May Weather in Lagos, Nigeria

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In May, Lagos, Nigeria, experiences a warm tropical climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 32°C (89°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F). The city’s minimum temperature hovers around 24°C (76°F), providing a consistently warm atmosphere. This month is also notable for its high humidity, reaching 82%, which combined with significant precipitation of about 179 mm (7.1 in) across 26 days, creates a lush, green environment. As rain showers frequent the days, the vibrant city pulses with life, blending the warmth of its climate with the refreshing touch of the rainy season.

May Temperature in Lagos

In Lagos, Nigeria, the month of May continues the warm trend established earlier in the year, with temperatures showing a delightful consistency. The minimum temperature settles at 24°C (76°F), while the average hovers around a comfortable 28°C (82°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The maximum temperature reaches up to 32°C (89°F), ensuring sunny days that can be enjoyed at the beach or exploring the vibrant city. Unlike the decreasing temperatures seen in the following months, May's climate maintains a summer-like warmth that is characteristic of this lively coastal city, setting the stage for a transition into the slightly cooler and more humid conditions of June. It’s a month that balances heat with the refreshing ocean breezes, perfect for embracing the dynamic lifestyle Lagos has to offer.

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

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Lagos, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Lagos, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec828383838280787879808282
Data source: Temperature data for Lagos generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Lagos

In May, Lagos experiences a significant uptick in rainfall, with 179 mm (7.1 in) of precipitation recorded over 26 days. This marks the peak of the city's wet season, following the already substantial rains of April. The increase from previous months—jumping from 100 mm (3.9 in) in April—signals the full arrival of the rainy season, setting the stage for lush greenery and vibrant landscapes. As May unfolds, residents and visitors alike should be prepared for nearly daily showers, which lay the groundwork for the even heavier rains that follow in June. This trend not only highlights the importance of water management in the bustling city but also showcases the dynamic climate patterns that define Lagos.

May Precipitation Trends in Lagos

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lagos, 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 Lagos, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24581071001793042581782182409536
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Lagos

As May unfolds in Lagos, Nigeria, residents experience a significant uptick in humidity, reaching 82%. This marks a noticeable rise from the 72% recorded in April and sets the stage for the intensifying moisture characteristic of the wet season. The trend is clear: humidity steadily increases from the comparatively dry months of January and February, which start at 37% and 44% respectively. By the time June rolls in, humidity jumps to 86%, leading into the peak of the rainy season. This gradual escalation not only highlights the transition into a lush, vibrant landscape but also prepares Lagosians for the inevitable downpours that follow, peaking in the more humid months of July and August, where levels soar to 87% and 90%.

May Average Humidity in Lagos

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lagos, 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 Lagos is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37%44%61%72%82%86%87%90%91%90%82%63%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Lagos

In May, Lagos experiences a UV Index of 12, falling into the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV ratings continues from the previous months, peaking in April at 13 and holding strong. As the year progresses, the UV levels remain consistently high, particularly from March to June, indicating that sun safety precautions are crucial during this period. With summer approaching, residents and visitors alike should be vigilant in using sunscreen and seeking shade. For detailed insights on ultraviolet radiation levels throughout the year, visit Lagos UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lagos for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lagos 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 Lagos typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1010111312111111121198
Data source: Lagos 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 Lagos

As we celebrate May in Lagos, Nigeria, the sun shines brighter than ever, illuminating the city with an impressive 320 hours of daylight. This marks the peak of sunshine hours, reflecting a steady upward trend that began in the early months of the year, where January opened with 260 hours and gradually increased. The warmth grows more intense as we transition from April to May, showcasing a delightful progression in daylight that encourages outdoor activities and vibrant gatherings. Following May, a slight dip in sunshine can be expected in June, but the overall trend throughout the year remains largely favorable, with the city enjoying a healthy distribution of daylight, enhancing its lively atmosphere.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lagos: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lagos 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec260h286h307h309h320h285h295h309h284h305h306h318h
Data source: Lagos May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lagos During May

In Lagos, Nigeria, the likelihood of sunny weather shows considerable variation throughout the year, notably peaking in January and February with chances of about 55% and 54% respectively. As the year progresses, the chances begin to wane, dropping to 29% by May. This decline continues into the rainy season, with June and July seeing a mere 20% chance of sunny days. The pattern suggests that while May still enjoys some sunlight, it's noticeably less than the early months of the year, signaling a shift towards the wetter months ahead. Thus, if you're planning activities in Lagos during May, it's wise to keep an eye on the forecast, as the sun's presence may not be as reliable.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Lagos

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lagos 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 Lagos experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55%54%28%34%29%20%20%10%15%26%36%50%
Data source: Lagos May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lagos in May

In Lagos, Nigeria, the daylight duration displays intriguing patterns throughout the year. From January to February, the city enjoys a consistent 11 hours of daylight, providing a stable start to the year. As spring approaches in March and April, daylight increases to 12 hours, signaling the gradual transition into the warmer months. This 12-hour daylight duration continues through May, June, July, August, and September, highlighting the tropical climate's stability. However, as October rolls in, the daylight begins to dwindle back to 11 hours, leading to a lull before the year ends in the shorter days of November and December. Ultimately, Lagos experiences a harmonious balance of light, with five months of extended daylight that fosters activity and vibrance amidst the city's bustling life.

