May Weather in Manchester, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In Manchester, United Kingdom, May brings a diverse range of temperatures, with a maximum of 26°C (80°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), while nighttime can dip to a chilly -2°C (29°F). This transition month features 12 days of precipitation, accumulating to 65 mm (2.5 in) of rain, contributing to the city's famously lush surroundings. The humidity rests around 80%, creating a refreshing atmosphere that highlights the beauty of spring in Manchester.

May Temperature in Manchester

In May, Manchester begins to embrace the warmth of spring, showcasing a delightful shift in temperatures that heralds the arrival of summer. The minimum temperature hovers around -2°C (29°F), while the average climbs to a comfortable 11°C (53°F), and the city can occasionally bask in a moderately warm max of 26°C (80°F). This upward trend from the cooler months sets the stage for outdoor activities, and with the sun shining more frequently, residents and visitors alike are drawn to parks and al fresco dining. Comparing May to its preceding months, you'll notice that the temperature range expands significantly, indicating that Manchester is shaking off the chill and welcoming more inviting weather, perfect for enjoying all that the vibrant city has to offer.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Manchester, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404143475359616056514541
Data source: Temperature data for Manchester 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 Manchester

In May, Manchester experiences a moderate shift in precipitation, with an average of 65 mm (2.5 in) of rainfall over 12 days. This amount marks a slight increase from the drier month of April, which contributed only 47 mm (1.9 in) across 9 days. As spring transitions towards summer, May's precipitation reflects a balance between sunny spells and rain, aligning with the typical weather patterns of the region. Notably, this amount is less than the forthcoming June and July, which often witness more significant rainfall, suggesting that while May can still be rainy, it serves as a gentle prelude to the wetter months ahead.

May Precipitation Trends in Manchester

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Manchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec811061064765991011139612293112
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Manchester

As spring transitions into summer, May in Manchester, United Kingdom, welcomes a noticeable dip in humidity, settling at a comfortable 80%. This marks a shift from the wetter months of spring, where January's 90% and February's 88% levels keep the air feeling quite moist. The gradual decline from 90% in January to 80% in May reflects a trend towards less sticky conditions, making this a more enjoyable time for outdoor activities. While humidity does rise slightly again in June, the overall pattern shows that Manchester experiences its driest air of the year during this month, setting the stage for a refreshing summer ahead.

May Average Humidity in Manchester

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Manchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%88%86%84%80%81%76%77%85%90%92%90%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Manchester

As we step into May, Manchester experiences a notable shift in its UV Index, skyrocketing to 7, which falls into the high exposure category. This increase signifies a significant change from the previous months, where the UV Index hovered between 1 and 5. With a reduced burn time of just 25 minutes, it's crucial for residents and visitors to be more mindful of sun safety as outdoor activities become more enticing. Following May, the UV Index reaches its peak in June and July, illustrating a clear upward trend in UV intensity as summer approaches. Whether you're enjoying the park or a day at the beach, don't forget the sunscreen! For more detailed UV data and trends, check out Manchester UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Manchester for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Manchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875421
Data source: Manchester 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 Manchester

As May graces Manchester, the city basks in an impressive 400 hours of sunshine, marking it as a delightful peak in the spring months. This surge follows a steady increase from 211 hours in March and 322 hours in April, spotlighting May as the month when daylight truly flourishes. Following the vibrant May, July remains competitive with 407 hours, while June dips slightly to 367 hours. However, the contrast with the preceding months is stark; by November, the sun shines only 113 hours, serving as a gentle reminder of the seasonal shift. Overall, May represents a radiant turning point, inviting residents and visitors alike to soak in the pleasant weather before the chill of winter emerges.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Manchester: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Manchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec81h147h211h322h400h367h407h367h290h226h113h98h
Data source: Manchester May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Manchester During May

As spring unfolds in Manchester, the likelihood of sunny weather begins to rise, peaking in April with a 50% chance of sunshine. By May, this probability settles at 31%, only slightly above the later months of spring and early summer. While May offers a promising glimpse of brighter days compared to the dreary early months—like January's mere 16% and February's 23%—it's still below the typically sunnier periods of June and July, which showcase 25% and 33% chances, respectively. This trend hints that while May isn't the sunniest month, it’s a delightful step towards the warmer, more radiant summer days that await.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Manchester

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Manchester 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 Manchester experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16%23%24%50%31%25%33%24%23%19%25%14%
Data source: Manchester May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Manchester in May

As the calendar flips to May, daylight in Manchester begins to bloom, offering an inviting 15 hours of sunlight. This marks a notable increase from the 14 hours seen in April, as spring fully unfurls its charm. Following a gradual ascent from 8 hours in January, the city's daylight continues to grow, peaking at an impressive 16 hours during June and July. After the summer solstice, daylight begins its gentle decline, tapering down to 14 hours in August, before falling into the 12 hours typical of September. This cyclical shift not only brightens the days but also underscores the region's seasonal transformations, providing a vibrant backdrop for outdoor activities and leisure throughout the month of May.

