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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
UV Risk Categories
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.