Climate and monthly weather forecastLilongwe, Malawi

The climate of Lilongwe

Located in Malawi, Lilongwe sports a Humid subtropical climate, fitting the Köppen climate classification as Cwa. This climate is defined by significant temperature variations throughout the year, coupled with distinctive wet and dry seasons. The city experiences warm temperatures year-round, with temperatures rising from a low of approximately 10.9°C (51.6°F) in the heart of winter to a high in the vicinity of 30.6°C (87.1°F) during the height of summer.

An examination of the distribution of rainfall across the year reveals a marked contrast between the dry winter months and the considerably humid summer season. Barely 2mm (0.08") of rain is endured from June to August, contrasting sharply with abundant showers of over 200mm (7.87") in each of the opening months of the year, January and February. The relative humidity also follows this pattern, dipping to a minimum of 51% in August before it climbs back up to reach a peak of 86% in February.

The city has no shortage of sunny days either, boasting an average of over 7 hours of sunshine per day, reaching a peak of almost 10 hours in October. Furthermore, The wind speed fluctuates moderately throughout the year, ranging from 6.2km/h (3.9mph) to 11.9km/h (7.4mph), with the windiest months being September and October.

The best time to visit Lilongwe

For visitors who prefer warmer temperatures coupled with less rainfall, the period between September and December might be the most enjoyable. During these months, the city experiences less precipitation, with the rain volume ranging from 1mm (0.04") to 12mm (0.47"). The temperatures are relatively high, with highs fluctuating between 26.2°C (79.2°F) and 30.6°C (87.1°F), offering an inviting climate for outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Lilongwe

An extended stay in Lilongwe during the initial months of the year might not be the most pleasant experience for those not enamored with heavy rainfall. January and February are the wettest months, each recording over 200mm (7.87") of rain. Moreover, the high relative humidity of 84% to 86% can render the atmosphere uncomfortably muggy.

Spring weather in Lilongwe

Spring descends on Lilongwe in September, October, and November, bringing high temperatures in the range of 26.2°C (79.2°F) to 30.6°C (87.1°F). The city also witnesses an expansion in daylight hours from 11.7 hours to 12.8 hours in November. The rainfall is minimal during these months, contributing to a drier climate.

Summer weather in Lilongwe

The summer months in Lilongwe run from December through February and are characterized by the warmest temperatures and high levels of rainfall. Temperatures scale to a high of 25.8°C (78.4°F) in December and ascend further to 30.6°C (87.1°F) in February. The precipitation also hits its zenith during this period, with January and February getting drenched with over 200mm (7.87") of rainfall.

Autumn weather in Lilongwe

March, April, and May constitute the autumn months in Lilongwe, featuring cooler temperatures that vary between 23.8°C (74.8°F) and 25.8°C (78.4°F). The rainfall dwindles significantly during this period, descending from a steep 129mm (5.08") in March to a mere 10mm (0.39") in May. Consequently, the city's relative humidity drops to 74% from 85%.

Winter weather in Lilongwe

Winter sweeps over Lilongwe in June, July, and August, providing respite from the year-round warm temperatures. The temperatures during these months are the lowest, dipping to a mild 10.9°C (51.6°F). Additionally, a characteristic feature of winter in Lilongwe is the scant rainfall, which barely exceeds 2mm (0.08"), making it the driest season.

Weather in January

In January, Lilongwe, Malawi, experiences a subtropical climate, full of warmth, humidity, and rain. This weather pattern directly follows December's similar conditions, marking a clear consistency in the weather patterns of the region. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Lilongwe experiences similar climatic conditions in February as the previous month, with the city staying humid and rainy. Moving from January to February, the region does not see a significant shift in weather parameters. Although rainfall drops slightly to 205mm (8.07"), the slightly lower temperatures and relatively stable pressure make for a pleasant month. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Step into March, and Lilongwe's climate starts to show signs of moderating rainfall and humidity. The change in weather characteristics from February is evident with March being significantly drier and less humid. Sunlight hours increase, and temperatures remain moderately warm, hinting at the upcoming changes in atmospheric phenomena. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Lilongwe is marked by a significant drop in rainfall, humidity, and cloud cover. This shift is a welcome respite from the preceding rainy months. The sun shines longer, the days are warmer, and the pressure starts to rise, heralding the onset of the drier months. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May witnesses an appreciable variation of weather phenomena in Lilongwe. With more sunshine hours and less cloud cover than April, the city gears up to embrace the dry season. The weather maintains the warmth yet takes a drier turn, leaving the heavy rainfall months of the year behind. Weather in May »

Weather in June

The weather in Lilongwe in June stands out for its lower temperature range and limited rainfall. It doesn't deviate too much from the conditions in May, although it gets a bit colder as the months progress. Sunlight hours remain quite consistent, and the wind speed picks up a tad, providing a cooler breeze. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July, much like June, is characterized by very dry conditions in Lilongwe. The absence of rainfall, relatively cooler temperatures, and longer hours of sunshine define this month. There isn't much deviation weather-wise if you compare July to the preceding month. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Lilongwe in August experiences an increase in temperature and minimal rainfall. Continuing from the dry spell in July, August sees slight warming but stays within comfortable limits. The city enjoys its longest sunshine hours, making outdoor activities a joy for residents and visitors. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Lilongwe comes with an increase in temperature, preparing for a bit of warmth in the coming months. There's no remarkable change in weather conditions compared to August, as the city remains quite warm and arid. The occurrence of rainfall remains pretty low, enhancing the heat of the day. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Weather in October in Lilongwe takes a noticeable turn from the drier months. The arrival of October brings with it the first signs of the rainy season. The arising weather signs are visible with a bit of an increase in humidity and cloud cover compared to the month of September. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Lilongwe signifies the preparation for the arrival of the rainy season. There's a noticeable change from the weather conditions of October, with more rainfall, increased cloud cover, and higher humidity levels. The mercury stays pleasant, and the wind doesn't change much in speed. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Lilongwe welcomes the onset of the wet season. Following the trend of November, December carries forward the increase in rainfall, humidity, and cloud cover. Atmospherically, it feels more refreshing as the temperature soars and the city receives an ample amount of rain. Weather in December »