Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lagos, Nigeria

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.

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 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.

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.

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).

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, 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.

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »