May Weather in St Ives, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

May in St Ives, United Kingdom presents a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing coastal charm. With a maximum temperature of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), the weather is perfect for exploring this picturesque seaside town. However, be prepared for rain, as a total of 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation can be expected over 12 days, contributing to the lush greenery of the landscape. The humidity level of 85% adds a coastal freshness to the air, making it an ideal time for both relaxation and adventure. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere that May brings to St Ives!

May Temperature in St Ives

In St Ives, May marks a delightful transition into spring, with temperatures steadily rising. The minimum temperature reaches a comfortable 5°C (42°F) and peaks at a pleasant 21°C (70°F), highlighting the shift from the chill of winter months. With an average temperature of 12°C (54°F), this month offers an inviting climate perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. The warmth of May sets the stage for the upcoming summer, as residents and visitors alike embrace longer days and the blooming coastal scenery. As the air becomes milder, it's the ideal time to enjoy the picturesque beaches and vibrant community life that St Ives is known for.

May Weather in St Ives: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in St Ives, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec474748505459626260555149
Data source: Temperature data for St Ives 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 St Ives

In May, St Ives experiences a moderate precipitation level of 64 mm (2.5 in) spread over an average of 12 days. This amount reflects a notable decrease from the previous months, particularly when compared to April's lower 48 mm (1.9 in), signaling the onset of a more temperate transition into summer. While May is wetter than summer months like July and August, it shows a trend toward stabilization in precipitation following the heavier rains that characterize October through March. This pattern indicates a gradual shift where rainfall becomes less frequent but remains significant enough to maintain the lush beauty of the region as it moves into the warmer months.

May Precipitation Trends in St Ives

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in St Ives, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec789287486482656473129113138
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in St Ives

May marks a notable transition in St Ives, United Kingdom, as humidity reaches 85%, reflecting a gradual increase from the previous months. This rise continues the trend observed since January, where humidity levels hovered at 81%. Throughout the spring months, humidity has consistently remained high, peaking at 84% in both April and May. As summer approaches, the increased moisture in the air sets the stage for the warmer months ahead, with humidity levels expected to further climb in June and July. Such trends highlight St Ives’ coastal climate, characterized by mildly humid conditions, ensuring a refreshing ambiance as the year progresses.

May Average Humidity in St Ives

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in St Ives, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec81%84%83%84%85%86%87%86%85%85%82%80%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in St Ives

In St Ives, May marks a notable shift in the UV Index, rising to 7, categorized as high exposure, with a burn time of just 25 minutes. This trend reflects a progression from the lower values of earlier months: January and February languish at a mere 2, while March sees a moderate 4. As spring transitions into early summer, April's UV Index jumps to 6, but it is in May that sun safety becomes increasingly vital. Residents and visitors alike should be prepared to protect their skin, as the UV intensity will only continue to escalate into June and July. For detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out St Ives UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in St Ives for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for St Ives 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec224679876421
Data source: St Ives 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 St Ives

In the picturesque coastal town of St Ives, United Kingdom, May shines as one of the brightest months of the year, boasting an impressive 411 hours of sunshine. This month marks a significant leap from the earlier months, particularly from a modest 97 hours in January and a gradual climb to 355 hours in April. As spring blooms into summer, the sunshine hours continue to build momentum, with June and July also enjoying exceptional brightness, though just slightly less than May, with 409 and 427 hours respectively. This seasonal trend highlights St Ives’ transformation into a sun-kissed haven, inviting visitors to bask in the warmth and stunning landscapes, culminating in a delightful summer ambience that prevails through the early months.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in St Ives: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours St Ives 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec97h158h238h355h411h409h427h390h328h261h155h119h
Data source: St Ives May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in St Ives During May

In St Ives, the likelihood of sunny weather in May hovers at 38%, providing a pleasant continuation of the trend towards brighter skies that begins in April with a notable increase to 50%. While May experiences a slight dip compared to its predecessor, it still outshines many earlier months, particularly the colder winter months where sunshine chances are typically below 30%. This gradual upward trajectory towards summer creates a vibrant atmosphere, making May an appealing time for visitors and locals alike to enjoy the outdoors, despite fluctuating sunshine in the months that follow.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in St Ives

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in St Ives 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 St Ives experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%24%34%50%38%29%39%32%32%28%22%20%
Data source: St Ives May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in St Ives in May

As spring blooms into summer, May in St Ives, United Kingdom, heralds a delightful increase in daylight duration, boasting an impressive 15 hours of daylight. This surge follows a steady ascent from January's modest 8 hours to April's welcoming 13 hours, illustrating the gradual lengthening of days as we move toward the summer solstice. The pleasant May sunlight sets the stage for outdoor activities, perfectly balancing the transition from the cool winter months to the vibrant warmth of early summer. With each passing month, the growing hours of daylight invite residents and visitors alike to embrace the enchanting beauty of St Ives, making May a truly splendid time to explore its picturesque landscapes.

