Last updated: March 17, 2025
In Saffron Walden, United Kingdom, May brings a delightful transition into warmer weather, with maximum temperatures soaring up to 27°C (80°F) while the average hovers around 13°C (55°F). Despite the pleasant warmth, residents experience a chill with minimum temperatures dipping to 1°C (35°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 82%, creating a lush and vibrant atmosphere. This mix of warmth and moisture makes May an invigorating time to explore the scenic beauty of Saffron Walden.
In Saffron Walden, May ushers in a noticeable warmth as spring transitions into summer, with temperatures reflecting a significant rise from the earlier months. The minimum temperature climbs to a comfortable 1°C (35°F), while the average temperature reaches a pleasant 13°C (55°F). Days can be quite warm, boasting a maximum of 27°C (80°F), making it a delightful time to enjoy outdoor activities. This trend of increasing warmth follows a steady progression from the chilly depths of winter, where January and February linger in sub-zero temperatures, through to the milder March and April. By May, the gradual warming signals the start of more vibrant and lively days, inviting residents and visitors alike to soak in the beauty of the region as it blossoms into full spring.
In Saffron Walden, May heralds a shift in precipitation patterns, with rainfall reaching 68 mm (2.7 in) across approximately 11 days. This spike marks an increase from April's 31 mm (1.2 in), indicating the onset of late spring weather. The moist conditions create a vibrant backdrop for blooming gardens and lush landscapes, aligning with the trend of rising rainfall amounts as the year progresses. Following May, June brings even more rain, reaching 72 mm (2.8 in), suggesting a gradual pattern of increasing precipitation that peaks in the summer months. This trend reflects the transition from the drier early months to a more verdant and wetter landscape, perfect for enjoying the rich, green vitality of the season.
As spring unfolds in Saffron Walden, May brings a refreshing dip in humidity, averaging at 82%. This marks a gradual decrease from the higher levels seen in the preceding months, particularly from January's 91% and February's 89%. The trend suggests a transition towards the drier summer months, setting the stage for June's humidity to drop even further to 81%. This shift not only enhances the outdoor experience during May but also indicates the gradual awakening of warmer weather, making it a pleasant time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the blooming landscapes.
As the calendar turns to May, Saffron Walden experiences a significant uptick in UV intensity, with a UV Index of 7—indicating a high exposure category. This shift marks a transition from the more moderate levels seen in earlier months, where the burn time was a comfortable 30 minutes in March and April. In contrast, May's higher UV index reduces the safe sun exposure time to just 25 minutes, emphasizing the need for sun protection as the days grow longer and sunnier. Following May, the UV Index peaks again in June and July, reaching a very high level of 8. This trend highlights the importance of being proactive about sun safety as the season progresses. For more insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out Saffron Walden UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As May rolls in, Saffron Walden basks in the radiant glow of increased sunshine, with 397 hours of sunlight illuminating the landscape, making it one of the brightest months of the year. Following a notable rise from 323 hours in April, May showcases a significant leap that precedes the sunniest days of summer. This month serves as a turning point, highlighting a consistent upward trend in sunlight hours that peaks in July. Interestingly, after a strong May, the hours slightly dip in June before the summer sun reaches its zenith. The gradual decline in sunshine hours as autumn approaches reminds us of the fleeting nature of these vibrant days, but May’s brilliance certainly sets a lively tone for the season ahead.
In Saffron Walden, May offers a mixed bag when it comes to sunny weather. With a 32% chance of sunshine, it sits comfortably in the middle of the seasonal spectrum, following the promising 47% likelihood in April. This uptick in sunny days as spring unfolds is a notable trend, leading into the traditionally sunnier summer months, though June dips down slightly to 28%. While May might not boast the highest sunshine probability, it still provides a delightful window for enjoying the blossoming landscapes, making it a charming time to explore this picturesque town in the heart of the UK.
As spring blooms into summer in Saffron Walden, the daylight hours experience a remarkable transformation. Starting from 8 hours in January, the days gradually lengthen, adding an hour in February and two more by March. By April, the daylight stretches to 13 hours, paving the way for May, where residents enjoy a generous 15 hours of sunlight. The trend continues into June and July, peaking at 16 hours before gently tapering off in August. As the seasons shift, daylight decreases once again, dipping to 12 hours in September and further down to 10 hours in October, before recovering to 8 hours by November and reaching a low of 7 hours in December. This cyclical pattern highlights not only the beauty of each season but also the increased opportunity for outdoor activities during the vibrant spring and summer months.
In May, Saffron Walden experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), slightly milder than the previous few months. After a notable dip in April, where winds slowed to 3.6 m/s (8 mph), May marks a subtle resurgence in blustery conditions as spring blooms in full swing. This month’s wind speed remains consistent with early spring months like January and February, which had averages of 4.6 m/s (10 mph) and 4.9 m/s (11 mph), respectively. As the temperatures rise, the refreshing winds invite residents and visitors alike to enjoy the enchanting landscapes, making May a delightful blend of warmth and gentle gusts—a perfect setting for outdoor escapades.
