Last updated: March 17, 2025
In Stornoway, United Kingdom, May offers a mild climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 24°C (75°F) and a refreshing average of 10°C (51°F). However, lingering chill is felt with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F). This month also brings a significant precipitation total of 73 mm (2.9 in) spread over 17 rainy days, contributing to the lush, vibrant landscapes the region is known for. With an average humidity of 83%, outdoor enthusiasts should prepare for the possibility of rain, making it essential to embrace the unpredictability of Stornoway’s early summer weather.
In May, Stornoway begins to bloom as the chill of winter fades away, welcoming milder temperatures that hint at the arrival of summer. With a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F), the days start to feel noticeably warmer. The maximum temperature can even reach a pleasant 24°C (75°F), making it one of the warmer months in the year. This dramatic shift not only showcases a significant increase from the cooler averages of the preceding months—where April's max peaked at 21°C (70°F)—but also sets the stage for even more inviting conditions in June. As spring unfolds, the transition encourages both locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities, soaking in the vibrant landscapes that characterize Stornoway during this beautiful time of year.
May in Stornoway, United Kingdom, brings 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 17 days, showcasing a moderate yet steady embrace of the region's wet climate. Although this marks a decrease from the wetter months of March and April, May's rainfall still contributes to the lush greenness characteristic of the Outer Hebrides. With a favorable balance of rainy days, it sets the stage for the transition into summer, as precipitation levels begin to taper off in June. Overall, May serves as a reminder of the region's capricious weather patterns, delivering just enough moisture to nourish growth without overwhelming the landscape.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Stornoway, United Kingdom welcomes a notable rise in humidity, reaching 83%. This slight increase from the consistent 80% in the preceding months signals the onset of a trend that sees humidity climb steadily through the warmer months. Following May, June and July bring even higher levels of humidity, peaking at 87%, reflecting Stornoway's maritime climate. The gradual increase in humidity not only influences the weather patterns but also enhances the lush, vibrant landscapes the region is known for, creating an atmosphere that's both refreshing and dynamic.
As May arrives in Stornoway, the UV Index reaches 5, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure risk. This marks a notable increase from the early months of the year, where values lingered at 1, categorized as low. As spring unfolds, residents and visitors should be mindful of a burn time of just 30 minutes when unprotected, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures. The trend throughout the year shows a steady rise in UV levels, peaking in the summer months, so it's essential to stay informed about the Stornoway UV Index to protect your skin effectively.
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May in Stornoway is a delightful transition into summer, showcasing 389 hours of sunshine that offer a stark contrast to the early months of the year. As the days lengthen from the mere 53 hours in January to a vibrant spring, there's a palpable sense of warmth in the air. This progressive increase, peaking in June with 398 hours, underscores the region's gradual emergence from winter's grip. Stornoway experiences a sunny extravaganza during these months, with May standing out as a particularly radiant gem. As summer unfolds, the sunshine remains ample, gradually tapering to 277 hours in September. This trajectory highlights the beautiful ebb and flow of light and warmth, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the enchanting longer days.
May in Stornoway, United Kingdom, presents a chance of sunny weather at 23%, which, while higher than the dismal 17% in March and slightly better than April's 35%, still reflects the region's overall penchant for cloudy skies. As spring unfolds, there is a notable dip in sunny days, particularly in the following months, with June and July dropping to 18% and 15%, respectively. This trend highlights the challenge of embracing bright days in Stornoway, as even late spring offers only a modest glimpse of sunshine compared to the lingering winter months. Overall, while May might bring a few more sunlit moments, it remains part of Stornoway's unpredictable weather tapestry, where the sun often plays hide and seek.
As spring gives way to summer in Stornoway, May emerges as a bright highlight in the seasonal rhythm, boasting 16 hours of daylight. This significant increase from April's 14 hours reflects the gradual expansion of daylight that begins in the early months of the year, with January starting at a mere 7 hours. The trend is striking, as daylight duration steadily climbs from 9 hours in February to a peak in June with an impressive 18 hours, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities and exploration. As the year progresses, the daylight hours begin to wane again, culminating in a return to shorter days by November, where daylight shrinks to just 7 hours. Thus, May stands out as a time of vibrant light, signalling the full embrace of the warmer months.
In Stornoway, May presents a gentle shift in the winds, with an average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph). This marks a slight decrease compared to the preceding months, aligning closely with the calmer April winds. Interestingly, May's breezes are reminiscent of the winter months, where January and April also registered similar speeds of 4.6 m/s. As the seasons transition towards summer, the winds begin to soften, contrasting sharply with the more vigorous gusts typical of late autumn and early winter. This trend suggests that while May offers a mild and pleasant atmosphere, the subsequent months will likely welcome a gradual increase in wind speed, shifting towards the more brisk conditions found in the fall.
The weather in Stornoway 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 Stornoway and find detailed weather information for every month.
