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Contents
- The climate of Lagos
- The best time to visit Lagos
- The worst time to visit Lagos
- Spring weather in Lagos
- Summer weather in Lagos
- Autumn weather in Lagos
- Winter weather in Lagos
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
A lit city building in Lagos, Nigeria, with other city structures, seen from River Niger
The climate of Lagos
Lagos boasts a tropical climate, specifically a wet and dry savannah environment, as per the Köppen climate classification. This vibrant city is positioned close to the equator and is graced by the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. As such, Lagos experiences high temperatures throughout the year, coupled with a definable dual wet and dry season.
Examining the climatic patterns throughout the year, Lagos is largely characterized by warm to high temperatures. The hottest months occur around February and March, with temperatures peaking at around 33.1°C (91.6°F) and 32.7°C (90.9°F) respectively. In contrast, the coolest month of July hosts an average high of 28.1°C (82.6°F). At the lower end of the spectrum, the temperatures range from a lower limit of 22.1°C (71.8°F) in July and August, reaching up to 23.8°C (74.8°F) in March.
Lagos encounters a significant rainfall variance across the year. Rainfall is at a minimum during January with 14mm (0.55") precipitation recorded, followed by a stepwise increase upto May, marking the start of the rainy season. Downpours are the heaviest in June and July, accumulating up to 312mm (12.28") and 257mm (10.12") respectively, followed by a gradual decrease in the subsequent months reaching back to 19mm (0.75") by December.
Notably, Lagos experiences equatorial daylight consistency, with average daylight hours fluctuating slightly between 11.8 to 12.5 hours throughout the year. Sunshine hours also vary through the year, reduced to 3.2 hours in July and increasing to 6.2 hours in November and December.
The best time to visit Lagos
Looking at the weather patterns throughout the year, the best period to visit Lagos would entail the months following the rainy season, specifically from November to January. During this time, rainfall is relatively low, averaging below 55mm (2.17"), resulting in dryer conditions suitable for outdoor activities. The temperatures remain warm, along with a decent amount of sunshine, averaging around 6.2 hours daily.
The worst time to visit Lagos
The least comfortable period to visit Lagos happens to be during the peak of the rainy season in June. During this month, Lagos receives its highest quantity of rainfall, amassing 312mm (12.28") over an average of 16.2 days. Not only is the city prone to flooding during these periods, but the heavy rainfall combined with moderate sunshine of about 3.8 hours daily could hinder outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Lagos
In the context of Lagos, the months of March, April, and May are typically labeled as spring months, although the concept of spring as known in temperate climates is absent in tropical regions. During this time frame, Lagos experiences a gradual increase in rainfall from 42mm (1.65") in March to 205mm (8.07") in May, indicating the onset of the rainy season. Correspondingly, the temperatures range from 32.7°C (90.9°F) to 30.9°C (87.6°F) at the higher end and 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 23.1°C (73.6°F) at the lower end.
Summer weather in Lagos
Considered the heart of the rainy season, June, July, and August in Lagos are characterized by the heaviest rainfall. Precipitation during these months ranges from 312mm (12.28") in June, decreasing to 112mm (4.41") in August. The summer temperatures generally cool down, with a high between 29.2°C (84.6°F) and 28.1°C (82.6°F) and a low diverging from 22.6°C (72.7°F) to 21.7°C (71.1°F).
Autumn weather in Lagos
The period from September to November, labeled as autumn months, depicts a decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperatures. Average rainfall fluctuates from 167mm (6.57") in September down to 54mm (2.13") in November as the rainy season tapers off. Concurrently, the temperatures escalate up to an average high of 31°C (87.8°F) from the chilling temperatures of the rainy season.
