Last updated: March 17, 2025
In May, Portsmouth, United Kingdom experiences a delightful spring atmosphere characterized by average temperatures around 13°C (55°F), with highs reaching a pleasant 22°C (71°F). The month is marked by an occasional drizzle, as precipitation totals amount to 56 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 11 days, leading to a humidity level of 79%. This blend of mild temperatures and varied precipitation creates an invigorating backdrop for outdoor activities, showcasing the charm of Portsmouth during this vibrant transitional period.
As May unfolds in Portsmouth, the arrival of warmer days signals a delightful transition from the chill of early spring. With minimum temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F) and maximums climbing to a pleasant 22°C (71°F), the month showcases an average temperature of 13°C (55°F) that invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blooming landscape. This upward trend from April’s cooler 10°C (50°F) average highlights the much-anticipated warmth, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities. As the city shakes off its winter coat, May serves as a vibrant prelude to the balmy summer months ahead, offering plenty of sunshine and milder weather to explore Portsmouth’s coastal beauty.
In May, Portsmouth experiences a moderate precipitation level of 56 mm (2.2 in), spread across approximately 11 days. This marks a noticeable increase from the preceding month of April, which enjoyed significantly lighter rains of only 32 mm (1.3 in) over just 7 days. As spring transitions into early summer, May's rainfall can be somewhat unpredictable, contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes the landscape. Compared to the wetter months that follow, such as June and August, May serves as a bridge, offering ample moisture while still allowing for enjoyable days of clear skies, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities before the summer showers intensify.
As spring unfolds, May in Portsmouth, United Kingdom, ushers in a noticeable drop in humidity, settling at 79%. This marks a significant decrease compared to the higher levels of 85% in April. The transition into late spring showcases a general trend of decreasing humidity, as it paves the way for the more comfortable summer months ahead. Following May, humidity levels rise again in June to 80%, but they remain markedly lower than the winter months, which peak at an impressive 92% in November and December. This seasonal shift highlights Portsmouth's evolution from damp winter conditions to the milder, more pleasant atmosphere of late spring, inviting residents and visitors alike to relish the outdoor charm before summer's arrival.
As spring transitions to summer in Portsmouth, May brings a notable increase in UV intensity, with the UV Index rising to a high level of 7. This shift signifies a marked change from the cooler months when UV exposure was low, highlighted by January and February's consistent Index of just 2. In May, the burn time decreases to only 25 minutes, urging residents and visitors alike to take precautions against sun exposure. This trend continues into June and July, with Index values peaking at 8 during the summer months, where burn times further shorten to 15 minutes. It's essential to stay informed, especially as the risk of skin damage increases significantly. For more details on fluctuating UV levels in Portsmouth, visit Portsmouth UV Index.
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May shines brightly in Portsmouth, unveiling 410 hours of glorious sunshine that sets the tone for the summer ahead. This month stands out as a pivotal turning point, where daylight hours jump dramatically from April's 344 hours. As spring blossoms into its full glory, May not only introduces warmer temperatures but also lures residents and visitors outdoors to bask in longer, sunnier days. Following the exuberance of May, June and July continue to showcase impressive sunlight totals, peaking at 423 hours in July before gradually tapering off. This enchanting progression hints at the vibrant summers typical of the UK’s southern coast, making May a delightful prelude to the sun-soaked months that follow.
As spring gracefully unfolds into May, Portsmouth experiences a noticeable shift in sunny weather, with a chance of sunshine sitting at 41%. This improvement follows the brightening trend seen in April, where the likelihood of sunlight reaches an encouraging 58%, suggesting that the warmth of early summer is beckoning. However, compared to the sunniest month of March at 38%, May's chances reveal a dip, indicating a potential return to more variable weather patterns. This fluctuation emphasizes the unpredictability of the British climate, yet May remains a promising time for enjoying the outdoors amidst the blossoming scenery.
As May unfolds in Portsmouth, the increase in daylight duration becomes particularly noticeable, with the days stretching out to an inviting 15 hours of light. This marks a significant leap from April's 13 hours, highlighting the arrival of spring in full swing. The trend continues upward as the city transitions into summer, peaking in June with a remarkable 16 hours of daylight. Following the vibrant summer months, daylight begins its gradual retreat, reminding residents of the cyclical nature of the seasons. By autumn, daylight decreases to 12 hours in September, then back to 10 hours in October, before settling at 8 hours in the colder months. The steady ebb and flow of daylight throughout the year paints a dynamic picture of life in Portsmouth, emphasizing the sun's pivotal role in shaping the mood and activities of the community.
In May, Portsmouth experiences a gentle yet invigorating breeze with an average wind speed of 6.1 m/s (14 mph). This slight uptick from the calmer April days reflects the transition into late spring when the maritime climate begins to warm. Comparatively, January and October also mark higher winds of 6.4 m/s (14 mph), suggesting a pattern where early and late spring are lively, while summer months tend to calm down, with June and July seeing the lowest speeds, down to 4.0 m/s (9 mph). As the season progresses into the summer, the winds remain moderate, creating a perfect backdrop for serene coastal walks or outdoor activities. The consistent wind patterns not only contribute to the charm of Portsmouth but also herald the arrival of refreshing summer days, making May a delightful time to explore the seaside.
