Nigeria Weather by Month
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is known for its vast landscapes, which range from coastal regions to arid northern plains, and from the fertile highlands to dense rainforests. With such geographical diversity, Nigeria experiences a wide variety of weather patterns that vary considerably by region and time of year. The country’s climate is generally categorized into two primary seasons: the wet season and the dry season. However, the timing, intensity, and duration of these seasons can differ depending on the region, making it essential to understand the monthly weather patterns to make the most of the country’s climate.
The wet season in Nigeria lasts from March to October, while the dry season runs from November to February. Additionally, Nigeria experiences regional variations that are influenced by factors like proximity to the coast, elevation, and latitude. In the southern regions, the weather is more tropical, while the northern regions, particularly the Sahel and desert regions, are much drier and hotter.
January: The Height of the Dry Season
General Overview
January falls right in the middle of Nigeria’s dry season, and it is characterized by hot, dry conditions across most of the country. The Harmattan winds, which originate in the Sahara Desert, bring dry, dusty air to the northern parts of Nigeria. These winds lower humidity and reduce visibility, while also causing cooler temperatures at night. In the south, however, the weather is warmer, with occasional light rains in coastal areas. January is typically a good time to visit most of Nigeria’s regions, as the rains have not yet started, and the cooler temperatures in the north make travel more comfortable.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in January vary significantly between the northern and southern regions. In the north, including cities like Kano and Sokoto, temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F) during the day, with nighttime temperatures cooling to around 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). In the central and southern regions, cities like Abuja and Lagos experience slightly milder temperatures, typically ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 89°F), with occasional highs reaching 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is minimal across the country, especially in the north, where the Harmattan winds dominate the weather patterns. The coastal regions, including Lagos, experience light showers, but the rains are not heavy enough to significantly disrupt daily life.
Regional Variations
The northern regions of Nigeria, including the Sahel and desert regions, are the driest, with very little rainfall. The Harmattan winds sweep across these areas, making the weather harsh and dusty. In contrast, the southern regions, such as the Niger Delta and Lagos, see more moderate conditions with the possibility of light rain. The central regions, including Abuja, are typically hot and dry, but humidity levels remain lower than in the southern areas.
February: Warm and Dry
General Overview
February is similar to January in terms of weather, remaining part of Nigeria’s dry season. The Harmattan winds continue to affect the northern regions, keeping the temperatures high during the day and relatively cooler at night. While it is one of the driest months, the southern regions begin to experience a slight increase in humidity as the country approaches the onset of the wet season. February is one of the best months for travel in Nigeria, as the weather remains relatively dry, and temperatures are manageable, especially in the central and northern parts of the country.
Temperature and Rainfall
In the north, cities like Kano and Maiduguri continue to experience hot, dry conditions, with daytime temperatures reaching 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F) and nighttime temperatures cooling to around 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F). The central regions, such as Abuja, experience slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 89°F). In the southern coastal areas, including Lagos and Port Harcourt, temperatures range between 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 89°F). Rainfall is still minimal across the country, though there may be occasional light showers in the southern regions as humidity begins to increase.
Regional Variations
The northern regions, particularly in the Sahel and desert zones, remain the driest, with little to no rainfall. The southern coastal areas, such as Lagos and Calabar, experience moderate humidity levels and light rainfall, but the amounts are not significant enough to interfere with daily activities. The central parts of the country, including cities like Abuja, remain dry with manageable temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and travel.
March: Transition to the Wet Season
General Overview
March marks the transition between the dry and wet seasons in Nigeria. While the northern regions remain dry, the southern and central parts of the country begin to experience increasing rainfall. The Harmattan winds begin to subside in the north, leading to higher humidity levels. The southern regions, including the coast, see more frequent showers, while the central regions experience the first signs of the rainy season. March is often seen as a transitional month, and the weather can be unpredictable, with some areas experiencing heavy downpours while others remain dry.
Temperature and Rainfall
In March, temperatures in the northern regions of Nigeria, such as Sokoto and Kano, continue to be hot, with highs between 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F). In the central and southern regions, temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 89°F). The southern regions, including cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt, see increasing rainfall, with monthly totals ranging from 50mm to 100mm. In contrast, the northern parts of the country remain dry, with no significant rainfall, though humidity levels begin to rise. The central region, including Abuja, starts to experience the first rains of the season, with light showers becoming more common.
