Weather in Ireland in May

In May, Ireland experiences mild temperatures, regional rainfall, moderate winds, and extended daylight hours, characteristic of its late spring season.

Overview of the Weather in Ireland in May

• Temperature: Average daily temperatures range from lows of 7°C (45°F) to highs of 15°C (59°F).
• Rainfall: Varies by region; for example, Dublin averages 61 mm (2.4 inches) over 10 days, while Galway sees about 79 mm (3.1 inches) over 16 days.
• Wind Speed: May experiences moderate winds, with average speeds around 20 km/h (12 mph).
• Daylight Hours: Approximately 16 to 17 hours per day; sunrise around 5:15 AM, sunset near 9:45 PM.

Temperature

May signifies the transition to warmer conditions in Ireland, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 15°C (59°F). Coastal areas, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, tend to be milder, while inland regions may experience slightly warmer daytime temperatures.

Rainfall

Rainfall varies across Ireland in May. Eastern regions like Dublin receive about 61 mm (2.4 inches) over 10 days, making them relatively drier. In contrast, western areas such as Galway experience higher rainfall, averaging 79 mm (3.1 inches) over 16 days during the month.

Wind Speed

May experiences moderate winds, with average speeds around 20 km/h (12 mph). Coastal regions, especially along the west, may experience stronger gusts due to Atlantic weather systems.

Daylight Hours

Daylight extends significantly in May, with approximately 16 to 17 hours of light daily. The sun typically rises around 5:15 AM and sets near 9:45 PM, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities.

Ireland vs Northern Ireland Weather in May 2025

While both regions share similar climates, subtle differences exist:

• Temperature: Northern Ireland’s average temperatures are slightly lower, with daily averages around 10°C (50°F), compared to Ireland’s average of 11°C (52°F).
• Rainfall: Northern Ireland experiences marginally higher rainfall, averaging 70 mm (2.8 inches) in May, compared to Dublin’s 61 mm (2.4 inches).
• Wind: Both regions experience moderate winds in May, with coastal areas experiencing higher gusts.
• Daylight: Daylight hours are similar, with both regions experiencing about 16 to 17 hours of daylight during May.

In summary, while Ireland and Northern Ireland share comparable May weather patterns, Northern Ireland tends to be slightly cooler and wetter.