Last updated: March 17, 2025
May in Cardiff, United Kingdom, unveils a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 24°C (76°F). During this month, the average temperature hovers around 12°C (54°F), while the mercury dips to a minimum of 2°C (35°F) on cooler nights. While the city experiences a moderate level of precipitation, totaling 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, humidity remains relatively high at 80%, adding a refreshing touch to the atmosphere. May's blend of warmth and moisture creates an enchanting backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration in this vibrant capital city.
In May, Cardiff begins to shake off the remnants of winter, with temperatures that show a notable warming trend. The minimum temperature rises to a comfortable 2°C (35°F), while the average climbs to 12°C (54°F), and daytime peaks can reach up to a delightful 24°C (76°F). This month marks a significant shift from the chilly beginnings of the year, illustrating Cardiff's transition into late spring. The increasing warmth not only invites outdoor exploration but also promotes a vibrant atmosphere, as the city blossoms with life and activity, making May an ideal time to experience the beauty of Cardiff.
In May, Cardiff experiences a moderate level of precipitation, with 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain spread over approximately 12 days. This marks a slight increase from the drier month of April, which recorded only 57 mm (2.2 in), but remains lower than the heavier downpours typical of the later summer months. As spring unfolds, May's rainfall contributes to the blooming scenery, creating a vibrant backdrop as the city transitions towards the wetter and more unstable weather of June and July. Overall, May strikes a balance, offering a mix of showery days while still allowing for plenty of sunshine, making it a delightful time in Cardiff.
In May, Cardiff experiences a notable shift as humidity levels drop to 80%, marking a gradual transition towards the drier months of summer. This reduction follows a steady decline from 88% in January, revealing a trend of decreasing humidity as spring unfolds. As the year progresses, Cardiff's humidity tends to stabilize at around 80% in June before dipping further in the hotter months of July and August. The fluctuation in humidity levels throughout the year highlights Cardiff's maritime climate, where the spring brings a refreshing change, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration.
As spring transitions into summer, May marks a significant jump in UV Index levels in Cardiff, United Kingdom, reaching 7—a clear indication of high exposure risk and a notable shift from the milder winter months. With a burn time of just 25 minutes, it’s essential to be vigilant about sun protection as the days grow longer and sunnier. This trend continues as June and July see even higher UV readings of 8, categorizing them as very high. Therefore, being proactive about skin safety becomes increasingly crucial, especially as outdoor activities rise. Don’t forget to check the latest updates on UV levels to stay protected! For more details, visit Cardiff UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As spring blossoms into summer, May emerges as a standout month in Cardiff, boasting an impressive 379 hours of sunshine. This vibrant uptick follows a steady increase from the 303 hours in April, signaling the city's transition into brighter days. Compared to the earlier months of the year, where sunlight was scarce—with only 81 hours in January—May’s radiant days signify a significant leap toward summer's warmth. Following May, June and July continue to bask in sunlight, though slightly less intense, suggesting that while May might be the peak for sunny hours, the balmy spirit of Cardiff's summers remains vibrant throughout August and beyond. This trend highlights a delightful shift in the Welsh climate, inviting residents and visitors alike to soak in the sun's generous embrace.
As spring unfolds in Cardiff, May offers a mixed bag when it comes to sunny weather, presenting a 33% chance of sunshine. This marks a slight dip from the preceding month of April, which boasts a more promising 52% likelihood of bright days. Interestingly, while May is generally sunnier than the summer months of June and August, the number reflects a transitional phase where the lingering moisture of spring still competes with the warmth of approaching summer. It’s a time to enjoy the burgeoning greenery while keeping an eye on the skies, as Cardiff teeters between the charm of spring and the vibrancy of summer.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Cardiff heralds a significant increase in daylight, boasting an impressive 15 hours of sunshine each day. This seasonal shift follows a gradual ascent from just 8 hours in January, with daylight steadily blossoming through the months. By February, Cardiff enjoys 9 hours, which grows to 11 hours in March and 13 hours in April, illustrating a clear trend of longer, brighter days. The peak arrives in June and July, where daylight stretches to a full 16 hours, but May stands out as the month where the rejuvenation of spring is truly felt, illuminating the city's landscapes and inviting residents to relish the outdoors. As summer wanes, daylight hours begin their descent once more, first dipping to 14 hours in August, then tapering off to 12 hours in September, reminding us that the cycle of seasons continues its rhythmic dance.
As May arrives in Cardiff, the winds start to settle into a gentle rhythm, with an average speed of 4.7 m/s (10 mph). After a blustery February, which recorded the highest average wind speed of 5.7 m/s (13 mph), the trend shows a gradual decline as spring unfolds. April experiences a more subdued breeze at 3.7 m/s (8 mph), making May's winds feel a bit more invigorating as they pick up slightly. Comparatively, during the summer months, Cardiff typically enjoys even calmer conditions, with July averaging just 3.4 m/s (8 mph). This pattern suggests that while May offers a refreshing gustiness, it teeters on the brink of the milder, more serene months ahead, inviting residents and visitors alike to revel in the delicate balance of spring's breath amid the city's picturesque landscape.