Average Daylight Hours in Manchester for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Manchester throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 5m9h 48m11h 54m14h 3m15h 56m16h 56m16h 24m14h 42m12h 37m10h 29m8h 34m7h 31m
Data source: Manchester daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Manchester

May in Manchester greets residents with a gentle average wind speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph), a slight uptick from the calmer breezes of April. As spring transitions into summer, the wind patterns reflect a gradual increase in activity, though May remains one of the milder months compared to the gustier spring and autumn months. Following the winds of March and April, which saw speeds of 4.4 m/s (10 mph) and 3.0 m/s (7 mph) respectively, May's breezes are soft yet invigorating, perfect for outdoor activities. Looking ahead, the transition into the summer months typically brings lighter winds, with July hitting a low of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), suggesting that May offers the last whispers of spring's significant breezes before the summer calm settles in.

Average May Wind Speed in Manchester

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Manchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.05.04.43.03.7 m/s3.12.63.43.34.74.04.2
Data source: Manchester May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Manchester Compares to Other Months

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

May and January offer contrasting weather conditions, with May showcasing a much milder climate. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a warm maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F), while January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), averaging just 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in May at 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days compared to January's 81 mm (3.2 in) across 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in January at 90% compared to May's 80%, creating a more crisp and potentially damp winter feel. For more details, check Manchester weather in January.

May generally offers milder temperatures compared to February, with averages around 11°C (53°F) and highs reaching 26°C (80°F). In contrast, February tends to be colder, with an average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of only 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is also notable in both months; however, February sees more rainfall at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 16 days, while May has 65 mm (2.5 in) spread across 12 days. The humidity remains high in both months, with February slightly higher at 88% compared to May's 80%. For a more detailed comparison, you can check Manchester weather in February.

In March, temperatures are cooler with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), peaking at 19°C (67°F). This month also experiences more precipitation, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) over 16 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 86%. In contrast, May sees a wider temperature range, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), reaching up to 26°C (80°F). While precipitation decreases to 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days in May, humidity remains relatively high at 80%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Manchester weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a noticeable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures rising from 8°C (47°F) in April to 11°C (53°F), and highs can even reach up to 26°C (80°F). While April exhibits a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F), May's low is slightly milder at -2°C (29°F). Precipitation in May is also higher, with 65 mm (2.5 in) of rain spread across 12 days compared to April's 47 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days. However, humidity levels remain relatively similar, with May at 80% and April slightly higher at 84%. For a more detailed look at April's climate, you can visit Manchester weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we see a noticeable increase in temperature. May features a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at 26°C (80°F). Conversely, June starts warmer with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), reaching a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation also rises in June, with 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain falling over 15 days, compared to May's 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains relatively steady, with May at 80% and June slightly higher at 81%. For more detailed information, check out Manchester weather in June.

In comparison, the weather in May features a wider temperature range, with lows dipping to -2°C (29°F) and highs reaching a pleasant 26°C (80°F), averaging around 11°C (53°F). May typically experiences around 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days and boasts a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July sees warmer temperatures, with minimums of 7°C (44°F) and maximums hitting 32°C (91°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). However, July also brings increased rainfall, totaling approximately 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, with slightly lower humidity at 76%. For those interested in more details, check out Manchester weather in July.

May and August present contrasting weather conditions in Manchester. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (53°F), with maximums reaching 26°C (80°F). The month experiences about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 80%. In contrast, August sees warmer temperatures, with minimums at 5°C (42°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and highs peaking at 31°C (88°F). It also experiences higher precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over 17 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 77%. For a more detailed overview, check out Manchester weather in August.

May and September in Manchester exhibit relatively mild temperatures, but each month has its unique characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a warm maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F). The month sees about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, and the humidity averages around 80%. In contrast, September experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). However, it is also wetter, with precipitation totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over around 15 days, alongside higher humidity at 85%. For a deeper dive into the climate characteristics of this month, you can visit Manchester weather in September.

In May, the weather is characterized by a mild average temperature of 11°C (53°F), with maximum highs reaching 26°C (80°F), while the minimum temperatures can drop to -2°C (29°F). Precipitation is relatively moderate at 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, October experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 10°C (51°F) and maximums around 22°C (71°F). The month sees increased rainfall, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) over 18 days, and elevated humidity at 90%. For more details on this month's climate, you can check Manchester weather in October.

In comparing May and November weather, May typically enjoys a milder climate with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), making it a preferable month for outdoor activities. In contrast, November presents cooler temperatures, with an average ranging from -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), which can deter some from venturing outside. Additionally, May experiences about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over roughly 12 days, while November is wetter, with 93 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall distributed over 17 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 92%. For more detailed information about November weather, you can check Manchester weather in November.

May and December present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a low of -2°C to a pleasant average of 11°C, peaking at 26°C, with lower humidity at 80% and moderate precipitation of 65 mm over about 12 days. In contrast, December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C and an average of just 5°C, reaching a maximum of 13°C. This month also sees increased humidity at 90%, with higher rainfall totaling 112 mm over 17 days. For more detailed information, check out Manchester weather in December.

Compare Manchester's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Manchester

As May unfolds in Manchester, the weather begins to shed the chill of winter, offering a refreshing shift compared to earlier months. While temperatures can still dip unexpectedly, averaging around 11°C and peaking at a pleasant 26°C, the city experiences a notable increase in warmth and sunshine. However, be prepared for some rain, with approximately 12 days of precipitation that contribute to the overall 65 mm of rainfall. The high humidity levels of 80% can make the air feel a bit heavier, a stark contrast to the crisp air of previous months. Discover more about what to expect throughout the year by visiting Manchester Climate.