Lima, Peru, boasts a unique climate that distinguishes it from other cities in South America.
The weather in Lima is characterized by warm, muggy summers and long, cool, dry winters.
The temperature in Lima varies between 59°F to 81°F throughout the year, making it a reliable destination for comfortable weather nearly year-round.
In Lima, the summers are typically overcast and arid, creating a humid atmosphere despite the absence of frequent rainfall.
Winter nights can be windy and clearer, offering cooler temperatures perfect for those who prefer milder weather.
Visitors arriving at the city’s airport will appreciate the consistency of Lima weather, making it simpler to plan activities and excursions around nearby locations.
For those curious about average weather trends, comprehensive details include daylight, visibility, and UV index data, providing a thorough understanding of what to expect when traveling to Lima.
The city’s coastal geography, influenced by ocean currents, adds to its relatively moderate annual temperature, enhancing its appeal as a travel destination in Peru.
To explore specific weather patterns by month, refer to this detailed guide.
Average Temperature in Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru experiences mild temperatures year-round.
The warm season lasts for three months, from January to April, with average daily high temperatures above 78°F.
February is the warmest month, featuring an average high of 80°F and a low of 69°F.
The cool season spans from June to October. During this period, average daily high temperatures stay below 69°F.
The coldest month is August, with temperatures ranging between a high of 66°F and a low of 59°F.
In terms of monthly averages, the temperature in Lima rarely fluctuates dramatically.
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 79 | 69 |
| February | 80 | 69 |
| March | 79 | 69 |
| April | 76 | 68 |
| May | 71 | 63 |
| June | 68 | 61 |
| July | 67 | 59 |
| August | 66 | 59 |
| September | 67 | 59 |
| October | 69 | 61 |
| November | 72 | 63 |
| December | 76 | 66 |
The average temperature in Lima is relatively stable, creating a comfortable environment for most of the year.
Seasonal variations are mostly influenced by ocean currents and the coastal geography, which results in moderate temperatures.
Due to its desert climate, Lima has nearly no precipitation year-round, further contributing to the consistency in daily and average temperatures.
Average Precipitation in Lima, Peru
Lima has a unique climate, with minimal rainfall and no significant snowfall. The driest months see virtually no rain, while February experiences the highest precipitation levels.
Average Rainfall in Lima, Peru
Lima is characterized by its minimal rainfall throughout the year.
The city receives an average annual rainfall of just 0.5 inches, making it one of the driest capital cities globally.
Rain typically manifests as a light drizzle rather than heavy showers.
Here is a quick breakdown of average monthly rainfall:
| Month | Precipitation (in inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 0.01 |
| February | 0.04 |
| March | 0.02 |
| April | 0.01 |
| May | 0.01 |
| June | 0.01 |
| July | 0.01 |
| August | 0.02 |
| September | 0.01 |
| October | 0.01 |
| November | 0.01 |
| December | 0.01 |
The wettest month is February with approximately 0.04 inches of rain. In contrast, April is often the driest month with close to 0.01 inches of precipitation.
Average Snow in Lima, Peru
Snow is virtually non-existent in Lima due to its coastal location and low altitude.
The city’s climate, influenced by the Pacific Ocean, results in mild temperatures that do not drop low enough to produce snow.
For those interested in learning more about snow and ice in other locations, there are resources that delve into these topics. However, it is essential to understand that Lima’s climate rarely experiences such conditions.
Average Sun in Lima, Peru
Lima experiences a mix of clear and cloudy days throughout the year, with sunshine and daylight hours varying by season. The UV index also fluctuates, making it essential for visitors to understand how much sunlight they can expect when visiting.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Lima, Peru
Lima’s average daily shortwave solar energy varies throughout the year.
January sees the highest levels, reaching about 6.2 kWh per square meter. It gradually decreases, with June recording the lowest at approximately 4.8 kWh per square meter.
Below is a table showing the daily shortwave solar energy for each month:
| Month | Solar Energy (kWh/m²) |
|---|---|
| January | 6.2 |
| February | 6.0 |
| March | 5.9 |
| April | 5.6 |
| May | 5.3 |
| June | 4.8 |
| July | 5.0 |
| August | 5.4 |
| September | 5.7 |
| October | 6.0 |
| November | 6.1 |
| December | 6.3 |
The city enjoys long daylight hours during the summer months, while winter months have shorter days.
There is also a seasonal shift in cloud cover, with clearer skies typically observed from November to April. Conversely, June to October sees an increase in cloudiness.
UV index levels are high, especially from January to March, necessitating sun protection measures such as sunscreen and hats.
The amount of sunshine and daylight hours plays a significant role in planning outdoor activities and tourism in Lima.
Average Humidity in Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru experiences moderate to high humidity levels throughout the year. The relative humidity makes the city feel quite humid, especially during certain months.
On average, August is the most humid month with 85.0% relative humidity. December is the least humid month with 81.0% relative humidity.
These variations are minor, indicating consistent humidity levels year-round.
