May Weather in Glasgow, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In May, Glasgow, United Kingdom experiences a diverse range of weather conditions, with maximum temperatures reaching 26°C (79°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). The month can start off cool, with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F). Despite this warmth, Glasgow also sees about 67 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall over 12 days, resulting in a humidity level of 80%. With a blend of bright sunny days and refreshing showers, May is a month of vibrant transitions in this dynamic Scottish city.

May Temperature in Glasgow

As spring blossoms into summer, May in Glasgow showcases a delightful shift in temperatures. Beginning with minima settling around -1°C (31°F), the city experiences a steady rise in warmth, culminating in exhilarating maximums reaching 26°C (79°F). This transition is highlighted by an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), which marks a significant climb from the cooler months of April, where the highs only just grazed 22°C (72°F). Such warmth invites locals and visitors alike to revel in outdoor activities, highlighting Glasgow's vibrant parks and historical sites, while the air takes on a refreshing crispness that embodies the essence of spring in the heart of the United Kingdom.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Glasgow, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404143465257595855504441
Data source: Temperature data for Glasgow 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 Glasgow

In May, Glasgow experiences a moderate level of precipitation, with 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain falling over about 12 days. This marks a slight uptick from April's remarkably dry spell of just 44 mm (1.7 in), suggesting a return to the city’s typical drizzly conditions. The month sits comfortably between the wetter months of February and June, indicating that while May is generally mild, it serves as a precursor to the heavier downpours that often characterize the summer months. Overall, this blend of manageable rainfall and the blossoming greenery of spring makes May a transitional gem in Glasgow’s climate narrative.

May Precipitation Trends in Glasgow

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Glasgow, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8412910644671139812791130105117
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Glasgow

As spring unfolds in Glasgow, May brings a welcome drop in humidity to 80%, offering a slight reprieve from the more oppressive levels of preceding months. This decrease marks the beginning of a trend where humidity levels start to soften after the winter's peak, providing a comfortable atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. As summer approaches, humidity subtly rises again in June, but the relative dip in May creates a pleasant contrast to the wetter winter months. This shift not only showcases the city's transition into warmer weather but also sets the stage for vibrant spring days ahead, making May a delightful time to explore Glasgow's rich culture and stunning landscapes.

May Average Humidity in Glasgow

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Glasgow, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%88%86%85%81%83%82%82%88%90%92%89%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Glasgow

As spring transitions into summer, May brings a noticeable uptick in UV exposure for Glasgow, with the UV Index rising to 6, categorizing it as high and reducing the burn time to just 25 minutes. This shift reflects a trend where UV levels gradually increase from the earlier months; January and February start at a low 1 and 2, while March and April see moderate levels of 3 and 5. As summer approaches, the intensity further escalates, peaking in June and July at a very high 8. It's essential to stay vigilant during this period, as the sun's rays become stronger. For detailed insights on UV exposure throughout the year, check out the Glasgow UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Glasgow for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Glasgow 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: Glasgow 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 Glasgow

As spring melts into summer, May greets Glasgow with a vibrant tapestry of sunshine, boasting an impressive 389 hours of sunlight. This marks a significant increase from the previous months, with daily light blossoming as people emerge from the winter gloom. The transition from April's 316 hours to May reflects a noticeable upward trend, heralding the long, bright days of summer ahead. Following closely, July continues this sunny momentum, nearly matching May with 390 hours, while August begins to soften with 344 hours. This pattern showcases a gradual build-up of sunlight that peaks in mid-summer, revitalizing the city and its residents, before the sunlight begins to wane once again.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Glasgow: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Glasgow 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec68h128h181h316h389h378h390h344h274h204h108h71h
Data source: Glasgow May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Glasgow During May

When it comes to the likelihood of sunny weather in Glasgow, May offers a modest 29% chance of sunshine, a slight dip from the previous month’s striking 47% in April. This trend reflects a pattern in Glasgow's weather, where spring tends to bring more sunshine, though it remains unpredictable. In contrast, the sunniest month, April, sets a high bar that May, while still better than many months, struggles to meet. As the year progresses into summer, particularly June, the chances of sun do decrease again, suggesting that May acts as a bridge between the thriving sunlight of spring and the cloudier spells of summer. Thus, while May may not be the sunniest, it still holds promise for those seeking a bright day in this vibrant city.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Glasgow

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Glasgow 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 Glasgow experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec27%25%19%47%30%22%30%26%19%17%26%16%
Data source: Glasgow May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Glasgow in May

As spring transitions into summer, May stands out in Glasgow with an impressive 16 hours of daylight, marking a significant uptick from the 14 hours seen in April. This burgeoning daylight sets the stage for outdoor activities and social gatherings, as residents revel in the longer, sunnier days. Following May, June peaks with an astonishing 17 hours, making it the brightest month of the year. However, the daylight begins to recede gradually in July and beyond, reminding us of the approaching autumn with shorter days ahead. Overall, May encapsulates the essence of spring's vibrancy while hinting at the bright summer that follows.

