May Weather in Lalibela, Ethiopia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

May in Lalibela, Ethiopia offers a delightful blend of warm temperatures and refreshing rainfall. With maximum highs reaching 29°C (84°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), visitors can enjoy pleasantly mild days. Nighttime temperatures dip to a minimum of 9°C (48°F), providing a cool respite. This month sees 136 mm (5.4 in) of rainfall over approximately 10 days, contributing to a humidity level of 56% that enhances the lush landscape. Whether exploring historic sites or enjoying the vibrant local culture, May is an inviting time to experience the unique beauty of Lalibela.

May Temperature in Lalibela

In May, Lalibela, Ethiopia, experiences a mild transition as the temperatures remain relatively stable, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a comfortable average of 19°C (66°F). As the month progresses, daytime highs reach a pleasant 29°C (84°F), perfect for exploring the ancient rock-hewn churches that dot the landscape. This month marks the tail end of the warmer season, making it an ideal time for visitors who appreciate moderate temperatures. The consistent warmth of May gently hints at the cooler, wetter months ahead, as temperatures begin to dip slightly in June. Overall, the climate in May offers a delightful balance, inviting both adventure and relaxation amid Lalibela's breathtaking historical backdrop.

May Weather in Lalibela: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Lalibela, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Lalibela, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec616466666563595960616160
Data source: Temperature data for Lalibela generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Lalibela

In Lalibela, Ethiopia, May marks a significant leap in precipitation, with 136 mm (5.4 in) of rain falling over 10 days. This surge follows a wet April, where 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain was recorded, setting the stage for the intensifying rainy season. As temperatures begin to rise, May serves as a transition point, ushering in a period where rain becomes more consistent and plentiful. By this time, the overall trend showcases a dramatic increase in rainfall, a prelude to the monsoon months of July and August, which see an even more astonishing accumulation of rain. This shift highlights the region's dynamic climate and underscores May as a pivotal month in Lalibela's annual weather patterns.

May Precipitation Trends in Lalibela

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lalibela, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Lalibela, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec126189413612351858022536262
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Lalibela

As May arrives in Lalibela, Ethiopia, the humidity begins to rise, reaching 56%, signaling a shift in the climate as the dry season transitions into the wetter months ahead. This increase is notable compared to April's 43%, indicating a growing moisture content in the air. Following May, the humidity continues to escalate, peaking in the summer months of July and August at 75% and 84%, respectively. This trend emphasizes a wet season characterized by significantly higher humidity, contrasting sharply with the drier winter months when levels dropped as low as 37% in March. Understanding this shift helps to capture the unique climatic rhythm of Lalibela, as the once-arid air transforms into a more humid atmosphere, setting the stage for lush landscapes and invigorating rains.

May Average Humidity in Lalibela

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lalibela, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Lalibela is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec52%44%37%43%56%45%75%85%69%70%75%65%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Lalibela

In May, Lalibela, Ethiopia, experiences a consistently high UV Index of 15, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of elevated UV levels has been prevalent since January, peaking in March and April, before remaining steady through May. Such intense exposure underscores the importance of sun protection during these months, mirroring the conditions of both April and the preceding months. As the year progresses, this extreme exposure begins to slightly taper off in June, highlighting the persistent need for vigilance against UV radiation during this bright time of year. For more detailed insights, visit the Lalibela UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lalibela for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lalibela in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in Lalibela typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121415151512141513131211
Data source: Lalibela May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Lalibela

In Lalibela, Ethiopia, May shines brightly with an impressive 332 hours of sunlight, contributing to its reputation as a destination rich in natural beauty. As the year progresses, the trend reveals that sunlight hours peak in March, with 337 hours, closely followed by April. Interestingly, May maintains a strong showing as one of the sunniest months, indicative of the region's consistent climate leading into the more temperate months of June and July. This continuity not only fosters a vibrant ecosystem but also enhances the spiritual and historical allure of Lalibela, making it an ideal time for visitors to explore its remarkable rock-hewn churches basking in the warm glow of the sun.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lalibela: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lalibela experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec268h297h337h324h332h331h306h301h326h331h316h334h
Data source: Lalibela May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lalibela During May