Average Daylight Hours in St Ives for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in St Ives throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 35m10h 4m11h 55m13h 49m15h 27m16h 18m15h 51m14h 22m12h 33m10h 40m9h8h 6m
Data source: St Ives daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in St Ives

In May, St Ives experiences a refreshing revival in wind speeds, averaging 6.5 m/s (15 mph), which aligns closely with the conditions felt in both January and March. This month marks a notable transition from the gentler breezes of April, where the average dipped to 5.1 m/s (11 mph). As spring progresses into early summer, the winds begin to pick up again, invigorating the coastal air and enhancing the sea views. This pattern is reflected in the months that follow, as June and July see a slight decrease in wind strength, hinting at a calmer summer atmosphere. Overall, May serves as a bridge, combining the briskness of spring with the warmth of approaching summer in St Ives.

Average May Wind Speed in St Ives

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in St Ives, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6.87.96.55.16.5 m/s4.54.85.24.76.56.08.0
Data source: St Ives May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in St Ives Compares to Other Months

The weather in St Ives 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 St Ives and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather of May and January, May offers a significantly milder temperature range, with minimums around 5°C (42°F) and maximums reaching up to 21°C (70°F), making it a more comfortable month overall. In contrast, January, while cooler, has a minimum temperature of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in May at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, compared to January's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 13 days, suggesting that January may feel wetter despite similar levels of humidity—85% in May and 81% in January. For more details, you can visit St Ives weather in January.

May and February present quite different weather experiences. In May, temperatures start to rise, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). This month sees around 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, and humidity is relatively high at 85%. In contrast, February is cooler, with a minimum temperature of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 8°C (48°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month experiences a higher total precipitation of 92 mm (3.6 in) over 17 days, while humidity remains similar at 84%. For a closer look at February weather specifics, you can check St Ives weather in February.

In comparing the weather of May and March, May tends to be noticeably warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, March experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures varying between -3°C (27°F) and 15°C (60°F). While May has an average rainfall of 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, March sees a higher precipitation level of 87 mm (3.4 in) over more rainy days, totaling 17. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 85% compared to March’s 83%. For more detailed information, you can check out St Ives weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, May tends to be milder with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F), compared to April's average of 10°C (50°F). The maximum temperatures in May reach up to 21°C (70°F), making it a warmer month overall. However, May also sees more precipitation, with 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, while April experiences less rainfall at 48 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with May at 85% and April at 84%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, visit St Ives weather in April.

May and June showcase a notable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F), while June sees a warmer profile, with minimums of 9°C (49°F) and maximums reaching 25°C (76°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Precipitation also increases slightly from May's 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days to June's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 14 days, indicating a trend towards wetter conditions. Humidity remains quite consistent, hovering around 85% in May and slightly rising to 86% in June. For more detailed information, you can check St Ives weather in June.

In comparing the weather between May and July, we see a noticeable shift in temperature and conditions. May tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an overall average of 12°C (54°F). In contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with lows of 12°C (53°F) and highs reaching 25°C (78°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with May receiving 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days and July slightly more, at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are also quite comparable, with May at 85% and July at 87%. For a detailed look at July’s weather patterns, you can visit St Ives weather in July.

May and August present contrasting yet relatively mild weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days and high humidity at 85%. In comparison, August offers warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging at 16°C (62°F). The precipitation in August is similar at 63 mm (2.5 in) but occurs over 13 days, and the humidity is slightly higher at 86%. For more details, check out the St Ives weather in August.

May and September showcase distinctly different weather patterns as spring transitions into autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). Despite the pleasant temperatures, May experiences significant precipitation, totaling 64 mm (2.5 inches) over approximately 12 days, maintaining high humidity levels around 85%.

In contrast, September brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). Although September sees slightly more precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 inches) over 13 days, the overall feeling is often more summery compared to the colder spring. Notably, both months share the same high humidity of 85%. For more details on September weather, you can visit St Ives weather in September.

In comparing the weather of May and October, both months exhibit relatively mild temperatures, with May averaging around 12°C (54°F) and October slightly cooler at 13°C (56°F). However, while May tends to be drier with 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, October experiences a significant increase in rainfall, accumulating 129 mm (5.1 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels remain consistent at 85% for both months, but the wetter conditions in October can create a distinctly different atmosphere. For those looking to understand more about the specific weather patterns, St Ives weather in October provides additional insights into this month’s climatic conditions.

May and November showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 21°C (70°F). The month typically experiences about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, combined with relatively high humidity at 85%. In contrast, November sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), peaking at 16°C (61°F). This month is wetter, accumulating around 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain over 20 days and maintaining a humidity level of 82%. For more details on November's climate, you can check St Ives weather in November.

May and December exhibit contrasting weather characteristics. In May, temperatures start from a minimum of 5°C (42°F), soaring to an average of 12°C (54°F) and peaking at 21°C (70°F), with a relatively lower precipitation of 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 12 days. The humidity is quite high at 85%, indicating a fresh spring atmosphere. In contrast, December experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). This month is also wetter, with 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain spread across 22 days, and the humidity hovering around 80%. For more detailed information on the weather conditions in December, visit St Ives weather in December.

Compare St Ives's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in St Ives

As May arrives in St Ives, the weather begins to shift, showcasing a delightful mix of warmth and occasional rain. With temperatures reaching a pleasant 21°C (70°F), this month stands out from the cooler spring months, allowing for more outdoor adventures. However, one may still encounter some rainy days, typical of early spring, contributing to an average humidity of 85%. The combination of mild temperatures and sporadic precipitation creates a unique atmosphere, making May a beautiful time to explore the charm of St Ives. For more detailed insights on what to expect throughout the year, visit St Ives Climate.