May weather forecast
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

May in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands is synonymous with the transition from autumn to the early onset of the Antarctic winter. Temperatures continue to drop, with averages fluctuating between -2°C (28.4°F) and 3°C (37.4°F). This decrease is a clear indication of the harsh winter weather conditions that are to follow.

In Grytviken, the trend of marginally warmer conditions persists due to the settlement's coastal location. However, the temperature difference becomes less pronounced as the overall island temperatures continue to drop.

Wind speeds during May remain high, with an average of 25km/h (15.5mph). Gusts can escalate during storms, reaching significantly higher speeds. These storm events continue to increase in frequency and intensity, heralding the stormy conditions typical of the upcoming winter months.

Precipitation levels remain high in May, with a marked shift towards snowfall due to the continued decrease in temperatures. Coastal areas may still experience some rain, but the overall trend is towards more consistent snowfall, particularly in the higher altitude areas, where accumulation becomes increasingly likely.

Wildlife activity reaches its annual low during May, with only the most resilient species remaining on the islands. Most bird and marine species have migrated away to seek warmer climates.

Compared to April, May is markedly colder and windier, with a greater prevalence of snow. As the islands transition into June and the heart of winter, these harsh conditions become even more pronounced, with further temperature decreases, increased wind speeds, and higher chances of significant snowfall.

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• South Georgia Island - May »
  Shifting into May, South Georgia Island records an average high-temperature of a freezing cold -0.5°C (31.1°F), presenting minor fluctuations compared to the previous month. May's arrival in South Georgia Island sets the stage for a colder, darker phase with a significant drop in temperature and sunlight.
• Grytviken - May »
  In Grytviken during May, the rain falls for 12.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 102mm (4.02") of precipitation. In Grytviken during the entire year, snow falls for 193 days and aggregates up to 3130mm (123.23") of snow.
• Stromness - May »
  In Stromness in May, it is raining for 12.3 days, with typically 102mm (4.02") of accumulated precipitation. On the first day of May in Stromness, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, sunrise is at 07:45 and sunset at 17:02.