May Weather in Ballycastle, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In Ballycastle, United Kingdom, May brings a mild climate, characterized by an average temperature of 10°C (50°F), with maximums reaching 15°C (60°F) and plunging to minimums around 5°C (41°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 11 rainy days, contributing to a high humidity level of 82%. Visitors can expect a blend of showers and sun, making it essential to pack accordingly while exploring this enchanting coastal town.

May Temperature in Ballycastle

In May, Ballycastle emerges from the chill of winter and begins to enjoy noticeably milder temperatures. The month boasts a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F), registering as the first real hint of warmth in the year. With an average of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum reaching 15°C (60°F), May sets the stage for a refreshing spring, characterized by blossoming flora and increased outdoor activity. This gradual rise in temperatures is a delightful trend, paving the way for an even warmer June, and suggests that Ballycastle is transitioning toward the more temperate days of summer ahead.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Ballycastle, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec454444464953565756534946
Data source: Temperature data for Ballycastle 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 Ballycastle

In May, Ballycastle experiences a pleasant transition into spring with an average precipitation of 69 mm (2.7 in), marking a significant drop from the preceding months. With only 11 rainy days, this month offers more opportunities for outdoor activities compared to the wetter winter and early spring months. The slight increase from April’s 47 mm suggests a gentle return to the typical Irish climate, as May stands out as a relatively drier month that paves the way for the more saturated summer months ahead. This blend of moderate rainfall and increasing daylight makes May an enjoyable time for both locals and visitors to explore the scenic beauty of this coastal town.

May Precipitation Trends in Ballycastle

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Ballycastle, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121138106477098105132112160167166
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Ballycastle

In May, Ballycastle experiences a delightful dip in humidity, averaging around 82%—the lowest for the year, which offers a refreshing contrast to the typically damp conditions of earlier months. As spring unfolds, humidity levels gradually decrease from January’s peak of 87%, through the mild transition of April's 85%, paving the way for the sunnier skies of early summer. This notable reduction not only contributes to more comfortable outdoor activities but also signals the onset of vibrant blooms and coastal adventures. However, the month is just a precursor, as humidity begins to creep up again in June, hinting at the mild fluctuations that define Ballycastle’s maritime climate throughout the year.

May Average Humidity in Ballycastle

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Ballycastle, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%86%86%85%82%84%86%86%88%89%90%87%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Ballycastle

As spring gives way to summer, May in Ballycastle, United Kingdom, marks a notable shift in ultraviolet (UV) exposure. With a UV Index climbing to 6, categorized as high, residents and visitors alike should be mindful of the reduced burn time of just 25 minutes. This increase from the moderate categories seen in March and April signals a time when sun protection becomes more essential. The trend continues into June, where the UV Index escalates further, emphasizing the need for vigilance as the sun's intensity peaks. For a detailed look at UV levels throughout the year, visit Ballycastle UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Ballycastle for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Ballycastle 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568865311
Data source: Ballycastle 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 Ballycastle

As May unfolds in Ballycastle, the vibrant days truly come alive, boasting an impressive 408 hours of sunshine, marking a radiant peak in the year's brightness. This delightful month not only showcases a dramatic leap from the 325 hours recorded in April but also sets the stage for the sun-soaked months ahead. Following May, June and July continue to deliver abundant sunlight, maintaining a steady rhythm with 396 and 410 hours, respectively. In stark contrast, the winter months reveal a noticeable decline, with January languishing at just 73 hours. This clear seasonal trend highlights Ballycastle’s transformation into a sunny haven by spring, inviting visitors to bask in the warmth of its delightful May days.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Ballycastle: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Ballycastle 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec73h148h211h325h408h396h410h361h289h226h118h83h
Data source: Ballycastle May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Ballycastle During May

In Ballycastle, the likelihood of sunny weather in May presents a notable trend, with a 38% chance of sunshine, marking a decline from the 46% recorded in April. This dip illustrates the transition from the season of renewal to the lingering unpredictability of early summer. While the chance of sun is still relatively high compared to the months that follow—such as June at 26%—May maintains its position as a peak for potential sunshine in the spring months. Overall, May offers a promising outlook for sun seekers, encouraging outdoor activities amidst the refreshing backdrop of blossoming nature.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Ballycastle

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Ballycastle 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 Ballycastle experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24%27%17%46%38%26%28%21%23%17%18%14%
Data source: Ballycastle May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Ballycastle in May

As spring unfolds in Ballycastle, May marks a vibrant transition into longer daylight hours, basking the region in approximately 16 hours of sunlight each day. This increase is part of a remarkable upward trend that begins in January with just 7 hours and steadily climbs as the months progress. April, with its 14 hours, serves as a precursor to May's brilliance, while June peaks at 17 hours, offering the longest days of the year. Following this zenith, the daylight begins to gracefully recede, with July retaining 16 hours before gradually shifting toward shorter days in the latter months. The rhythm of natural light in Ballycastle not only illuminates the landscape but also beautifully punctuates the seasonal changes, inviting residents and visitors alike to fully embrace the longer days of spring and summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Ballycastle for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Ballycastle throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 48m9h 39m11h 53m14h 11m16h 13m17h 18m16h 43m14h 52m12h 39m10h 23m8h 20m7h 12m
Data source: Ballycastle daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Ballycastle

In May, Ballycastle experiences a mild average wind speed of 6.4 m/s (14 mph), signaling a transition towards calmer summer months. This slight increase from April's 5.9 m/s (13 mph) is part of a broader trend of diminishing wind speeds as the year progresses, with July and August seeing the gentlest breezes at 4.0 m/s (9 mph) and 4.7 m/s (10 mph) respectively. Interestingly, the wind tends to pick up again in the autumn months, culminating in a notable spike in November with 9.6 m/s (21 mph). The relatively tranquil winds of May, coupled with the onset of spring, create an inviting atmosphere, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the picturesque coastal views.

