May Weather in Reading, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

May in Reading, United Kingdom, offers a vibrant mix of weather, with maximum temperatures reaching a pleasant 26°C (78°F), while the average settles around a mild 13°C (55°F). Although the month does see some chill with minimums dropping to 0°C (33°F), the overall warmth invites outdoor activities. Rainfall is a common feature, accumulating to 68 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 11 days, contributing to the area's lush greenery. With an average humidity of 79%, May delivers a refreshing yet occasionally damp ambiance, making it a month of dynamic contrasts for residents and visitors alike.

May Temperature in Reading

May in Reading, United Kingdom, marks a delightful transition into warmer weather, showcasing a significant rise in temperatures as spring unfolds. With minimums hovering around 0°C (33°F) and an average temperature of 13°C (55°F), it's a time when the chill of winter finally recedes. The maximum temperature can reach up to 26°C (78°F), providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoying the blooming landscapes. Compared to earlier months, May offers a comfortable warmth, reflecting a steady upward trend as the region prepares to embrace the summer's heat in the following months. This month truly encapsulates the essence of spring with its mild and pleasant climate, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the revitalizing ambiance of Reading.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Reading, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414345495561656359534643
Data source: Temperature data for Reading 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 Reading

In May, Reading, United Kingdom, experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, averaging 68 mm (2.7 in) over the course of 11 rainy days. This increase follows a relatively dry April, where only 36 mm (1.4 in) fell across 8 days. The transition into May signals a shift to wetter weather, setting the stage for the summer months ahead. As the spring blossoms, the rain tends to nourish the lush greenery, making May feel alive with vibrant flora. Interestingly, June continues this trend, with an even higher average of 75 mm (2.9 in), maintaining the rhythm of frequent showers that keep Reading's landscapes beautifully verdant. This pattern highlights the importance of May as a bridge between the drier early spring and the wetter summer weeks to come.

May Precipitation Trends in Reading

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Reading, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec505259376875667049955583
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Reading

In Reading, United Kingdom, May marks a noticeable shift in humidity levels, dropping to 79% from the higher percentages seen in the earlier months. This decline is part of a broader trend where humidity generally decreases as spring progresses into summer, with later months such as July experiencing the lowest humidity at 71%. May’s milder humidity offers a refreshing respite after the wetter winter months, allowing residents to enjoy blossoming landscapes and more comfortable outdoor conditions. As summer approaches, humidity levels begin to rise again in June and August, but May stands out as a transitional phase that balances the lingering dampness of spring with the warmth of the approaching summer season.

May Average Humidity in Reading

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Reading, 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%79%81%71%76%82%91%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Reading

As May approaches in Reading, United Kingdom, residents can expect an increased UV Index, reaching 7 this month, which falls into the high exposure category. This marks a notable rise from April's UV Index of 6, emphasizing the need for sun protection as burn time decreases to 25 minutes. This trend signals the arrival of sunnier days, as daylight hours lengthen and outdoor activities become more enticing. It's essential to remain vigilant and safeguard your skin from the sun's rays. For more detailed information and updates, visit Reading UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Reading for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Reading 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124678876421
Data source: Reading 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 Reading

In May, Reading, United Kingdom basks in 388 hours of glorious sunshine, marking a peak in the year’s luminosity. Following a steady climb from 98 hours in January, the sunlit days accumulate dramatically, especially in March and April, where the increasing daylight hints at summer’s approach. This month stands out not only for its abundant sunshine but also for setting the stage for the sun-drenched months that follow, including June and July, which maintain impressive totals of 377 and 397 hours, respectively. As the year progresses, the sunshine begins to wane from the late summer, transitioning through the autumn months, yet May remains a cherished reminder of nature's brilliance before the seasonal changes take hold.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Reading: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Reading 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec98h146h203h313h388h377h397h359h293h237h144h111h
Data source: Reading May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Reading During May

As spring blooms into May, Reading, United Kingdom, experiences a notable shift in weather patterns, with the chance of sunny days peaking at 32%. Although this represents a decrease from April's 51%, it still highlights a significant improvement from the winter months, where sunlight was scarce, averaging only 20% to 28% in early spring. Following May, the likelihood of sunshine dips again in June, showing a dynamic fluctuation throughout the season. This trend indicates that while May may not be the sunniest month, it certainly offers a promising balance as residents and visitors enjoy the warming embrace of spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Reading

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Reading 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 Reading experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec20%24%28%51%32%26%36%23%27%25%31%17%
Data source: Reading May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Reading in May

In Reading, United Kingdom, May marks a delightful transition into the heart of spring, with daylight extending to a generous 15 hours. This increase is part of a broader trend that begins in January, where daylight starts at a mere 8 hours. As winter gives way to spring, daylight steadily stretches, soaring to 11 hours in March and reaching a vibrant 13 hours in April. By the end of May, the days are long and bright, paving the way for the peak summer months of June and July, where daylight stretches to an impressive 16 hours. As the year progresses, daylight gradually diminishes towards autumn, with September seeing 12 hours before tapering back down to 8 hours by November. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also enriches daily life in Reading.

