Climate and monthly weather forecastAbuja, Nigeria
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Abuja
Positioned within the Tropical wet and dry area, as per the Koppen climate classification, Abuja, Nigeria has a predominately Aw climate. Throughout the year, temperatures range from a high of 39.9°C (103.8°F) to a low of 20.5°C (68.9°F), and encompass both the scorching heat of the tropical sun and the relief of cooler evenings. Variations in temperature are dictated by the annual cycle of the sun, with the hottest months being between February and April and the coolest months taking place from July to September.The relative humidity changes with seasons, peaking at 87% in August and going as low as 21% in January. Rainfall does not distribute evenly throughout the year. Between May and October, the city gathers an impressive rainfall of 702mm (27.64") over a span of 128 days. From November to April, however, Abuja reports an almost drought like condition with only 4mm (0.16") of rain over 2.6 days.
The number of sunshine hours is consistently high, ranging from 5.8 hours to 10 hours. However, the UV index ranges from a moderate 5 in August to a high 8 from March to April, indicating the need for sun protection during peak daylight hours. Another significant aspect of Abuja's climate is the cloud cover, which is noticeably higher between June and September, reaching a peak at 61% in August.
The Best Time to Visit Abuja
Visit Abuja during November and December for an optimal blend of favorable temperatures, low rainfall, and maximum sunshine. With an average high of 36.1°C (97°F) dipping to a low of 21.3°C (70.3°F) at night, the days are pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions. Rainfall is virtually nonexistent, making those months ideal for outdoor activities. The UV index is moderate, minimizing the risk of sunburn, while the hours of sunshine are at a yearly high, providing ample daylight for exploration.The Worst Time to Visit Abuja
The period between July and September marks the height of the rainy season in Abuja and may hinder outdoor activities. Persistent rains totaling 501mm (19.72") span over 78 days, while temperatures dip to an average low of 28.9°C (84°F). Despite the increase in relative humidity, sunshine hours reduce considerably, leading to overcast days.Spring Weather in Abuja
Abuja does not have a traditional spring given its tropical location, but March to May serve as a transition period from the dry to the rainy season. March is typically hot, with average temperatures peaking at 39.9°C (103.8°F) during the day and dropping to 24.7°C (76.5°F) during the cooler nights. April sees a rise in both rainfall and relative humidity, heralding the onset of the rainy season. By May, rain showers become a common sight with 123mm (4.84") of precipitation spread over 16.9 days.Summer Weather in Abuja
Abuja’s summer, which runs from June to August, aligns with its rainy season due to its tropical nature. Daily temperatures average from 35.3°C (95.5°F) to 28.4°C (83.1°F), while atmospheric pressure holds steady at around 1013mb. Increased cloud cover cuts down sunshine hours, though daylight remains ample at over 12 hours. Abuja experiences its highest rainfall during these months, accumulating a significant 446mm (17.56") across 69.5 days.Autumn Weather in Abuja
The period from September to November marks the end of the rainy season in Abuja. Temperatures remain warm, averaging from 35.7°C (96.3°F) in September, decreasing slightly to 32.4°C (90.3°F) by November. Rainfall reduces markedly, dwindling to just 59mm (2.32") across 16.7 days. Relative humidity, cloud cover, and pressure gradually decline, signaling the advent of the dry season.Winter Weather in Abuja
In contrast with colder climes, Abuja does not experience a conventional winter season. Nonetheless, December to February is generally drier and cooler, making it appealing to those seeking respite from wintry conditions elsewhere. Expect daytime temperatures to vary between 37.6°C (99.7°F) and 39.3°C (102.7°F), while night times cool off to between 20.5°C (68.9°F) and 22.4°C (72.3°F). These months receive hardly any rainfall, amounting to just 3mm (0.12") in 1.8 days, making them particularly suitable for outdoor activities.Weather in January
Beginning the year, January in Abuja, Nigeria, experiences less than half a day of daylight, specifically 11.7 hours. It's an inviting period to enjoy various activities with typically clear skies and tranquil wind conditions. The visibility remains excellent, offering unhindered views of the cityscapes. Weather in January »Weather in February
With February arrives slightly higher humidity compared to January. However, the region still receives ample sunshine of about 10 hours, ensuring outdoor activities remain unaffected. Despite the daytime heating, nights bring refreshing coolness, perfect for leisurely walks. Weather in February »Weather in March
In March, the city enters a transitional phase. The skies become a bit cloudier, leading to slightly reduced visibility compared to the previous months. This month provides the first significant increase in rainfall, denoting the onset of the rainy season. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Abuja, Nigeria, marks a shift in weather patterns. Relative humidity increases further, and rainfall becomes more frequent. In tandem, the cloud cover obscures the sun for longer durations, reducing sunshine hours. The influx of moisture is evident with rainfall tripling from March to 32mm (1.26"). Weather in April »Weather in May
By May, the rainy season is underway in full swing. The increased rainfall nourishes the city's flora, framing the city in a verdant hue. The hours of sunshine experience a dip, yet daylight remains ample for all kinds of activities. Weather in May »Weather in June
In June, Abuja sheds its previously clear skies for a cloudier outlook. The drop in UV index indicates a diverting shift towards cooler days. Despite the wind speed lowering slightly, the city's scenery remains vibrant and intact. The city experiences a dip in rainfall, amounting to 78mm (3.07") compared to May's high. Weather in June »Weather in July
With July, the weather patterns of Abuja enter a cooler phase. Despite this, the overall charm created by the cloud cover and the resultant scenic beauty remains intact. The frequency of rainy days reaches a peak during this month. A notable change in wind speed is observed as it tails off to around 5.9km/h (3.7mph). Weather in July »Weather in August
August prolongs the rainy season in Abuja, Nigeria. The high-pressure levels foster the formation of cloud cover, thus reducing the amount of sunlight reaching the city's surface. The city's topography shrouded in monsoon clouds is a sight to behold for nature enthusiasts. Weather in August »Weather in September
The return of the dry season from late September is celebrated with gusto in Abuja. The frequency of cloudy days decreases in comparison to the preceding months, and the amount of sunshine starts to increase. A gentle shift back to cooler nights is noticed, adding a touch of tranquility. Weather in September »Weather in October
In October, the city of Abuja basks in the sunlight, as rainy days subside. As the cloud cover lessens, the daylight hours increase. The periods of sunshine become longer, revitalizing the outdoor life in the city. A significant fall in rainfall is observed with 58mm (2.28") recorded, barely a third of the precipitation witnessed in September. Weather in October »Weather in November
November in Abuja symbolizes the return of the dry season. Rainfall dwindles drastically, paving the way for sunnier days. However, the transition to dry conditions doesn't affect the region's ambient pressure. The month stands out with the negligible precipitation of 1mm (0.04"), signaling the commencement of the dry season. Weather in November »Weather in December
December, concluding the year in Abuja, welcomes the most distinctive change in the weather conditions. The upswing in wind speed is accompanied by crisp cool nights. Pressure levels remain stable, maintaining the placid nature even amidst the changing weather conditions. Weather in December »Updated: Jan 25, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
With an average relative humidity of 21%, January is the least humid month in Abuja.
