Weather in Lalibela

Climate and Weather in Lalibela, Ethiopia

Lalibela, located in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia, is a historic town known for its rock-hewn churches and rich cultural heritage. The climate in Lalibela is influenced by its high elevation and its proximity to the Ethiopian Highlands. Let's explore the weather patterns and climate conditions in Lalibela throughout the year.

Temperature

Lalibela experiences a pleasant and mild climate with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature in Lalibela ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). However, there are noticeable variations between the daytime and nighttime temperatures. During the summer months of June to August, Lalibela experiences its rainy season, which is also characterized by cooler temperatures. The average high during this time ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 22°C (72°F), while the average low can drop to around 10°C (50°F). The dry season in Lalibela spans from October to May, with the months of November to January being the coolest. During this time, the average high temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) to 25°C (77°F), while the average low temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F).

Precipitation

Lalibela receives the majority of its rainfall during the summer months. The rainy season starts in June and lasts until August, with July being the wettest month. During this period, Lalibela receives an average of 249 mm (9.8 inches) of precipitation. The dry season, on the other hand, experiences significantly less rainfall. From November to May, Lalibela receives an average monthly precipitation of less than 25 mm (1 inch). The months of December and January are particularly dry, with average rainfall below 5 mm (0.2 inches).

Sunshine

Lalibela enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. On average, Lalibela experiences approximately 8 hours of sunshine per day. The sunniest months are from November to February, with an average of 9 to 10 hours of sunshine per day.

Wind

Lalibela experiences light to moderate winds throughout the year. The prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, with an average wind speed ranging between 5 to 15 km/h (3 to 9 mph). However, wind speeds can occasionally increase during the rainy season.

Humidity

Lalibela experiences relatively low humidity levels throughout the year. The average humidity ranges from 40% to 60%, providing a comfortable and pleasant environment for visitors.

Climate Summary

To summarize, Lalibela has a mild and pleasant climate characterized by relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The town experiences a distinct wet season from June to August and a dry season from October to May. The coolest months are November to January, while the warmest months are from June to August. Lalibela receives the majority of its rainfall during the wet season, with limited precipitation during the dry months. Visitors can expect a good amount of sunshine and comfortable humidity levels when exploring the historic sites and cultural wonders of Lalibela.

References:

- Climate-Data.org: Lalibela Climate (https://en.climate-data.org/africa/ethiopia/amhara-region/lalibela-3170/) - Holiday-Weather.com: Lalibela Climate (https://www.holiday-weather.com/lalibela/averages/)