Average Daylight Hours in Reading for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Reading throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 24m9h 58m11h 55m13h 54m15h 37m16h 31m16h 3m14h 29m12h 34m10h 36m8h 50m7h 54m
Data source: Reading daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Reading

In May, Reading experiences a refreshing average wind speed of 4.3 m/s (10 mph), which aligns perfectly with the gusty conditions noted in both January and March. This month stands out as one of the more breezy times of the year, providing a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities as the landscape flourishes with spring blooms. Notably, April sees a dip in wind speed to 3.4 m/s (8 mph), contrasting with May and suggesting a transition into the more blustery late spring. Overall, the consistent wind speeds in April and May create a rhythm that invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy the invigorating air while taking in the sights of a vibrant Reading.

Average May Wind Speed in Reading

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Reading, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.34.94.43.44.3 m/s3.23.23.73.44.43.94.5
Data source: Reading May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Reading Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between May and January, there is a noticeable shift in both temperature and humidity. May enjoys milder conditions with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), while January sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). May also experiences a higher average temperature of 13°C (55°F) compared to January's 5°C (41°F). Additionally, while May has 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, January totals 50 mm (2.0 in) with slightly fewer rainy days at 9. The humidity is higher in January at 91%, compared to May's 79%, indicating that January is not only colder but also feels much more damp. For a detailed look at January's weather patterns, check out Reading weather in January.

May and February present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a pleasant 26°C (78°F) during the day, offering an average of 13°C (55°F) while experiencing 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days with a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, February is notably colder, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and peaking at 18°C (65°F), averaging at 6°C (43°F). February sees slightly less rainfall at 52 mm (2.0 in) across around 10 days and higher humidity at 89%. For more details on February weather, visit Reading weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, May generally offers milder temperatures, with an average of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), compared to March's average of 7°C (45°F) and a peak of 22°C (71°F). While March can still dip to a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F), May's temperatures only drop to a mild 0°C (33°F). Both months see a fair amount of precipitation, with May receiving 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, while March has slightly less at 59 mm (2.3 in) across 14 days. Humidity is also higher in March at 86%, compared to May's 79%. For more insights on the March weather, you can check Reading weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a notable increase in average temperatures, with May's minimum at 0°C (33°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), compared to April's minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). Both months reach similar maximum temperatures of around 26°C (79°F), but May experiences slightly more precipitation at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, compared to April’s 36 mm (1.4 in) over 8 days. Humidity is also marginally lower in May at 79%, compared to April's 85%. For a more detailed exploration of April's weather, you can visit Reading weather in April.

In May, the weather is generally cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 0°C (33°F) to a high of 26°C (78°F), and an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month also experiences around 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to an average humidity of 79%. In contrast, June warms up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). While June sees slightly more precipitation at 75 mm (2.9 in) over just 10 days, the humidity remains quite similar at 80%. For more detailed information on June weather, you can visit Reading weather in June.

In May, the weather is generally cooler, with minimum temperatures dropping to 0°C (33°F) and average highs reaching 26°C (78°F), accompanied by significant humidity at 79%. The month experiences around 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, indicating a moderate likelihood of rain. In contrast, July offers warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at a hot 35°C (96°F). Even though July sees slightly less precipitation at 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, the humidity is lower at 71%, making it feel less muggy. For more details about the weather in July, you can check Reading weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather profiles, with May characterized by cooler temperatures and higher humidity. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a pleasant 26°C (78°F) during the day, averaging around 13°C (55°F). The month sees about 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to the relatively high humidity of 79%. In contrast, August enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (92°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Although August experiences slightly more rainfall at 70 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, the humidity is a touch lower at 76%. For more detailed information, you can check Reading weather in August.

May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a warm 26°C (78°F) during the day, with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month receives a fair amount of rainfall, totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, and the humidity hovers around 79%. In contrast, September brings slightly warmer nights with temperatures starting at 3°C (37°F) and reaching up to 28°C (83°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is less frequent in September, with only 49 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days and humidity at a similar level of 82%. For a closer look at September’s climate, you can visit Reading weather in September.

May and October exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences around 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days and maintains a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, October sees slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums still at 0°C (33°F) but averaging 11°C (53°F) and peaking at 23°C (73°F). This month also experiences higher rainfall, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, alongside increased humidity at 90%. For more detailed insights, check out Reading weather in October.

May and November present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 0°C (33°F) at night to a warm 26°C (78°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month sees relatively moderate precipitation of 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with lows of -2°C (28°F) and highs reaching only 16°C (62°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (46°F). This month also sees less precipitation at 55 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days, but the humidity is higher at 92%. For a detailed look at November weather specifically, check out Reading weather in November.

The weather in May is generally milder compared to December, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F). In contrast, December experiences colder conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -4°C (24°F), peaking at a maximum of 14°C (58°F) and averaging 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December with 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, while May receives 68 mm (2.7 in) spread over 11 days. Additionally, December's humidity levels are more intense at 92%, compared to May's 79%. For more detailed insights, check Reading weather in December.

Compare Reading's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Reading

As May unfolds in Reading, the weather begins to shift towards warmer days, with temperatures that contrast significantly with the cooler months preceding it. While the average temperature rises, offering a pleasant respite from the chill, it is accompanied by an increase in humidity, creating a unique balance between warmth and moisture. Although rain is still a common visitor, with about 11 rainy days, the overall feel of the month is more vibrant and inviting than the preceding spring months. This shift not only enhances outdoor activities but also brings the landscape to life, marking May as a transitional period brimming with promise. For a deeper understanding of how weather varies throughout the year, check out Reading Climate.