In Lalibela, Ethiopia, the likelihood of sunny weather significantly decreases as May approaches, with a mere 45% chance of sun compared to the more radiant winter months. The trend reveals that while January boasts a remarkable 87% sunshine likelihood, this percentage steadily declines through the subsequent months, hitting a low of 16% in the heart of the rainy season in July. Following May, the chances only slightly improve, hovering around the 40s and 50s from late summer to autumn. By November, the sun begins to make a stronger reappearance, suggesting a cyclical nature to Lalibela's weather patterns that can be both beautifully sunny and unpredictably cloudy throughout the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Lalibela

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lalibela throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Lalibela experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%68%76%61%45%46%16%41%51%58%73%78%
Data source: Lalibela May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lalibela in May

In Lalibela, Ethiopia, the daylight duration showcases a captivating rhythm throughout the year. Beginning in January and February, residents enjoy a steady 11 hours of daylight, which sets a tranquil tone for the start of the year. As spring approaches in March and April, daylight expands to 12 hours, bathing the landscape in vibrant light and warmth. This generous 12-hour span persists through the summer months, maintaining an inviting atmosphere that supports outdoor activities and community gatherings. However, as October rolls in, daylight gradually recedes back to 11 hours, echoing the cycle of the seasons. This pattern reveals a harmonious balance between the extremes, ensuring that Lalibela's days are enriching all year round.

Average Daylight Hours in Lalibela for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lalibela throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 29m11h 44m12h 3m12h 23m12h 40m12h 48m12h 44m12h 29m12h 10m11h 50m11h 33m11h 25m
Data source: Lalibela daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Lalibela

In Lalibela, Ethiopia, the month of May experiences a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 1.6 m/s (4 mph). This soothing airflow mirrors the overall trend observed throughout the year, where the winds remain relatively mild, fluctuating between 1.2 m/s to 2.1 m/s. While January and March showcase slightly stronger gusts, May’s calm atmosphere contributes to a tranquil and picturesque setting for visitors exploring the historic rock-hewn churches. As the year progresses, wind speeds tend to dip in summer, with July and August experiencing the calmest conditions. This consistency in the gentle winds not only enhances the serene landscape but also invites a leisurely exploration of this exceptional UNESCO World Heritage site.

Average May Wind Speed in Lalibela

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lalibela, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.91.72.11.71.6 m/s1.81.21.21.41.81.81.9
Data source: Lalibela May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Lalibela Compares to Other Months

Weather in Lalibela varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Lalibela, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

May weather presents a much warmer climate compared to January, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), resulting in an average of 19°C (66°F). Additionally, May experiences higher precipitation, averaging 136 mm (5.4 in) across approximately 10 days, leading to a relatively humid environment with humidity around 56%. In contrast, January offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). Remarkably, January sees very little precipitation, with only 1 mm (0.1 in) recorded over the entire month and humidity levels at a lower 52%. For more detailed information, you can check Lalibela weather in January.

May and February present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures soar higher with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), making it warmer overall with an average of 19°C (66°F). This month also sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over about 10 days, which contributes to a higher humidity level of 56%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). Additionally, February's precipitation is markedly lighter, totaling only 26 mm (1.0 in) over just 5 days, leading to a lower humidity of 44%. For more specific details on February weather, check Lalibela weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, both months display similar average temperatures, hovering around 19°C (66°F). However, March tends to have slightly higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 30°C (85°F), compared to May's maximum of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; March sees only 18 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, while May experiences more rain, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) across 10 days, resulting in higher humidity levels of 56% compared to March's 37%. For more details, you can check Lalibela weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May and April, we see that both months have similar average temperatures, with April being slightly warmer at an average of 19°C (67°F) compared to May's 19°C (66°F). However, May experiences slightly higher maximum temperatures, with a peak of 29°C (84°F) compared to April's 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is more prevalent in May, with 136 mm (5.4 in) observed over 10 days, compared to April's 94 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. Additionally, May has higher humidity levels at 56%, while April's humidity sits at a lower 43%. For those interested in more details, you can find additional information here: Lalibela weather in April.

