeds, United Kingdom, experiences a noticeable warming trend as spring progresses into summer. With minimum temperatures rising to 0°C (32°F) and maximums peaking at 25°C (78°F), the month showcases the city’s stunning transition toward milder weather. The average temperature settles at a comfortable 12°C (53°F), inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the blooming landscape and outdoor activities. This shift from April's chilly nights and moderate highs emphasizes Leeds' vibrant spring atmosphere, making May an ideal time to explore the city’s parks and cultural venues under increasingly pleasant skies.
In May, Leeds experiences a moderate precipitation level of 61 mm (2.4 in) spread over 12 days, marking a slight increase from April's lower total. This month bridges the transition to summer, showcasing a pattern where rainfall begins to intensify as spring approaches its end. While May's precipitation is less than the peak seen in the following months, it plays a crucial role in replenishing the environment before the drier summer period arrives. The overall trend indicates a gradual rise in rainfall from January through May, punctuated by the notably drier April, making May a vital month for growth in the region's lush landscape.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Leeds, United Kingdom, experiences a notable dip in humidity, averaging around 80%. This marks a significant decrease from the wetter months of winter and early spring, where humidity levels hovered between 86% and 90%. Following a steady decline from January’s peak of 90%, the trend continues through April’s 84%, giving residents a brief reprieve before the humidity rises again in June. This shift not only brings a more comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities but also hints at the warming climate of summer months ahead.
As May arrives in Leeds, the sun starts to shine more brightly, reflected in the UV Index climbing to 7, marking it as a time when exposure becomes high and burn time decreases to just 25 minutes. This significant rise from the previous months indicates a shift from moderate levels experienced in April, emphasizing the need for increased sun protection as warmer days unfold. With the changing season, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to be aware of the intensified UV rays, setting the stage for a vibrant start to summer. As you enjoy outdoor activities, make sure to stay informed and protect your skin. For details on daily UV levels, check out Leeds UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May is truly a standout month for sunshine in Leeds, boasting an impressive 383 hours of sunlight that sets the stage for the vibrant summer ahead. This surge represents a remarkable increase from the earlier months, particularly against January's modest 77 hours and a gradual climb through the spring season with 310 hours in April. As the city basks in the warmth of May, it transitions seamlessly into the sunnier months, peaking in July with 387 hours. This trend highlights the shift from the chilly winter months to a lively, sun-soaked Leeds, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blossoming greenery and outdoor festivities that thrive in this golden season.
May in Leeds, United Kingdom, presents a 30% chance of sunshine, a notable improvement from the preceding months. After a 47% likelihood in April, the sun's presence experiences a slight dip as summer approaches, with June bringing a 26% chance. This trend suggests that while early spring may offer a few more rays, May tends to balance between the lingering spring showers and the promise of sunnier days ahead. As residents look onward to warmer months, the changing dynamics of the weather highlight Leeds' unpredictable charm, making each sunny moment in May all the more precious.
As spring transitions into the vibrant month of May in Leeds, the daylight hours reach a delightful peak of 15 hours, offering a substantial increase from the 14 hours experienced in April. This gradual elongation of daylight from the start of the year, where January only afforded 8 hours, highlights the city's shift toward the sunnier, longer days of summer. Following May, June and July bask in an impressive 16 hours of daylight, marking the zenith of the year; however, as autumn approaches, daylight begins to wane, illustrating the cyclical nature of the seasons. This progressive pattern not only enhances outdoor activities and social engagement but also brings a refreshing energy to the city during these sun-drenched months.
In May, the wind in Leeds, United Kingdom, tends to be a gentle breeze, with an average speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph). This marks a slight uptick from April's calmer days, which saw winds at only 3.2 m/s (7 mph). As spring unfolds, the gradually increasing winds hint at the seasonal transitions, typically peaking in the earlier months of the year before becoming a touch softer in the height of summer. Interestingly, May's wind speeds mirror those of both August and September, suggesting a consistency in breezy conditions during the late spring and early autumn. Overall, while May may not boast the strongest winds of the year, it offers a refreshing reminder of nature's gentle touch as it leads into the warmth of summer.
The weather in Leeds 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 Leeds and find detailed weather information for every month.
In May, the weather tends to be significantly warmer and more temperate, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a comfortable 25°C (78°F) during the day. With an average precipitation of 61 mm (2.4 in) over about 12 days, May experiences a relatively humid climate at 80%. In contrast, January presents a much cooler and often colder landscape, featuring temperatures that range between -4°C (25°F) at night and 14°C (58°F) at the highest point of the day. Although it has slightly less precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in), January is characterized by a higher humidity level of 90% over approximately 10 days. For further details on January weather, you can check Leeds weather in January.