Average May Wind Speed in Ballycastle

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Ballycastle, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8.010.57.65.96.4 m/s5.54.04.75.57.99.68.5
Data source: Ballycastle May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Ballycastle Compares to Other Months

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

When comparing the weather in May and January, it's clear that May tends to be milder and drier. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). The month sees about 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, January experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is higher, totaling 121 mm (4.7 in) across 17 days, alongside a slightly higher humidity of 87%. For more details on January's weather, you can check Ballycastle weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, May tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), while February averages temperatures between 1°C (34°F) and 12°C (54°F). Additionally, May experiences less precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, compared to the significantly wetter February, which sees 138 mm (5.4 in) across 18 days. The humidity is slightly lower in May at 82%, compared to February's 86%. For more detailed information on February weather, visit Ballycastle weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, May generally offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F), while March experiences chillier conditions, starting at a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and averaging 7°C (44°F). Rainfall is more frequent in March, with precipitation recorded on 17 days and totaling 106 mm (4.2 in), compared to May's 11 days of rain and 69 mm (2.7 in). Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in March at 86%, compared to 82% in May. For a detailed look at March weather in Ballycastle, you can visit Ballycastle weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, May tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), compared to April's temperatures, which range from 2°C (37°F) to 13°C (55°F). Precipitation in May is also higher at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, while April sees 47 mm (1.9 in) over 10 days. Interestingly, humidity levels remain fairly high in both months, with May at 82% and April at 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Ballycastle weather in April.

May and June offer a gradual transition in weather, with June typically being slightly warmer and wetter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F) and 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, June sees temperatures start at a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and reach up to 16°C (62°F), averaging 12°C (53°F), while experiencing increased rainfall of 98 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days. Additionally, humidity remains comparable, with May at 82% and June slightly higher at 84%. For a more detailed look at June conditions, visit Ballycastle weather in June.

In May, temperatures typically range from a chilly minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average around 10°C (50°F). The month experiences around 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, and humidity levels sit at a relatively high 82%. In contrast, July offers warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). However, July also sees increased rainfall, totaling 105 mm (4.1 in) spread across 16 days, and slightly higher humidity at 86%. For a closer look at July weather specifics, you can check out Ballycastle weather in July.

The weather in May is generally cooler and drier compared to August. During May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F) and relatively low humidity at 82%. In contrast, August sees higher temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging 14°C (57°F). However, August is also wetter, experiencing 132 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation over 19 days, compared to May's 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days and slightly higher humidity at 86%. For a deeper dive into August's climate specifics, you can check Ballycastle weather in August.

In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a comfortable maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average temperature of around 10°C (50°F). The month sees about 69 mm (2.7 in) of rainfall spread over 11 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 82%.

In contrast, September experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). However, it tends to be wetter, accumulating 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation across 19 days and a higher humidity of 88%. For more detailed insights about the weather in September, visit Ballycastle weather in September.

When comparing the weather in May and October, we notice a slight increase in temperatures during October, with minimums rising from 5°C (41°F) to 6°C (43°F) and average temperatures going from 10°C (50°F) to 12°C (53°F). However, October experiences significantly more precipitation, with 160 mm (6.3 in) spread over 24 days, compared to May's 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in October at 89%, compared to 82% in May, leading to a generally wetter and more humid atmosphere as autumn progresses. For a detailed look at October weather specifics, visit Ballycastle weather in October.

May and November both exhibit mild temperatures, with average highs of 15°C (60°F) in May and 14°C (58°F) in November. However, May typically experiences slightly warmer mornings, with a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) compared to November's 4°C (40°F). In terms of precipitation, November is significantly wetter, receiving 167 mm (6.6 in) of rainfall over 23 days, while May sees only 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days. Additionally, November's humidity is higher at 90% compared to May's 82%, contributing to a more overcast and damp atmosphere. For more details on November weather, check out Ballycastle weather in November.

May and December present quite contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a low of 5°C (41°F) to a high of 15°C (60°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F), while December sees a narrower temperature range, with minimums of 2°C (36°F) and maximums of 12°C (54°F) and an overall average of 8°C (47°F). May experiences less precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 11 days, compared to December's significantly wetter climate, which sees 166 mm (6.5 in) of rainfall over 23 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 86%, compared to 82% in May. For a more detailed look at December weather, visit Ballycastle weather in December.

Compare Ballycastle's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Ballycastle

As May unfolds in Ballycastle, the weather begins to showcase a delightful transition from the chill of early spring to more temperate conditions. With pleasant afternoons peaking at 15°C (60°F), the warmer days invite locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Although occasional rain can be expected, with about 11 days of precipitation contributing to a total of 69 mm (2.7 in), this month stands out for its overall milder and more inviting climate compared to the colder months that precede it. The average temperature of 10°C (50°F) and high humidity at 82% add to the refreshing coastal atmosphere, making May a perfect time to explore Ballycastle’s stunning landscapes. For a deeper dive into the local weather patterns throughout the year, check out Ballycastle Climate.