Average Daylight Hours in Lagos for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lagos throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 46m11h 54m12h 4m12h 15m12h 24m12h 28m12h 26m12h 18m12h 8m11h 57m11h 48m11h 44m
Data source: Lagos daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Lagos

In May, Lagos experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph), keeping in line with the preceding months' patterns. Notably, this month maintains a consistent wind flow compared to April's 3.4 m/s, suggesting a stable atmospheric condition as the city transitions into the dampness of the approaching rainy season. The wind speed dips from the brisk 3.5 m/s in March, highlighting a subtle decline as temperatures begin to rise. As the city broadens its embrace of the humid rainy season ahead, May offers a refreshing interlude, characterized by relatively mild winds amid the vibrant life that flourishes in Lagos.

Average May Wind Speed in Lagos

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lagos, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.23.33.53.43.3 m/s2.84.03.82.82.82.62.7
Data source: Lagos May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Lagos Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between May and January, May experiences higher humidity levels at 82%, contributing to a more tropical feel, while January has a significantly lower humidity of 37%. Although both months have an average temperature of 28°C (82°F), May's temperatures can peak at 32°C (89°F) compared to January's maximum of 32°C (91°F). Precipitation is also a major difference; May sees substantial rainfall at 179 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days, whereas January is much drier with only 24 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days. For more details about January weather, visit Lagos weather in January.

May and February present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), with an average of 28°C (82°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 179 mm (7.1 in) distributed over 26 days, leading to high humidity levels of 82%. In contrast, February is slightly warmer at times, with a maximum temperature of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), but it boasts a much more moderate precipitation of only 58 mm (2.3 in) over 15 days. The humidity in February is also much lower at 44%, making it feel less oppressive. For a detailed look at February's climate specifics, you can visit Lagos weather in February.

When comparing the weather in March and May, both months experience similar average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) in May to 25°C (77°F) in March, with max temperatures peaking at around 32°C (89°F) and 32°C (90°F) respectively. However, March tends to be drier, with only 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 23 days, compared to May's more substantial 179 mm (7.1 in) across 26 days. Additionally, May's humidity is significantly higher at 82%, compared to 61% in March, resulting in a more muggy and humid feeling during the latter part of spring. For more detailed insights, you can check Lagos weather in March.

May and April weather in Lagos show some interesting comparisons. Both months have similar temperature ranges, with minimums at 24°C (76°F), averages around 28°C (82°F), and maximums reaching 32°C (89°F). However, May sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 179 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days, compared to April's 100 mm (3.9 in) over 21 days. Additionally, humidity rises in May to 82%, up from April's 72%, contributing to a more tropical feel as the month progresses. For more details, you can visit Lagos weather in April.

May and June experience warm temperatures, but June tends to be slightly cooler with an average temperature of 27°C (80°F) compared to May's 28°C (82°F). Although both months have high humidity levels, June is marginally more humid at 86% versus May's 82%. However, June sees a significant increase in precipitation, with 304 mm (12.0 in) falling over 27 days, compared to May's 179 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days. This makes June a wetter month overall. For more details, you can check Lagos weather in June.

In comparing the weather between May and July, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with May having a slightly higher average temperature of 28°C (82°F) compared to July's 26°C (79°F). However, July experiences increased precipitation, with 258 mm (10.1 in) spread over 29 days, which is significantly more than May's 179 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days. Additionally, humidity levels rise from 82% in May to 87% in July, contributing to a muggy atmosphere during the latter month. For more detailed insights into the weather during this period, check Lagos weather in July.

In May, the weather tends to be warmer with average temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 179 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, August feels slightly cooler, with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Rainfall is comparable, with 178 mm (7.0 in) falling over 24 days, but humidity rises to 90%, making it feel more humid. For more details, check out Lagos weather in August.

May and September in Lagos present distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition in the rainy season. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), with an average of 28°C (82°F). The month sees significant rainfall, with 179 mm (7.1 in) of precipitation spread across 26 days, resulting in a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, September features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F), an average of 26°C (79°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). However, it experiences even more rainfall, totaling 218 mm (8.6 in) over 28 days, while humidity rises to 91%. For a more detailed look at September weather, check out Lagos weather in September.

May and October in Lagos exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months having minimums around 24°C (75-76°F) and maximums of 30-32°C (87-89°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer on average at 28°C (82°F) compared to October's average of 27°C (80°F). Rainfall, though considerable in both months, is more pronounced in October with 240 mm (9.5 in) of precipitation over 28 days, while May sees 179 mm (7.1 in) spread over 26 days. Humidity levels are also higher in October at 90%, compared to May's 82%, contributing to a more humid atmosphere overall. For more detailed information, you can check Lagos weather in October.

May and November in Lagos share a warm tropical climate, with both months featuring a minimum temperature of 24°C (76°F) and an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). However, May experiences slightly higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 32°C (89°F), compared to November's maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation also differs significantly, with May receiving 179 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days, while November sees just 95 mm (3.7 in) across 24 days. Interestingly, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 82%. For more detailed information about November's weather, visit Lagos weather in November.

In May, the weather in Lagos is characterized by warm temperatures, with minimums around 24°C (76°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (89°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 179 mm (7.1 in) over about 26 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 82%. In contrast, December offers a slightly cooler climate, with similar average temperatures but slightly less humidity at 63%. The rainfall drops significantly to just 36 mm (1.4 in) over 12 days, creating a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities. For more details on December weather, check out Lagos weather in December.

Compare Lagos's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Lagos

As May unfolds in Lagos, the weather showcases a distinct transformation, characterized by increased humidity and frequent rain showers that set it apart from other months. With average temperatures hovering around a comfortable 28°C, the city experiences a blend of warmth and moisture, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Rainfall becomes more prominent, with nearly every day seeing precipitation, contributing to the lush greenery that emerges. This month marks the transition into the rainy season, offering a unique charm to the bustling city. For a deeper look at how Lagos' climate evolves throughout the year, explore Lagos Climate.