In comparing the weather between February and May, it's clear that May experiences milder temperatures, with an average of 12°C (53°F) compared to February's chillier average of 5°C (42°F). May also boasts higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 25°C (78°F) while February peaks at a cooler 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in May, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days, whereas February sees 79 mm (3.1 in) across 14 days. Additionally, May's humidity is somewhat lower at 80%, compared to February’s higher humidity of 88%. For more detailed insights on February weather, check out Leeds weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, we see a noticeable shift in temperatures and overall conditions. May features a more pleasant climate with average temperatures rising to 12°C (53°F) and reaching a maximum of 25°C (78°F), whereas March has a cooler average of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in May at 61 mm (2.4 in), compared to March's 76 mm (3.0 in), although May sees rain on about 12 days compared to 14 in March. Additionally, humidity in May is 80%, which is slightly less than March’s 86%, making May feel a bit more comfortable. For a detailed look at the weather specifics in March, you can check out Leeds weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, it's evident that May experiences a warmer climate overall, with average temperatures rising from 8°C (47°F) in April to 12°C (53°F). While April sees a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F), May's minimum is a milder 0°C (32°F). Moreover, the maximum temperature in both months remains similar, peaking at 24°C (75°F) in April and slightly higher at 25°C (78°F) in May. Precipitation levels also increase in May, with 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain over 12 days, compared to April's 40 mm (1.6 in) over 8 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, slightly decreasing from 84% in April to 80% in May. For more detailed insights, you can check Leeds weather in April.
In comparing the weather between May and June, we notice a clear trend of warming temperatures and increased precipitation. May experiences a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), while June sees temperatures rise, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, June has slightly higher precipitation, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over 13 days, compared to May's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains relatively stable, hovering around 80% in May and 81% in June, making both months feel somewhat damp. For a closer look at the specifics, you can check out Leeds weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we observe some notable differences. May typically features a cooler temperature range, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), while July boasts warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F) and maximums soaring to 34°C (93°F). Additionally, July experiences slightly higher precipitation at 80 mm (3.1 in) compared to May's 61 mm (2.4 in), although both months share a similar number of rainy days, each averaging around 12 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in July at 76%, compared to May's 80%. For more specific details about July weather in Leeds, you can visit Leeds weather in July.
May and August present distinct weather profiles. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) to a pleasant 25°C (78°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). The month sees around 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 12 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August is warmer, featuring a minimum temperature of 8°C (46°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). While it experiences slightly more precipitation at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 13 days, humidity is a touch lower at 77%. For more details on August weather, check this link: Leeds weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, one can observe some notable differences. May typically sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). The month brings about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days and maintains an average humidity of 80%. Conversely, September experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), an average of 14°C (57°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, September has a marginally higher precipitation total of 67 mm (2.7 in) across the same number of days (12), along with increased humidity levels at 85%. For more insights into September's specific weather patterns, you can check Leeds weather in September.
In May, temperatures in the region typically range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). The month sees around 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, accompanied by a relative humidity of 80%. In contrast, October experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation increases to 90 mm (3.6 in) over about 14 days, along with a higher humidity level of 90%. For more specific details about October weather, check out Leeds weather in October.
May and November offer distinctly different weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a refreshing minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). The month sees around 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain over approximately 12 days, accompanied by a relatively comfortable humidity level of 80%. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging just 7°C (46°F). The precipitation slightly increases to 65 mm (2.5 in) over about 13 days, and the humidity rises to 92%, contributing to a damp and chilly atmosphere. For a detailed look at November weather specifically, visit Leeds weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). This month experiences approximately 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, December features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F), an average of 5°C (42°F), and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month is wetter, receiving around 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation across 15 days, and the humidity level climbs to 90%. For more detailed information, you can check the climate specifics here: Leeds weather in December.
As spring unfolds, May in Leeds brings a delightful transition with significantly warmer temperatures, making it stand out from the cooler months preceding it. The average temperature rises to a comfortable 12°C (53°F), peaking at a warmer 25°C (78°F), inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors. However, this month also has its share of rainy days, with approximately 12 days experiencing precipitation that adds up to 61 mm (2.4 in). Despite the increased warmth, humidity remains high at 80%, reminding us that the breezy chill of earlier months is still a faint memory. For a more comprehensive understanding of the climate throughout the year, check out Leeds Climate.