Average Daylight Hours in Glasgow for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Glasgow throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 42m9h 36m11h 53m14h 13m16h 19m17h 26m16h 50m14h 56m12h 40m10h 21m8h 14m7h 5m
Data source: Glasgow daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Glasgow

In Glasgow, the breezes of May bring an average wind speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), offering a gentle reprieve compared to the gustier months preceding it, particularly February's peak at 5.5 m/s (12 mph). As spring transitions towards summer, the wind tends to mellow, mirroring a dip seen in April where speeds fell to 2.8 m/s (6 mph). It's a month where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the refreshing atmosphere without the challenges of stronger winds, making May an ideal time to explore the city's vibrant parks and historic sites. Notably, the winds remain relatively consistent, with June following closely with the same average as May, indicating a stable, calm prelude to the warmer summer months ahead.

Average May Wind Speed in Glasgow

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Glasgow, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.35.54.42.83.1 m/s3.32.22.73.24.24.33.6
Data source: Glasgow May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Glasgow Compares to Other Months

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

May and January present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a pleasant 26°C (79°F) during the day, with an average of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences around 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over about 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January is cooler, with minimum temperatures dipping to -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of only 14°C (57°F), averaging 5°C (41°F). This winter month sees slightly more rain, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation also spread over 12 days, and a higher humidity of 90%. For more information on January weather specifically, you can refer to Glasgow weather in January.

In comparing the weather of May and February, it's clear that May offers a more pleasant climate overall. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), May is notably warmer than February, which experiences a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of only 5°C (41°F). Additionally, precipitation levels in February are higher, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 17 days, compared to May's 67 mm (2.6 in) over just 12 days. This results in higher humidity in February at 88%, compared to May's 80%. For more details on February's weather, you can visit Glasgow weather in February.

When comparing the weather in May and March, we see a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. May boasts milder conditions with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), while March has cooler temperatures, averaging 6°C (43°F) with a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Although May experiences less precipitation at 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, March sees significantly higher rainfall at 106 mm (4.2 in) across 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain slightly higher in March at 86%, compared to May's 80%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Glasgow weather in March.

In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a noticeable shift towards warmer temperatures in May. April boasts a maximum temperature of 22°C (72°F) with an average of 8°C (46°F) and a minimum of -3°C (26°F). In contrast, May raises the stakes with maximums reaching 26°C (79°F) and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in May at 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, compared to April’s 44 mm (1.7 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity remains fairly high in both months, with May at 80% and April slightly higher at 85%. For more details on April's weather, you can visit Glasgow weather in April.

When comparing the weather in May and June, notable differences emerge. May tends to have a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching up to 26°C (79°F), providing an average of 11°C (52°F). In contrast, June warms up significantly, with minimum temperatures at 6°C (43°F) and maximum temperatures climbing to 29°C (84°F), yielding an average of 14°C (57°F). However, June experiences increased precipitation, with 113 mm (4.4 in) over 17 days compared to May's 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, while humidity slightly rises from 80% in May to 83% in June. For a detailed look at what to expect, visit Glasgow weather in June.

May and July present distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). Rainfall during this month totals 67 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July warms up, characterized by a minimum temperature of 6°C (43°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). July also sees increased precipitation, with 98 mm (3.8 in) falling over 15 days and humidity slightly higher at 82%. For more details on July weather, visit Glasgow weather in July.

May and August present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). This month experiences about 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over roughly 12 days, with humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, August offers mild temperatures that start at a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and peak at 27°C (80°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). However, it is notably wetter, receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) of rain over 19 days, and maintaining slightly higher humidity at 82%. For more detailed information, check Glasgow weather in August.

In May, Glasgow experiences a range of temperatures, with minimums dropping to -1°C (31°F) and averaging around 11°C (52°F), while the maximum reaches up to 26°C (79°F). This month typically sees 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over about 12 days, coupled with a humidity level of 80%.

In contrast, September sees slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums around 1°C (33°F) and average highs of 27°C (80°F), averaging at 13°C (55°F). Rainfall increases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days and humidity rises to 88%. For more details on the weather during this month, you can check Glasgow weather in September.

May and October exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. May typically sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a pleasant 26°C (79°F). In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). Additionally, October is much wetter, receiving 130 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 19 days compared to May's 67 mm (2.6 in) across 12 days. The humidity also rises in October to 90%, compared to May's 80%. To learn more about the specifics of October weather, visit Glasgow weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month brings moderate rainfall, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days, and averages a humidity level of 80%. In stark contrast, November sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of just 7°C (45°F), reaching a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month is noticeably wetter, experiencing precipitation of 105 mm (4.1 in) across 17 days, while humidity rises to 92%. For more detailed insights, you can check Glasgow weather in November.

May and December present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average temperature of about 11°C (52°F). The month experiences approximately 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over around 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. Conversely, December is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of just 5°C (41°F). It sees higher precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) spread across 17 days, and a slightly higher humidity of 89%. For more information, you can check Glasgow weather in December.

Compare Glasgow's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Glasgow

As May unfolds in Glasgow, it brings a noticeable shift in the weather compared to the chillier months of spring. With temperatures rising to a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F), residents and visitors can finally enjoy more outdoor activities, albeit while being mindful of the occasional rain, as this month typically sees around 12 days of precipitation. The high humidity of 80% adds a touch of warmth, though it can make the air feel heavier. This month's weather paves the way for brighter and sunnier days ahead, making it a delightful transition into summer. For a deeper dive into Glasgow's weather patterns throughout the year, explore Glasgow Climate.