Winter weather in Lagos
Winter, transitioning from December through February in Lagos, is marked by the lowest rainfall volumes of 19mm (0.75") in December, escalating to 42mm (1.65") in February. Correspondingly, temperatures fluctuate from a high of 31.9°C (89.4°F) to 33.1°C (91.6°F), signifying the hottest time of the year. Sunshine hours increase to approximately 6.2 hours daily, providing excellent conditions for outdoor activities. For those looking for warmth and a break from colder climates, Lagos offers a winter getaway with its tropical, warm winter.
Weather in January
January weather in Lagos, Nigeria reveals steady daytime temperatures with slightly cooler nights. Sunshine is ample to enjoy outdoor activities during this month being one of the dryer periods of the year. The sea conditions also remain inviting, favoring beach visits. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Moving into the month of February, Lagos experiences a mild increase in temperatures. Evening coolness persists but it is not chilly, rendering the weather pleasant overall. Rainfall amounts surge from the previous month, however, the total precipitation remains moderate. Weather in February »
Weather in March
In March, Lagos witnesses another slight increment in temperature. The city experiences a surge in precipitation from the previous month, marking the transition to the wetter part of the year. Evenings remain comfortable, while daylight hours extend, allowing more time for sightseeing. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a significant shift in Lagos' weather patterns towards a more moist climate. Although the temperature remains almost constant, rainfall begins to intensify. This climatic condition might limit outdoor activities. The sea remains warm and inviting despite the surge in precipitation. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May comes with heavy rain in Lagos, indicating a full immersion in the rainy season. Temperature and daylight time appear stable, maintaining the trend from the month of April. The rainfall, despite its increase, does not considerably affect the amount of sunshine in the city. Weather in May »
Weather in June
As we delve further into the middle of the year, June ushers in further increase in precipitation. The sea temperatures start to fall as compared to the month of May. The daylight duration remains the same allowing ample time for indoor and covered activities. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Coming to the month of July, Lagos experiences a marginal decrease in temperatures. Rainfall drops compared to June but remains prevalent with frequent showers. Despite the showers, the amount of sunshine received remains significant. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Lagos sees a further reduction in temperatures and a noticeable decrease in rainfall. Outdoor activities return to the agenda as the rainfall dips from the levels of preceding months. Sea temperatures achieve the lowest annual level, yet remain warm enough for swimming. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September comes with a slight rise in temperature, a trend that continues into the ensuing months. Rainfall maintains a moderate level similar to August, marking an end to the primary rainy season. Sunshine hours start gaining ground, creating more time for outdoor exploration. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Lagos sees an increase in temperature, initiating the trend towards hotter months ahead. Rainfall decreases significantly from the past months. Despite the reduction in rainfall, the amount of sunlight received does not significantly change. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November marks the beginning of the dry season in Lagos, Nigeria with a prominent reduction in precipitation. Temperatures rise slightly, yet nights remain comfortably cool. The city receives more sunshine hours than in previous months. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December continues the comfortable weather in Lagos, maintaining the dry conditions from November. Temperatures remain stable compared to the previous month, establishing enjoyable weather for all. This dry and sunny weather creates ideal conditions for outdoor exploration and other activities. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 2, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources |
Frequently asked questions
What is the driest month in Lagos?
The month with the least rainfall in Lagos, Nigeria, is January, when the rain falls for 1.5 days and typically collects 14mm (0.55") of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Lagos?
Throughout the year, in Lagos, Nigeria, there are 102.8 rainfall days, and 1538mm (60.55") of precipitation is accumulated.
What is the hottest time of year in Lagos?
In Lagos, February is known for its average highest temperatures, reaching a high of 33.1°C (91.6°F) and a low of 23.5°C (74.3°F).
What are the months with the highest UV index in Lagos?
February through May, August through October, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index.
What month is the sea warmest in Lagos?
The month with the warmest seawater in Lagos, Nigeria, is May, with an average sea temperature of 29.2°C (84.6°F).
What is the rainiest month in Lagos?
