Southern England experienced a notably wetter and cooler May compared to its long-term average, with rainfall totals significantly exceeding expectations. According to data released by the Met Office, the region received 155% of its average May rainfall for the period 1991-2020. This translates to substantial precipitation across counties from Cornwall to Kent, marking a stark contrast to the previous year's record-breaking warmth.
The mean temperature across Southern England for May 2024 was recorded at 1.3 °C below the 1991-2020 average. This cooler trend, coupled with the increased rainfall, contributed to a distinct shift in weather patterns for the region. While temperatures across the UK as a whole were slightly above average, Southern England stood out with its cooler conditions. The Met Office highlights that the wettest single day recorded in England during May saw a significant 68.8 mm of rain fall at Otterbourne, Hampshire, on the 10th of the month, demonstrating the intensity of some of the downpours.
Beyond just rainfall and temperature, sunshine hours for Southern England were also below average for May. This combination of less sun, lower temperatures, and higher precipitation would have had a noticeable impact on daily life, from outdoor leisure activities being curtailed to potential implications for agriculture and gardening. The persistent damp and cool conditions would have made for a less typical spring feel across the south.
For context, the UK as a whole experienced its twelfth warmest May on record, with Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales all recording above-average temperatures. However, Southern England's distinct cool and wet spell demonstrates the regional variations often seen within national weather patterns. This regional anomaly provides a useful reminder that overall national statistics can sometimes mask very different local experiences.
The Met Office's analysis underscores the variability of British weather, even within a single month. While the UK had its warmest May on record in 2023, this year presented a very different picture for the southern counties. Such variations can influence everything from crop yields to energy consumption and the timing of seasonal events across the country.