In May, the weather warms up significantly, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), offering a pleasant mix of cool mornings and warm afternoons. The month experiences 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 17 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 83%. In contrast, January is colder, with average temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to 13°C (56°F), and it sees slightly more precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) over just 13 days, while maintaining a humidity level of 81%. For a closer look at January conditions, you can visit Stornoway weather in January.
May generally presents more favorable weather conditions compared to February, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F), and an average of 10°C (51°F). February, on the other hand, tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). While May experiences less precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 17 days, February sees slightly higher rainfall at 99 mm (3.9 in) across 16 days. Humidity is slightly higher in May at 83% compared to February's 80%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Stornoway weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, May generally offers milder temperatures, with an average of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum reaching 24°C (75°F), compared to March, which has an average of 7°C (44°F) and peaks at 16°C (60°F). While both months experience considerable precipitation, March sees a higher amount at 102 mm (4.0 in) over 19 days, compared to May's 73 mm (2.9 in) across 17 days. Humidity levels are relatively close, with March at 80% and May slightly higher at 83%. For a more detailed look at March weather specifics, you can check Stornoway weather in March.
May's weather shows a slight increase in overall warmth compared to April, with average temperatures rising from 8°C (47°F) in April to 10°C (51°F) in May. The maximum temperature also climbs higher, reaching up to 24°C (75°F) in May, compared to 21°C (70°F) in April. While precipitation is a bit higher in May at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 17 days, April records 63 mm (2.5 in) across 15 days, suggesting that May may experience slightly wetter conditions. Additionally, humidity levels rise modestly from 80% in April to 83% in May. For more specific details on April's weather, you can refer to Stornoway weather in April.
May and June in Stornoway showcase a gradual warming trend as spring transitions into summer. In May, temperatures range from a brisk minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average around 10°C (51°F). This month experiences about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 17 days, paired with a humidity level of 83%.
In contrast, June brings slightly warmer minimum temperatures at 4°C (39°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), although the maximum temperature remains similar at 23°C (75°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 70 mm (2.7 in) across 15 days, with humidity remaining high at 84%. For a more detailed view of June weather in Stornoway, visit Stornoway weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant average of 10°C (51°F), peaking at 24°C (75°F). With approximately 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 17 days and high humidity at 83%, May often feels cool and damp. In contrast, July experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). However, it also sees increased rainfall, with 89 mm (3.5 in) over 19 days, and slightly higher humidity at 87%. This shift highlights July as a warmer but wetter month compared to May. For more details, visit Stornoway weather in July.
In comparing the weather between May and August, May tends to showcase a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching up to 24°C (75°F), producing an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is moderate at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 17 days, while humidity levels sit around 83%. In contrast, August experiences milder temperatures, with minimums at 6°C (44°F) and maximums of 22°C (71°F), averaging 14°C (58°F). The month sees increased precipitation of 102 mm (4.0 in) over 20 days, along with slightly higher humidity at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check out Stornoway weather in August.
May and September present contrasting weather patterns, with May experiencing a broader temperature range, from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). In contrast, September's temperatures are milder, with minimums around 1°C (35°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and maximums reaching 22°C (71°F). While May has a lower precipitation total of 73 mm (2.9 in) over 17 days, September sees increased rainfall, measuring 110 mm (4.3 in) across 19 days. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with September being slightly more humid at 87% compared to May's 83%. For more details, you can check the Stornoway weather in September.
May and October present contrasting yet somewhat similar weather patterns, each with its unique characteristics. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly low of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant high of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). The month sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 17 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, October has a cooler temperature range, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging similarly at 10°C (51°F). However, October experiences increased precipitation at 128 mm (5.0 in) over around 20 days, with humidity slightly rising to 86%. For more detailed information, visit Stornoway weather in October.
In May, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a pleasant max of 24°C (75°F), averaging around 10°C (51°F). The month experiences moderate rainfall, with 73 mm (2.9 in) over 17 days and an average humidity of 83%. In contrast, November is cooler, with temperatures dipping slightly lower, featuring a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging 8°C (46°F). The precipitation increases to 106 mm (4.2 in), also over 17 days, and humidity rises slightly to 85%. For a deeper look at November conditions, you can refer to Stornoway weather in November.
In comparing May and December weather, May typically presents milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) with an average of 10°C (51°F). It experiences lower rainfall, averaging 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 17 days, and a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, December is noticeably cooler, with temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, averaging 98 mm (3.8 in) across 18 days and slightly lower humidity at 79%. For a more detailed look at December conditions, you can visit Stornoway weather in December.
As spring unfolds in Stornoway, May brings a refreshing shift in weather compared to the chill of earlier months. With warmer days averaging around 10°C and the possibility of reaching up to 24°C, residents and visitors alike can enjoy an increase in outdoor activities. However, the month is not free from rain, as 17 days of precipitation contribute to a relatively high humidity level of 83%. This blend of warmth and moisture sets the stage for vibrant landscapes and blooming flora, making May a delightful transition towards summer. For further insights into the weather dynamics throughout the year, explore our detailed page on Stornoway Climate.