The climate of Lima
Situated on the arid desert coast of
Peru,
Lima conforms to a BWh or a subtropical desert climate classification under the Köppen climate classification system. A unique blend of climatic influences impacts Lima's weather, ranging from oceanic currents to coastal geography resulting in a relatively moderate annual temperature range, interspersed with light rainfall predominantly in the cooler months.
Throughout the year, Lima experiences temperatures oscillating between highs of 24.8°C (76.6°F) and lows of 20°C (68°F). Seasonal variations in temperature are rather minimal. Nevertheless,
June through
September are noticeably cooler, with the mercury dipping to an average low of 15.3°C (59.5°F) in
July. The city encounters its warmest periods from
December to
March where temperatures can reach up to 25.4°C (77.7°F).
Lima’s humidity levels fluctuate from 75% to 79% year-round, contributing to the city's characteristic coastal fog, locally known as garúa. The percentage of cloud-covered skies largely mirrors this trend, with December through
April being slightly cloudier. Annual atmospheric pressure remains relatively steady, with monthly averages hovering around the 1016 millibar mark.
Regarding precipitation, Lima is predominantly dry year-round with rainfall values scarcely escalating over 1mm (0.04") monthly. Instead of heavy rains, oftentimes the city experiences a fine drizzle or mist - known as ‘llovizna.’ The greatest number of rainfall days, albeit scarce, are realized from
February to March.
The best time to visit Lima
The optimal time for touring
Lima is likely to be between
December and
April. This period is characterized by a yearly maximum in temperature, creating a warm atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. These months additionally coincide with a high sunshine duration of between 10.2 hours and a peak of 12 hours a day in
October. Other indicators, such as minimal rainfall and low cloud coverage during this period, further endorse this notion.
The worst time to visit Lima
Visiting
Lima from
June through
September might prove challenging for some due to cooler temperatures and higher cloud coverage renders. The city is engulfed in a blanket of coastal fog known as garúa, affecting overall visibility. Lack of rainfall during these months may seem appealing. However, lower temperatures coupled with high humidity result in a constant heavy mist or drizzle which may prove inhibitive for outdoor exploration.
Spring weather in Lima
Spring in
Lima, encompassing
September through
November, introduces gradually warming temperatures from an average high of 20.5°C (68.9°F) to 23.1°C (73.6°F). Relative humidity during these months ranges from 75% to 77%, alluding to a rather damp atmosphere. It's also a period of steadily increasing daylight hours, starting from about 12 hours in September and culminating in around 12.7 hours in November.
Summer weather in Lima
Lima’s summer, from
December to
February, is regarded as the warmest season with temperatures reaching an average high of 25.4°C (77.7°F). Relative humidity levels peak at about 79%, highest throughout the year, contributing to the warm and moist maritime flavor of the season. Along with warmth, these months also come with prolonged hours of daylight, reaching up to 12.8 hours in December, placing summer on the ideal side of the tourism calendar.
Autumn weather in Lima
Autumn in
Lima, spanning from
March to
May, represents a gradual decline in temperatures, with average highs transitioning from 25.3°C (77.5°F) in March to 21.3°C (70.3°F) in May. Weather remains largely dry throughout this period with rainfall values not exceeding 1mm (0.04") monthly. Hours of sunshine also experience a decline in this season, moving from 11.9 hours daily in March to about 7.4 hours in May.
Winter weather in Lima
Winter in
Lima, extending from
June through
August, is characterized by cooler temperatures, with June-
September registering the season's lowest average high of 21.3°C (70.3°F) and an average low of 15.3°C (59.5°F). Despite the relative chilliness, winter receives minimal rainfall; however, high humidity levels often translate into a persistent heavy mist or drizzle. Reduced daily sun exposure, reaching a yearly low of 7.4 hours in June, coupled with increased cloud coverage, paints a rather grey and dreary picture of Lima during this season.
Weather in January
As a new year begins,
Lima,
Peru greets it with moderate weather conditions. Daily sunshine averages 25.6 days, beaming bright for visitors. Though high humidity of 78% might pose a slight discomfort, it does not detract from the overall pleasant conditions.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
January gives birth to
February, a slight increase in temperature is noticed in
Lima. Though rainfall rises to 4mm (0.16"), it falls under acceptable levels and maintains the city's comfortable climate. Daylight hours reduce slightly, but the sunshine persists, illuminating city life.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March sees a continuation of
February's patterns in
Lima with trivial variations in weather conditions. The end of the summer season approaches but does not cause significant disruptions in the city's climate. Sea temperatures average at 20.9°C (69.6°F), providing opportunities for beach visits and water activities.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Come
April, and
Lima's climatic dynamics begin to change. As the temperature starts to dip, evenings in the city become cooler. From environmental aspects, pressure conditions remain stable at 1014.9mb, maintaining a balanced atmospheric state.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May brings in more signs of changing seasons in
Lima, moving towards cooler temperatures. The city witnesses a drop in sunshine hours to 7.6h, hinting at the onset of shorter days. Rainfall levels drop to an annual low, with a total of no precipitation recorded.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June is characterized by a notable drop in temperatures in
Lima, signaling the peak of the coastal winter. The sea temperature drops to 18.2°C (64.8°F), making beach visits less popular. Matched with a relative humidity of 78%, the winter chill marks its firm presence.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July stands as the coldest month in
Lima, with the lowest average temperature of 20.6°C (69.1°F). Despite the cold temperatures, the sun continues to shine and adds to nearly 30 days of sunshine. Cloud cover reduces to 13%, portraying clearer skies, and wind gust speed increases to 17.4kpH.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Lima's weather begins to shift towards an end to the winter season. While the cold weather persists, a considerable increase in sunshine hours adds warmth to the city. The air pressure continues to stay constant at 1016.4mb, maintaining steady atmospheric conditions.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September signals the onset of spring in
Lima with a fluctuation in temperatures. The days start to lengthen and the city enjoys an average of 12h of daylight. The pressure drops slightly to 1016.1mb, bringing cooler winds from the sea.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings about pleasant weather conditions in
Lima with an increase in temperatures. Given the rise in daylight hours to 12.4h and temperatures elevating, signs of incoming summer start to appear. The wind speed sees a decrease and gust speed declines to 16.7kpH.
Weather in October » Weather in November
As
November arrives in
Lima, the temperature continues to rise gradually. The sea temperature climbs to 17.8°C (64°F), paving the way for beach-goers to start enjoying water activities. Nearly 30 days of sunlight grace the city, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December marks the return of summer to
Lima with the highest average temperature of 23.1°C (73.6°F). Increased humidity of 79% adds a touch of warmth to the city's climate. Daylight stretches out over the month, peaking at 12.8h, making December one of the brightest months.
Weather in December » [Resources]