The weather in Cardiff 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 Cardiff and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present notably different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (35°F) at night to a pleasant 24°C (76°F) during the day, averaging around 12°C (54°F). The month experiences 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with humidity at a moderate 80%. In contrast, January sees cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows dropping to -3°C (27°F) and daytime highs reaching only 13°C (56°F), averaging 6°C (42°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 75 mm (3.0 in) over the same number of days, but humidity is higher at 88%. For more detailed information, check out Cardiff weather in January.
May and February present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F) and can reach a maximum of 24°C (76°F). With an average precipitation of 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity is relatively high at 80%, but the overall atmosphere feels warmer and more inviting. In contrast, February experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), peaking at 15°C (60°F). The month sees increased rainfall, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 14 days, and higher humidity at 88%. For those looking for more details on February weather, you can check out Cardiff weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it is evident that May tends to be significantly warmer, with average temperatures soaring to 12°C (54°F) compared to March's cooler average of 7°C (45°F). During May, temperatures can even reach a maximum of 24°C (76°F), while March only sees highs of 18°C (65°F). However, March experiences slightly higher precipitation at 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, compared to May's 79 mm (3.1 in) across 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are moderately high in both months, with March recording 86% and May at 80%. For more detailed information on March weather, you can refer to Cardiff weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, we can see distinct shifts in temperature and precipitation. April experiences a minimum temperature of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), while May sees a milder minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). The maximum temperature also rises in May to 24°C (76°F), compared to April’s maximum of 20°C (69°F). In terms of precipitation, April has 57 mm (2.2 in) spread over 10 days, while May receives more rain at 79 mm (3.1 in) across 12 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with May at 80% and April slightly higher at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Cardiff weather in April.
May and June present a notable transition in weather as spring gives way to summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). The month experiences 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with humidity remaining high at 80%. In contrast, June brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 27°C (82°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). Although June sees a slight increase in precipitation to 84 mm (3.3 in) over the same number of days, the consistent humidity of 80% remains. For more detailed insights, you can check Cardiff weather in June.
May and July present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month also experiences significant precipitation, with 79 mm (3.1 in) falling over 12 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 80%. In comparison, July sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum reaching 28°C (82°F). While July has slightly more precipitation at 85 mm (3.3 in) across the same number of days, it enjoys lower humidity at 70%, resulting in a more comfortable summer atmosphere. For a detailed look at July weather in Cardiff, check out Cardiff weather in July.
In May, the weather in Cardiff experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F). The month sees significant rainfall, totaling 79 mm (3.1 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, August brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). August also experiences a slight increase in precipitation, with 97 mm (3.8 in) over 13 days, but the humidity drops to 73%. For a more detailed look at Cardiff's August weather, you can check Cardiff weather in August.
May and September exhibit notable differences and similarities in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). The month sees about 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days and maintains a high humidity level of 80%. Conversely, September brings slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (81°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). The precipitation in September is comparable at 81 mm (3.2 in) over the same number of days (12), accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 79%. For more specific insights, check out Cardiff weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar average temperatures, each hovering around 12°C (54°F), but they differ significantly in other aspects. In May, temperatures can reach a comfortable maximum of 24°C (76°F), while in October, the highs are generally cooler at 21°C (70°F). Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, with 135 mm (5.3 in) falling over 16 days compared to May's 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days. The increased humidity in October, at 89% compared to May’s 80%, also contributes to a distinctly different feel. For more details on temperatures and conditions, check out Cardiff weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F) and relatively moderate humidity at 80%. The month sees about 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from -1°C (30°F) to a high of 16°C (61°F), with a lower average of 9°C (48°F) and increased humidity at 90%. This month also sees higher precipitation levels of 99 mm (3.9 in) over about 15 days. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can check out Cardiff weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 2°C (35°F) at night to a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F) during the day. The month sees an average precipitation of 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, with humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, December offers a chillier climate, with temperatures dipping as low as -4°C (26°F) and averaging 7°C (45°F), while the daytime highs reach only 13°C (56°F). It experiences more rainfall, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over 17 days, and higher humidity at 89%. To explore more about December weather specifics, visit Cardiff weather in December.
As May unfolds in Cardiff, the weather brings a delightful shift from the lingering chill of winter to more mild and enjoyable temperatures. With daily averages climbing and maximums reaching a pleasant 24°C (76°F), outdoor activities become increasingly inviting. Though the month sees approximately 12 days of precipitation, the overall humidity remains a comfortable 80%, creating an atmosphere that perfectly cultivates the city’s blooming landscapes. This balance between warm days and refreshing showers distinguishes May from the cooler, wetter months that precede it, offering a vibrant precursor to summer. For more details on seasonal variations, visit Cardiff Climate.