Weather in Lagos

Planning your day in Lagos? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and visual charts to help you be prepared for any of nature's surprises.

Lagos, located in Nigeria, boasts a tropical climate that ensures warm weather throughout the year. Temperature fluctuations here are minimal: average values consistently remain above 25°C and reach 29°C during the warmest months. Even night-time temperatures remain quite high, usually within the 23-26°C range, creating a feeling of endless summer.

Two main seasons are clearly defined in the Lagos climate: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season typically lasts from December to February, characterized by minimal rainfall (1-2 mm per month) and relatively few rainy days. From March, rainfall and rainy days gradually begin to increase, peaking between May and October. During these months, the highest amount of precipitation falls (up to 9 mm in June), and the number of rainy days can reach 25-29 per month, indicating a distinct wet season.

Warm weather prevails in Lagos all year round, though the temperature regime has its seasonal features. The annual range of average temperatures is relatively small: from approximately 25.5°C in August to 29.0°C in February and March. The hottest months are usually February and March, when the average daytime temperature reaches 29°C, and maximum values can rise to 32.0-32.6°C. Nights during this period are also very warm, with minimum temperatures around 25-26°C. The "coolest" months are considered to be July and August, when the average temperature is about 25.5-25.8°C, and night-time minimums drop to 23.5-23.8°C.

The period that can be conditionally called "summer" or, more accurately, the hottest time, falls on the months from December to April. During this time, daytime temperatures consistently stay above 30°C, peaking in February (average maximum 32.6°C). Nights remain warm, rarely dropping below 24°C. This heat, especially in December-February, is often accompanied by lower humidity characteristic of the dry season. With the onset of the rainy season, roughly from May to October, temperatures soften slightly. Daytime maximums in June-August fluctuate around 27.5-28.8°C, and nights bring relative coolness with temperatures of 23.5-24.3°C. Despite a slight decrease in absolute values, high humidity during this period can create a sensation of quite sultry weather.

Temperature fluctuations between day and night in Lagos also depend on the season. The greatest difference is observed in drier months, such as January (average maximum 32.3°C, minimum 24.3°C) and December (32.0°C and 24.4°C), when the daily variation can be about 7-8°C. At the height of the rainy season, for example, in July and August, this difference decreases to 4-5°C (for instance, in August: maximum 27.5°C, minimum 23.5°C), which is due to greater cloud cover and increased air humidity that hinder both daytime heating and night-time cooling.

In Lagos, there is a clearly defined seasonality in precipitation distribution throughout the year, which is characteristic of a tropical climate. The year can be clearly divided into a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season usually falls on the period from December to February, when rainfall is minimal and the frequency of rainy days is low.

The rainy season in Lagos typically lasts from May to October, bringing a significant increase in both total rainfall and the number of rainy days. The peak of precipitation occurs in June, when an average of about 9 mm falls. During this period, it rains very often: for example, in July there are on average 29 rainy days, and in June, September, and October – from 27 to 28 days. This means that at the height of the wet season, rain can be an almost daily occurrence, although its intensity varies.

The driest months in Lagos are January and December, when only about 1 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days is just 9-10. February also remains quite dry with 2 mm of rainfall and 12 rainy days. Transitional months, such as March, April, and November, demonstrate a gradual increase or decrease in rainfall and rain frequency, bridging the dry and wet periods.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Lagos, remember that a warm tropical climate awaits you all year round. The basis of your wardrobe should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which will help you comfortably endure the heat. Regardless of the season, be sure to bring high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and headwear (a hat or cap) to protect yourself from the active sun of Nigeria. Comfortable walking shoes are your faithful companion for exploring the city.

Lagos has a clearly defined rainy season, which usually lasts roughly from May to October, and there is also an increased likelihood of precipitation in March, April, and November. During these periods, it is worth being prepared for frequent, though usually warm, downpours. Grab a light folding umbrella or a compact raincoat – they won't take up much space but will come in very handy. Clothing made from quick-drying materials will also be an advantage. In the drier months, from December to February, precipitation is unlikely, but sun protection remains just as important a priority.

Besides basic clothing, think about a few practical items. A pair of sandals or flip-flops will be useful for relaxing, while closed shoes will be comfortable for long walks, especially if there is a chance of rain. Don't forget insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors in the evenings. A light sweater, cardigan, or stole may be useful in air-conditioned rooms or for evening strolls when the temperature might drop slightly while remaining comfortable. And, of course, if your plans include visiting a beach or pool, don't forget a swimsuit!