Regional Variations
The northern regions of Nigeria remain dry and hot, with very little rainfall. The southern regions, including Lagos, Calabar, and Port Harcourt, begin to experience more frequent rainfall, signaling the start of the wet season. The central regions, including Abuja, experience moderate rainfall, and the overall weather becomes more humid. This is a good time to visit the northern regions, as the weather is still dry and manageable, while the southern and central regions start to see more rain.
April: Start of the Wet Season
General Overview
April marks the official start of the rainy season in Nigeria, particularly in the central and southern regions. The rains become more frequent and intense, especially in the coastal areas, where thunderstorms and heavy downpours are common. The northern regions remain hot and dry, with the Harmattan winds fading out completely. The central regions of Nigeria, including cities like Abuja, begin to experience consistent rainfall, while the southern regions see significant rainfall. April is a month of transition for the weather, with some regions still experiencing dry conditions, while others receive heavier rains.
Temperature and Rainfall
In April, the temperatures in the northern regions remain high, ranging from 36°C to 40°C (97°F to 104°F), with little to no rainfall. In the central regions, such as Abuja, temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 89°F), with regular light to moderate rainfall. The southern regions, including Lagos and Port Harcourt, experience heavy rainfall, with totals averaging around 150mm to 200mm. The humidity in the southern regions increases, and the rainy season becomes more pronounced.
Regional Variations
The northern regions of Nigeria remain dry and hot, with no significant rainfall. The central regions, such as Abuja, experience the first full rains of the season, with light to moderate showers occurring frequently. The southern regions, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, experience heavy rainfall, making travel more challenging due to the wet conditions. This is the start of the rainy season, and many outdoor activities in the south may be disrupted due to the rain.
May: Heavy Rains and Warm Temperatures
General Overview
May is one of the wettest months in Nigeria, with the rainy season in full swing across the southern and central regions. Thunderstorms are frequent, and the rainfall is intense, particularly along the coast and in the southern regions. The northern regions remain dry and hot, with the Harmattan winds no longer affecting the weather. The southern regions face higher humidity levels and heavier downpours, making it one of the least favorable months for travel in the country, particularly in the southern cities.
Temperature and Rainfall
In May, temperatures in the northern regions of Nigeria remain hot, with highs of 37°C to 40°C (99°F to 104°F). The central regions experience temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F), with moderate rainfall. The southern regions, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, experience very heavy rainfall, with totals often exceeding 250mm. The humidity is high, making the weather feel warmer than the actual temperature.
Regional Variations
The northern regions remain dry and hot, with little to no rainfall. The central regions, including Abuja, begin to see heavy rain, with conditions becoming more humid. The southern regions experience heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make travel and outdoor activities more difficult. Coastal regions, particularly Lagos and Port Harcourt, receive some of the highest rainfall totals during this month.
June: Peak of the Wet Season
General Overview
June is typically one of the wettest months in Nigeria, particularly in the southern and central regions. The wet season is in full swing, with frequent rainstorms and downpours becoming the norm across the country. The northern regions remain dry and hot, with high temperatures continuing throughout the month. The south and central regions experience intense rainfall, which can cause disruptions in daily activities and transportation, especially in urban areas where flooding may occur.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in the northern regions continue to soar, with highs ranging from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F). In the central regions, such as Abuja, temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F), with regular rainfall. The southern regions, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, experience the heaviest rainfall, often exceeding 300mm in total. The humidity levels are very high, making the weather feel hotter and more uncomfortable, especially in coastal areas.
Regional Variations
The northern regions remain hot and dry, with little to no rain. The central and southern regions experience consistent rainfall, with thunderstorms becoming frequent. In the coastal regions, Lagos and Port Harcourt receive some of the highest rainfall totals of the year, while cities in the western highlands, such as Jos and Bassa, see moderate rainfall but are generally cooler due to the altitude.
July: Continuing Wet Conditions
General Overview
July continues the wet season for most of Nigeria, especially in the southern and central regions. The rains remain frequent, and the weather is humid, particularly in coastal areas. The northern regions continue to experience dry conditions, and the temperature remains high. The southern parts of the country face daily rainfall, and transportation in urban areas can be affected by flooding. The central regions also experience regular rain, though the weather is slightly less intense than in the south.
Temperature and Rainfall
In July, temperatures in the northern regions of Nigeria continue to hover between 35°C and 40°C (95°F to 104°F), with no significant rainfall. In the central regions, temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F), with frequent moderate rainfall. The southern regions, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, experience heavy rainfall, with monthly totals frequently surpassing 300mm.
Regional Variations
The northern regions of Nigeria remain dry, with little rain and high temperatures. The central and southern regions experience regular rainfall, with the heaviest rain falling along the coast. The western highlands, including Jos and Bassa, experience moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures.