The weather in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth and find detailed weather information for every month.
May generally offers milder and more pleasant weather compared to January. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), May has a comfortable average temperature of 13°C (55°F). In contrast, January is colder, with temperatures fluctuating between 0°C (32°F) and 13°C (56°F) and an average of just 7°C (44°F).
Though both months experience precipitation on approximately 11 days, May receives less rainfall at 56 mm (2.2 in) compared to January's 68 mm (2.7 in). Additionally, January has a higher humidity level of 91%, while May's humidity sits at a relatively lower 79%. For more details on January's weather, you can check out Portsmouth weather in January.
May generally offers milder and more pleasant weather compared to February. With average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), May sees more comfortable conditions, while February's temperatures hover lower, with a range of -3°C (28°F) to 13°C (55°F). Additionally, May experiences less precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, in contrast to February's 75 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are also notably higher in February at 89%, compared to 79% in May. For more detailed information, visit Portsmouth weather in February.
In comparing May and March weather, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a pleasant average of 13°C (55°F), compared to March, which experiences colder conditions with a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Additionally, May experiences less precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, whereas March has slightly higher precipitation levels of 70 mm (2.7 in) spread across 13 days. Humidity is also slightly lower in May at 79% compared to 86% in March, making May a more comfortable month overall. For more information, you can check Portsmouth weather in March.
May generally experiences milder temperatures compared to April, with minimums rising from 1°C (34°F) in April to 5°C (41°F) in May. The average temperature also increases to 13°C (55°F) in May, compared to April's average of 10°C (50°F), and the maximum temperature reaches a pleasant 22°C (71°F) in May, surpassing April’s maximum of 19°C (66°F). In terms of precipitation, May sees an increase to 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, whereas April has a lower total of 32 mm (1.3 in) across 7 days. Humidity is slightly lower in May at 79%, compared to April’s 85%. For more detailed observations, check Portsmouth weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, we see a notable increase in temperatures and a slight uptick in humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, while maintaining a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and reaching up to 25°C (76°F) for an average of 16°C (61°F). Although June sees a slight increase in precipitation to 73 mm (2.9 in), it accumulates over just 9 days, and humidity edges up to 80%. For a more detailed look at June conditions, check out this link: Portsmouth weather in June.
In May, temperatures range from a cool 5°C (41°F) at night to a pleasant 22°C (71°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 79%. In contrast, July offers warmer weather, with minimum temperatures of 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 25°C (78°F), resulting in an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 58 mm (2.3 in) over the same number of rainy days, but humidity is lower at 71%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions in July, check out Portsmouth weather in July.
The weather in May features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), while August enjoys warmer conditions, starting at 11°C (52°F) and averaging 18°C (64°F). In May, precipitation is notable with 56 mm (2.2 in) spread over 11 days, compared to August's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, suggesting that both months experience a fair amount of rain albeit slightly more in August. Additionally, humidity levels remain high in both months, with May at 79% and August slightly lower at 76%. For more specific details about the weather patterns in August, you can check Portsmouth weather in August.
May and September both experience mild temperatures, but there are notable differences in their climate. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). This month sees around 56 mm (2.2 in) of rainfall over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, September offers slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from 8°C (47°F) to 24°C (76°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Rainfall is similar at 57 mm (2.2 in) across about 10 days, but humidity increases to 82%. For those interested in exploring more about September's weather, check out Portsmouth weather in September.
In May, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, and humidity levels average around 79%. In contrast, October experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while maintaining the same average of 13°C (56°F). However, October is notably wetter, accumulating 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 16 days and exhibiting higher humidity at 90%. For more detailed information, you can visit Portsmouth weather in October.
In May, temperatures in Portsmouth typically range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). This month experiences around 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 11 days, resulting in a relatively comfortable humidity level of 79%. In contrast, November sees a drop in temperatures, with minimums of 1°C (33°F) and maximums reaching only 16°C (61°F), averaging at 10°C (50°F). Rain is more frequent in November, with a total precipitation of 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 15 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 92%. For more detailed information on November's weather, visit Portsmouth weather in November.
May and December present a stark contrast in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 22°C (71°F), accompanied by a moderate level of precipitation totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. The humidity in May sits at 79%, creating a comfortable atmosphere as spring unfolds.
In contrast, December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of only 8°C (47°F), reaching a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month sees significantly higher precipitation at 118 mm (4.7 in) spread across 16 days, and humidity rises to 92%, contributing to a damp and chillier environment. For more details on what to expect, you can refer to this link: Portsmouth weather in December.
As May unfolds in Portsmouth, the weather strikes a delightful balance between the lingering chill of early spring and the warmth that hints at summer's arrival. With average temperatures rising and humidity peaking, this month offers a refreshing change, though it also brings more frequent showers. While May sees a substantial jump in warmth compared to the cooler months, the unpredictability of rainfall becomes more prevalent, encouraging residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of the season. For those looking to explore what other months may offer, insights can be found at Portsmouth Climate.