In May, we experience a warmer climate with average temperatures peaking at 19°C (66°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F), while June brings a slight drop in average temperature to 17°C (64°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Despite the similar minimum temperatures of 9°C (48°F) in both months, May is generally warmer and slightly wetter, recording 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days compared to June's 123 mm (4.8 in) across 11 days. Additionally, the humidity levels are higher in May at 56%, while June enjoys a more comfortable 45%. For more detailed weather statistics, you can check out Lalibela weather in June.

May offers a more moderate climate with average temperatures reaching 19°C (66°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). In contrast, July experiences cooler average temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and maximums of only 23°C (74°F). Additionally, May sees significantly less precipitation at 136 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 10 days, while July is much wetter, recording 517 mm (20.4 in) across 30 days. The humidity also rises in July, reaching 75%, compared to May's 56%. For more details on July weather, visit Lalibela weather in July.

In comparing the weather of May and August, it’s clear that August is generally cooler and wetter. May boasts a wider temperature range with minimums of 9°C (48°F), average highs around 29°C (84°F), and significantly less precipitation at 136 mm (5.4 in) over 10 days. In contrast, August sees an average temperature drop to a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and a marked increase in rainfall, accumulating 580 mm (22.8 in) over a substantial 31 days, leading to higher humidity levels of 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Lalibela weather in August.

In comparing the weather of May and September, May tends to offer warmer average temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), while September features cooler conditions with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Additionally, May experiences less precipitation, averaging 136 mm (5.4 in) over 10 days, whereas September sees a significant increase, with 225 mm (8.8 in) spread across 18 days. The humidity also rises in September to 69%, compared to May's 56%, contributing to a more oppressive feel during the later month. For more specific details on September weather in Lalibela, you can visit Lalibela weather in September.

May and October exhibit distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F), and the month sees significant rainfall of 136 mm (5.4 in) over about 10 days. In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Additionally, October is notably drier, receiving only 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, although it has higher humidity at 69%. For more detailed information, you can check out Lalibela weather in October.

In May, temperatures tend to be warmer, with daily averages ranging from a cool minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a comfortable maximum of 29°C (84°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with about 136 mm (5.4 in) over 10 days, contributing to a relatively moderate humidity of 56%. In contrast, November offers milder temperatures, peaking at 25°C (77°F), with a lower average maximum of 16°C (61°F) and a minimum of 5°C (41°F). This month sees much less precipitation, totaling only 26 mm (1.0 in) over just 2 days, but features higher humidity levels at 75%. For more details, check out the Lalibela weather in November.

In May, the weather is generally warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging around 19°C (66°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, with a total precipitation of 136 mm (5.4 in) over about 10 days, and humidity levels sitting at 56%. In contrast, December presents cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Remarkably, December sees minimal rainfall, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no days of precipitation, while humidity rises slightly to 65%. For more specific insights, check out Lalibela weather in December.

Compare Lalibela's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Lalibela

As May arrives in Lalibela, the weather transitions into a vibrant blend of warmth and occasional rains. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 29°C (84°F), days feel pleasantly balmy, a stark contrast to the cooler months that precede it. While the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 19°C (66°F), a notable increase in humidity, at 56%, marks the approach of the rainy season. Rainfall is more frequent this month, as evidenced by 10 days of precipitation adding up to 136 mm (5.4 inches), inviting lush greenery and revitalizing the landscape. This shift not only enhances the beauty of Lalibela but also prepares the region for its vibrant summer. For a deeper dive into the overall climate trends, visit Lalibela Climate.