In Abuja, rain does not fall in January and December.
Throughout the year, in Abuja, Nigeria, there are 147.3 rainfall days, and 806mm (31.73") of precipitation is accumulated.
January, February, November and December, with an average of 10h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in Abuja.
February through November are months with rainfall.
February through April, with an average maximum UV index of 8, are months with the highest UV index in Abuja, Nigeria.
March is the month when Abuja, Nigeria, experiences its warmest temperatures, averaging a high of 39.9°C (103.8°F) and a low of 24.7°C (76.5°F).
With an average of 12h and 36min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
In Abuja, August is the month with the lowest recorded average temperatures, measuring a high of 28.4°C (83.1°F) and a low of 21.8°C (71.2°F).
The most humid month is August, with an average relative humidity of 87%.
The month with the most rainfall in Abuja, Nigeria, is August, when the rain falls for 26.4 days and typically aggregates up to 194mm (7.64") of precipitation.
August has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.8h of sunshine.
With an average maximum UV index of 5, August is the month with the lowest UV index in Abuja.
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 36min of daylight.
Abuja does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). WAT timezone is used throughout the entire year.
Average temperature
Abuja, Nigeria
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is March (39.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is August (28.4°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is April (25.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (20.5°C).
Average pressure
Abuja, Nigeria
- Average pressure in January:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in February:
1009.1mbar - Average pressure in March:
1008.6mbar - Average pressure in April:
1008.8mbar - Average pressure in May:
1010.5mbar - Average pressure in June:
1012.4mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1013mbar - Average pressure in August:
1012.9mbar - Average pressure in September:
1012.4mbar - Average pressure in October:
1011mbar - Average pressure in November:
1010.1mbar - Average pressure in December:
1010.9mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1013mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is March (1008.6mbar).
Average wind speed
Abuja, Nigeria
- Average wind speed in January:
7.6km/h - Average wind speed in February:
7.1km/h - Average wind speed in March:
6.6km/h - Average wind speed in April:
7.3km/h - Average wind speed in May:
6.8km/h - Average wind speed in June:
6.3km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
5.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
5.6km/h - Average wind speed in September:
5km/h - Average wind speed in October:
4.8km/h - Average wind speed in November:
5.2km/h - Average wind speed in December:
7.5km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (7.6km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is October (4.8km/h).
Average humidity
Abuja, Nigeria
The month with the highest relative humidity is August (87%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is January (21%).
Average rainfall
Abuja, Nigeria
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (194mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January and December (0mm).
Average rainfall days
Abuja, Nigeria
- Average rainfall days in January:
0.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
1.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
4.9 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
16.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
26.1 days - Average rainfall days in August:
26.4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
25.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
0.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
0 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (26.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is December (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Abuja, Nigeria
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 42min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 48min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 6min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 18min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 36min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 36min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 12min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 42min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 36min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 36min).
- Average sunshine in January:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 54min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 36min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 12min - Average sunshine in June:
8h and 6min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 18min - Average sunshine in August:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 18min - Average sunshine in October:
9h and 6min - Average sunshine in November:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
10h and 0min
The months with the most sunshine are January, February, November and December (Average sunshine: 10h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 5h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Abuja, Nigeria
- Average sunshine days in January:
30.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
25.5 days - Average sunshine days in March:
24.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16 days - Average sunshine days in May:
11.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
9.1 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
3.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
2.9 days - Average sunshine days in September:
2.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
12.6 days - Average sunshine days in November:
28.8 days - Average sunshine days in December:
31 days
The month with the most sunshine days is December (31 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is September (2.8 days).
Average UV index
Abuja, Nigeria
The months with the highest UV index are February, March and April (UV index 8).
The month with the lowest UV index is August (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Abuja, Nigeria
The month with the most cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 61).
The month with the least cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 2).
Average visibility
Abuja, Nigeria
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, November and December (10km).
The month with the lowest visibility is August (7km).