The month with the most rainfall in Lagos is June, when the rain falls for 16.2 days and typically aggregates up to 312mm (12.28") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Lagos?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 12h and 30min of daylight.
What is the coldest month in Lagos?
The coldest period in Lagos, Nigeria, with an average high-temperature of 28.1°C (82.6°F), falls in July and August.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Lagos?
The month with the least sunshine is July, with an average of 3.2h of sunshine.
When is the sea coldest in Lagos?
August is the month with the coldest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 25.3°C (77.5°F).
What are the months with the most sunshine in Lagos?
November and December, with an average of 6.2h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.
What is the month with the shortest days in Lagos?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 48min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Lagos?
Lagos does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). WAT timezone is used over the entire year.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Lagos?
December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 10.
Average temperature
Lagos, Nigeria
- Average high temperature in January:
32.2°C - Average high temperature in February:
33.1°C - Average high temperature in March:
32.7°C - Average high temperature in April:
32.1°C - Average high temperature in May:
30.9°C - Average high temperature in June:
29.2°C
- Average high temperature in July:
28.1°C - Average high temperature in August:
28.1°C - Average high temperature in September:
28.9°C - Average high temperature in October:
30.4°C - Average high temperature in November:
31°C - Average high temperature in December:
31.9°C
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (33.1°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are July and August (28.1°C).
- Average low temperature in January:
22.3°C - Average low temperature in February:
23.5°C - Average low temperature in March:
23.8°C - Average low temperature in April:
23.6°C - Average low temperature in May:
23.1°C - Average low temperature in June:
22.6°C
- Average low temperature in July:
22.1°C - Average low temperature in August:
21.7°C - Average low temperature in September:
21.9°C - Average low temperature in October:
22.3°C - Average low temperature in November:
22.6°C - Average low temperature in December:
22.4°C
The month with the highest average low temperature is March (23.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is August (21.7°C).
Average rainfall
Lagos, Nigeria
- Average rainfall in January:
14.3mm - Average rainfall in February:
42mm - Average rainfall in March:
77.1mm - Average rainfall in April:
142.4mm - Average rainfall in May:
204.8mm - Average rainfall in June:
312.2mm
- Average rainfall in July:
256.9mm - Average rainfall in August:
112.4mm - Average rainfall in September:
167.1mm - Average rainfall in October:
135.8mm - Average rainfall in November:
54mm - Average rainfall in December:
19mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (312.2mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (14.3mm).
Average rainfall days
Lagos, Nigeria
- Average rainfall days in January:
1.5 days - Average rainfall days in February:
2.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
6.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
12.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
13.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
12.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
4.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
1.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (16.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is December (1.4 days).
Average sea temperature
Lagos, Nigeria
- Average sea temperature in January:
27.7°C - Average sea temperature in February:
28.3°C - Average sea temperature in March:
28.7°C - Average sea temperature in April:
28.9°C - Average sea temperature in May:
29.2°C - Average sea temperature in June:
28°C
- Average sea temperature in July:
26.3°C - Average sea temperature in August:
25.3°C - Average sea temperature in September:
25.8°C - Average sea temperature in October:
27.8°C - Average sea temperature in November:
28.8°C - Average sea temperature in December:
28.3°C
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is May (29.2°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is August (25.3°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Lagos, Nigeria
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
3h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
3h and 3min - Average sunshine in September:
3h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
6h and 1min
The months with the most sunshine are November and December (Average sunshine: 6h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 3h and 12min).
Average UV index
Lagos, Nigeria
- Average UV index in January:
11 - Average UV index in February:
12 - Average UV index in March:
12 - Average UV index in April:
12 - Average UV index in May:
12 - Average UV index in June:
11
- Average UV index in July:
11 - Average UV index in August:
12 - Average UV index in September:
12 - Average UV index in October:
12 - Average UV index in November:
11 - Average UV index in December:
10
The months with the highest UV index are February, March, April, May, August, September and October (UV index 12).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 10).