The weather in Saffron Walden 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 Saffron Walden and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in May and January, it's evident that May boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with averages reaching around 13°C (55°F) and maximums soaring to 27°C (80°F). In contrast, January experiences much chillier conditions, with average temperatures of just 5°C (41°F) and maximums peaking at 14°C (58°F). Additionally, May sees higher precipitation levels at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, while January has slightly lower rainfall at 52 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are also higher in January at 91%, compared to May's 82%. For a detailed look at January weather, visit Saffron Walden weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, it becomes clear that May offers significantly milder temperatures and a greater range. While February records a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), May sees temperatures starting at a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and averaging 13°C (55°F), peaking at a warm 27°C (80°F). Precipitation levels are also different; February receives 49 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, whereas May experiences a slightly higher total of 68 mm (2.7 in) but maintains the same number of rainy days. Humidity is higher in February at 89%, compared to May’s 82%. For a detailed look at February's conditions, you can visit Saffron Walden weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it's clear that May offers a much warmer and more pleasant climate. The average temperature in May rises to 13°C (55°F), with highs reaching 27°C (80°F), compared to March's average of only 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Furthermore, May experiences slightly more precipitation at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, while March sees 54 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days, contributing to a fresh but cooler atmosphere. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with May at 82% and March slightly higher at 86%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Saffron Walden weather in March.
May experiences milder temperatures compared to April, with minimums rising from -2°C (29°F) in April to 1°C (35°F) in May. The average temperature also increases, reaching 13°C (55°F) in May, compared to April's 9°C (49°F). While both months share similar maximum temperatures, May tends to be slightly wetter, with 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, compared to April's 31 mm (1.2 in) over 8 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but April has a marginally higher average at 85%, compared to May's 82%. For more details on April's weather patterns, you can visit Saffron Walden weather in April.
May and June exhibit a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 82%. In contrast, June warms up, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 16°C (62°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 72 mm (2.8 in) over the same number of rainy days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 81%. For more detailed insights on June weather, check out Saffron Walden weather in June.
In May, temperatures in Saffron Walden range from a chilly 1°C (35°F) at night to a pleasant average of 13°C (55°F) during the day, peaking at around 27°C (80°F). With 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days and humidity levels at 82%, May is a month of transitional weather, where spring blooms are often accompanied by rain. In contrast, July sees warmer temperatures with a minimum of 9°C (48°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and maximums soaring up to 35°C (95°F). The month experiences slightly less rainfall at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 76%, making it a drier and sunnier time of year. For more detailed information, check Saffron Walden weather in July.
The weather in May and August shows notable differences in temperature and humidity levels. May typically experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), compared to August, which starts at a milder minimum of 8°C (47°F) and reaches an average of 18°C (64°F). The maximum temperature also varies significantly, peaking at 27°C (80°F) in May and soaring to 34°C (93°F) in August. Precipitation levels are relatively close, with May receiving 68 mm (2.7 inches) over 11 days and August slightly higher at 74 mm (2.9 inches) over 12 days. Additionally, May's higher humidity of 82% contrasts with August's more comfortable 73%. For more details, you can visit Saffron Walden weather in August.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (35°F) at night to a pleasant high of 27°C (80°F) during the day, averaging around 13°C (55°F). This month experiences about 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, along with a high humidity level of 82%.
Contrastingly, September's weather starts to cool slightly, with minimum temperatures at 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). It sees less rainfall, with 52 mm (2.1 in) over approximately 10 days, and a marginally lower humidity of 80%. For a more detailed look at September's climate, visit Saffron Walden weather in September.
When comparing the weather in May and October, several differences and similarities emerge. May typically sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F). In contrast, October starts to cool down, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with October having slightly higher levels at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 12 days compared to May's 68 mm (2.7 in) across 11 days. Additionally, humidity is notably higher in October at 89%, compared to May's 82%. For more detailed monthly insights, you can check Saffron Walden weather in October.
In comparing the weather between May and November, one can observe notable differences in temperature and humidity. May typically enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences approximately 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by a relative humidity of 82%. In contrast, November presents cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and reaching a maximum of 17°C (63°F), yielding an average of 8°C (46°F). November sees less precipitation, at 47 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days, but higher humidity levels at 92%. For a detailed look at specific weather patterns during this month, you can check Saffron Walden weather in November.
May and December exhibit contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to winter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F), accompanied by 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over about 11 days, and a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging only 6°C (43°F). This month records slightly higher precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) spread across 14 days, and a higher humidity of 92%. For more details, you can check Saffron Walden weather in December.
May in Saffron Walden is a delightful transition from the chill of spring, marked by the promise of warmer days ahead. With temperatures reaching up to a pleasant 27°C (80°F), the month offers a refreshing contrast to the cooler months, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. While average temperatures hover around 13°C (55°F), evenings can still feel brisk, and the presence of 82% humidity adds a touch of spring’s freshness to the air. However, May isn't without its share of rain, experiencing about 11 days of precipitation that contribute to a total of 68 mm (2.7 in) for the month. This delicate balance of warmth and moisture sets May apart from the rest of the year, making it a unique time to explore the beauty of Saffron Walden. For detailed insights on the climatic patterns throughout the year, visit Saffron Walden Climate.