May weather forecast
Antarctica

May in Antarctica marks the beginning of the long, dark winter season. Temperatures continue to drop dramatically with coastal areas experiencing frigid conditions between -20°C and -15°C. The interior of the continent becomes even colder, with temperatures dropping as low as -65°C.

Notable research stations such as McMurdo Station and the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station register lower temperatures. At McMurdo Station, temperatures generally hover around -20°C, whereas at the South Pole Station, the average temperature falls to -65°C.

During May, the sea ice continues to thicken and expand, almost completely sealing off the continent from conventional sea travel. Tourism during this period is virtually non-existent due to these harsh conditions.

The majority of wildlife has migrated away from Antarctica by May to escape the severe winter, with few exceptions. Emperor penguins, however, are just beginning their breeding cycle and are one of the few species that remain on the ice.

Compared to April, May is colder and darker, with the sun barely appearing above the horizon. Looking forward to June, Antarctica will continue to experience extremely cold temperatures and extended periods of darkness as it is immersed fully into the winter season.

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• Artigas Base - May »
  On the first day of May sunrise is at 23:47 and sunset at 07:58. February through October, with an average maximum UV index of 0, are months with the lowest UV index in Artigas Base, Antarctica.
• McMurdo - May »
  January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days in McMurdo. January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days in McMurdo.
• Snow Hill Island - May »
  The average temperature in Snow Hill Island during May nights dips to a polar cold -19°C. On the last day of May, in Snow Hill Island, sunrise is at 01:21 and sunset at 06:11 NZST.