August: Wet Season Continues
General Overview
August is another month in which the wet season dominates the weather in Nigeria, especially in the southern and central regions. The rains continue to be heavy, and the humid conditions make outdoor activities difficult, particularly in the coastal areas. The northern regions remain dry, and temperatures remain high. The rains in the south lead to an increase in flooding risks, and some urban areas may face transportation disruptions due to the heavy downpours.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in the northern regions continue to stay around 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F), with dry conditions. The central regions experience temperatures of 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with heavy rainfall. The southern regions, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, see significant rainfall, often exceeding 300mm, making it one of the wettest months of the year.
Regional Variations
The northern regions continue to be dry and hot, with very little rainfall. The central and southern regions experience heavy rainfall, particularly in the coastal regions. The western highlands experience moderate rainfall, though conditions are cooler compared to the rest of the country.
September: Transition to the Dry Season
General Overview
September marks the beginning of the transition toward the dry season for most of Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions. The southern and coastal regions still experience significant rainfall, but the frequency and intensity of the rains begin to decline. The temperature in the north remains high, but the humidity levels decrease slightly. September is a month of change, as the country moves from the wet season toward drier conditions.
Temperature and Rainfall
In September, temperatures in the northern regions remain hot, with highs between 35°C and 40°C (95°F to 104°F). In the central regions, temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F), with decreasing rainfall. The southern regions continue to receive rain, although it becomes less frequent as the month progresses. Monthly rainfall totals in the south may still exceed 200mm, particularly in Lagos, Calabar, and Port Harcourt.
Regional Variations
The northern regions, such as Kano and Sokoto, continue to experience dry conditions, with little to no rainfall. The central and southern regions, including cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, begin to experience a decrease in rainfall. The western highlands, including Jos and Bassa, experience moderate rainfall, with cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country.
October: The Start of the Dry Season
General Overview
October marks the beginning of the dry season for much of Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions. The southern regions still receive some rainfall, but the wet season is starting to taper off. The Harmattan winds begin to return to the northern regions, bringing dry air and slightly cooler conditions. October is a great month for travelers to explore the northern and central parts of Nigeria, as the weather becomes more predictable and pleasant.
Temperature and Rainfall
In October, the northern regions experience temperatures between 35°C and 40°C (95°F to 104°F), with minimal rainfall. In the central regions, temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with decreasing rainfall. The southern regions still experience light to moderate rainfall, with totals ranging between 100mm and 150mm.
Regional Variations
The northern regions remain dry, with little to no rainfall, while the southern regions experience the final rains of the season. The western highlands experience mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, making it an ideal time to visit these cooler regions.
November: Full Onset of the Dry Season
General Overview
November marks the official start of the dry season in Nigeria. The rains have almost completely subsided across the country, and the Harmattan winds begin to make their return to the north. The temperatures in the northern regions remain high, but the humidity levels are lower, making the heat more bearable. This is one of the best months for outdoor activities and travel, particularly in the central and northern regions.
Temperature and Rainfall
In November, temperatures in the northern regions remain around 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F). The central regions experience milder conditions, ranging from 24°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F). In the southern regions, temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and rainfall is minimal. The Harmattan winds begin to sweep across the country, bringing dry, cooler conditions to the northern regions.
Regional Variations
The northern regions remain dry and hot, with minimal rainfall. The central and southern regions experience moderate temperatures, and the humidity levels are lower than during the wet season. The western highlands, including Jos and Bassa, enjoy pleasant temperatures and dry conditions, making it a great time for travel.
December: Dry and Cool
General Overview
December is part of Nigeria’s dry season, and the weather is typically hot and dry across most parts of the country. The Harmattan winds are fully in effect in the northern regions, bringing cool, dry air. The southern regions experience lower humidity levels, making the weather more comfortable compared to the wet season. This is one of the best times for travel throughout Nigeria, as the weather is dry and generally pleasant.
Temperature and Rainfall
In December, temperatures in the northern regions range from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F), but the dry air from the Harmattan winds makes the heat more bearable. The central regions experience temperatures of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while the southern regions have slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Rainfall is minimal, and the humidity levels are low.
Regional Variations
The northern regions, such as Kano and Sokoto, experience dry, cool conditions due to the Harmattan winds. The central regions, including Abuja and Jos, enjoy comfortable temperatures and dry weather, while the southern regions, such as Lagos and Port Harcourt, remain warm but with much lower humidity levels than during the wet season. The western highlands continue to experience pleasant conditions throughout December.
