Climate and monthly weather forecastLalibela, Ethiopia

The climate of Lalibela

Defined by the Köppen climate classification as Cwb, Lalibela, Ethiopia resides in a temperate highland tropical climate zone with dry winters. This diverse city experiences a distinct range of weather patterns. Nestled in a high mountainous region, Lalibela is known for its significant variations in climate parameters throughout the annual cycle, lending to its unique weather patterns.

Throughout the year, temperatures vary slightly, with monthly average highs fluctuating from 20°C (68°F) to 24°C (75.2°F), and lows lingering from 5°C (41°F) to 10°C (50°F). The rainfall sees a marked difference as the year progresses. Precipitation ranges from a low 13mm (0.51") in January to an excessive 281mm (11.06") to 295mm (11.61") in July and August, reflecting a dramatic shift in moisture levels. Further emphasizing this variety, rainfall days fluctuate from 3, in the dry months of January, February, and December, climbing to a peak of 13 in August.

Daylight hours show minimal variations, stretching between 11.4 hours in December to 12.8 hours in June and July. Similarly, sunshine hours oscillate from a minimum of 6 hours during July and August to a maximum of 9 hours in January, February, November, and December. Lalibela also boasts a consistently high UV index, maintaining a value of 12 from February through September and dropping slightly to 10 in December. The city’s climate is a unique melding of patterns, keeping inhabitants and visitors on their toes with the unceasing shift in weather elements.

The best time to visit Lalibela

Considering the varying weather conditions throughout the year, the optimal visiting time depends on individual preferences and desired activities. Those seeking warmer temperatures paired with lower rainfall and more sunshine hours may prefer the months of January and February. During this period, average high temperatures hover between 21°C (69.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F), rainfall averages drop to 13mm (0.51") to 28mm (1.1"), and sunshine hours peak at 9 hours a day, making these months ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The worst time to visit Lalibela

By contrast, the period extending from July to August can be an unfavorable time to visit Lalibela due to its excessive precipitation levels. These months record an enormous increase in rainfall, with monthly averages skyrocketing to 281mm (11.06") and 295mm (11.61"). The significant downpour is accompanied by a decrease in sunshine, with a daily average of just 6 hours. Despite the high temperatures that range from 21°C (69.8°F) to 24°C (75.2°F), the wet conditions could hamper outdoor activities and exploration.

Spring weather in Lalibela

Shifting to Lalibela's spring weather, the season is characterized by gradually warming temperatures and increasing rainfall. The months from March to May notice a slow increase in average high temperatures, from 23°C (73.4°F) in March to 24°C (75.2°F) in May. Accordingly, the average low temperatures elevate from 8°C (46.4°F) to 10°C (50°F). Meanwhile, precipitation rises dramatically from 55mm (2.17") in March to a significant 84mm (3.31") in May, with the number of rainy days also on the rise. Despite these increases, there still exists suitable availability of daylight and sunshine hours.

Summer weather in Lalibela

The summer season in Lalibela, running from June to August, is dominated by substantial rainfall. In comparison to spring, the summer sees an exponential increase in the monthly rain averages, climbing from 73mm (2.87") in June to lofty heights of 295mm (11.61") in August. Accompanying this, the frequency of rainfall days increases, making it the wettest season in Lalibela. Temperature highs and lows show minimal change during the summer, maintaining average values of 24°C (75.2°F) and 10°C (50°F) respectively. Despite the saturation, daylight hours peak at 12.8 hours, showcasing the longest days of the year in this season.

Autumn weather in Lalibela

Autumn, extending from September to November, induces a downward slide in precipitation. From the 128mm (5.04") of rain in September, the averages dip dramatically to 51mm (2.01") by November. Average high temperatures drop to 21°C (69.8°F) in November from 24°C (75.2°F) in September, while average low temperatures vary between 9°C (48.2°F) and 7°C (44.6°F). With the retreat of heavy rainfall, the number of sunshine hours increases to 8 hours per day, delivering a relatively warm and pleasant environment.

Winter weather in Lalibela

Marking the end of the year, December ushers in the winter season with the lowest average temperatures and rainfall. High temperatures average at 21°C (69.8°F), while the average low temperatures reach 5°C (41°F), offering a relatively chilled environment. A significant decline in precipitation to just 21mm (0.83") and a mere 3 rainfall days make December one of the driest months in Lalibela.

Weather in January

The start of the year in Lalibela, Ethiopia, sees moderate temperatures. Visitors will find the surroundings comfortable with a reduction in the potential for sunburn as the UV index begins at 11. With an average rainfall of 13mm (0.51") and only three rainy days, January is the driest month, offering clear skies. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As the Ethiopian calendar turns its page to February, Lalibela experiences a slight increase in temperatures. The UV index rising to 12 denotes this month is not immune to the potential for sunburn. Praise be to those who appreciate precipitation, since February carries more rainfall, marking the onset of wetter months. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The pleasant climes continue in Lalibela, encompassing March with an escalation in the rainfall measure, now 55mm (2.17"). Around five days of the month may witness rain showers, enhancing the overall verdure of the landscape. The progressive month brings higher temperatures, making days warmer than those in February. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Lalibela welcomes April with relatively warmer days, setting the stage for the transition toward the warmer months. An increase in rainfall is noticeable, registering an average 83mm (3.27"). Despite the wet conditions, daylight extends marginally compared to March. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May presents itself with greater warmth in Lalibela, signaling an approach towards the hotter part of the year. On average, the city receives 84mm (3.31") of rainfall, maintaining the trends started in April. While the temperature shift becomes pronounced, the increase in precipitation breaks the monotony of the warm days. Weather in May »

Weather in June

The onset of June marks the continuation of the warm weather routine in Lalibela. The climate accentuates the temperature range from May, leading to hotter days. This change may instigate an increase in the use of sun protection, given a consistent UV index of 12. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Lalibela is characterized by the most substantial shift in precipitation. The city receives the highest average rainfall of 281mm (11.06"), marking the peak of the wet season. Corresponding to this upsurge, there are typically 11 days of rain in this month. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August carries on from the previous month's deviation into the rainiest period. It presents the highest rainfall experienced all year, averaging 295mm (11.61"), surpassing even July's recorded downpours. The 13 days of rain in August are usually exceeded only by the rainier July. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September brings a shift away from the peak monsoon,but is still left with significant rainfall, averaging 128mm (5.04"). A noticeable decrease in the levels of precipitation from August, marks the gradual departure of the wet season. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Moving ahead into October, Lalibela's weather conditions take a turn towards the drier side of the calendar. Rainfall amounts to a mere 51mm (2.01"), a drastic reduction from September. With this slight change, the temperatures remain relatively stable. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November, like a curtain call, heralds the almost complete withdrawal of rainfall with a drop to 28mm (1.1"). Following a similar path of dwindling precipitation from October, November features reduced showers. However, this time of year sees little to no drastic shifts in temperature. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Concluding the year in Lalibela, December progresses with the least rainfall; recording a minimal 21mm (0.83"). It brings a final stretch of drier weather with closely spaced temperatures. The pattern of reduced showers continues, making December one of the driest months of the year. Weather in December »