Below is a table showing average monthly humidity in Lima:
| Month | Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 82% |
| February | 82% |
| March | 82% |
| April | 83% |
| May | 83% |
| June | 83% |
| July | 84% |
| August | 85% |
| September | 84% |
| October | 83% |
| November | 82% |
| December | 81% |
The high humidity can affect the dew point as well.
In Lima, the dew point usually aligns closely with the temperature, enhancing the humid feel.
For more detailed information, you can check out the average humidity in Lima and yearly weather trends.
Average Wind in Lima, Peru
Wind patterns in Lima, Peru are influenced by the coastal geography and ocean currents.
The average wind speed varies throughout the year. Typically, it ranges from 5 to 10 mph.
Monthly Average Wind Speed:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 6 |
| February | 6 |
| March | 6 |
| April | 7 |
| May | 8 |
| June | 9 |
| July | 10 |
| August | 10 |
| September | 9 |
| October | 8 |
| November | 7 |
| December | 6 |
The windiest month is typically July, with average speeds reaching up to 10 mph.
Wind tends to be steadier in the afternoons and evenings due to the influence of the Humboldt Current along the coast.
This makes Lima a popular spot for wind sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Average Air Quality in Lima, Peru
Lima has a moderate level of air pollution. In 2019, Lima recorded an annual average PM2.5 level of 23.7 μg/m³. According to air quality standards, this places Lima in the ‘moderate’ pollution bracket, which ranges from 12.1 to 35.4 μg/m³.
Monthly Average PM2.5 Levels
| Month | PM2.5 Level (μg/m³) |
|---|---|
| January | 24 |
| February | 22 |
| March | 25 |
| April | 23 |
| May | 24 |
| June | 23 |
| July | 22 |
| August | 23 |
| September | 24 |
| October | 25 |
| November | 24 |
| December | 23 |
The PM2.5 levels indicate that air quality does not vary significantly month by month, staying within the moderate range.
Contributors to Air Quality
Lima’s air quality is influenced by several factors, including traffic emissions, industrial activities, and climatic conditions.
In El Niño years, changes in weather patterns such as increased temperatures and altered wind patterns can temporarily worsen air pollution levels.
Impact on Visibility
Poor air quality can also affect visibility, particularly in dense traffic areas and during times of high humidity.
Historical weather data shows that certain months with higher pollution levels may correspond with reduced visibility, impacting daily life and travel.
For more detailed information on Lima’s air quality, visit Lima Air Quality Index (AQI) and Peru Air Pollution.
Topography of Lima, Peru
Lima is located on the central coast of Peru, bordering the Pacific Ocean. It sits at an elevation of 446 feet above sea level. The city’s topography is diverse, featuring coastal plains, hills, and valleys.
Coastal Plains and Hills
Lima’s coastal plains stretch along the Pacific coastline. These plains are flat and sandy, typical of a subtropical desert climate. Inland, gentle hills and low mountains begin to rise, forming part of the foothills of the Andes mountains.
Subtropical Desert Landscape
Lima has a BWh classification, meaning it is a subtropical desert. The area receives very little rainfall, averaging less than one inch annually. The lack of vegetation and the dry landscape are characteristic features of the city’s topography.
Influence of the Andes
The Andes mountains play a significant role in Lima’s topography. They create a natural barrier that affects weather patterns, helping to create the desert conditions experienced in the city. These mountains provide a backdrop to Lima’s landscape.
Natural Features
- Elevation: 446 feet
- Climate: Subtropical desert (BWh)
- Annual Rainfall: Less than 1 inch
Climate data provides insights into Lima’s weather patterns, which are influenced by its topographical features. For more detailed weather statistics, such as monthly averages, visitors can explore resources like Weather Spark and Climates to Travel.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur in Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru, experiences a range of extreme weather events, primarily driven by its unique geographical location and climate patterns.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
While Lima is generally dry, periods of heavy rain can lead to significant flooding.
For example, in March 2023, torrential rains from a cyclone caused major flooding, resulting in at least six deaths. Rainfall totals reached around 12 inches, much higher than the average.
El Niño
El Niño events can bring unusually warm ocean waters to the coast of Peru, significantly affecting weather patterns.
These events can lead to increased rainfall and, subsequently, extreme flooding and landslides in Lima and other parts of the country.
Garúa
Lima often experiences a weather phenomenon known as garúa, a dense fog combined with airborne drizzle. This typically occurs between June and September. Although not dangerous, garúa can reduce visibility and make travel difficult.
Landslides
Heavy rains, especially those associated with El Niño, can trigger frequent landslides.
These landslides pose significant risks to homes built on the slopes of hills and mountains around Lima. The influx of rainwater destabilizes the soil, leading to these dangerous events.
Temperature Extremes
While Lima is known for its mild climate, temperature extremes can still occur.
During summer, temperatures can spike, and in winter, they can drop unusually low, though it rarely gets extremely hot or cold.
Monthly Rainfall and Temperature
| Month | Average Rainfall (inches) | Average High Temp (°F) | Average Low Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0.15 | 79 | 68 |
| February | 0.20 | 81 | 69 |
| March | 0.25 | 80 | 68 |
| April | 0.10 | 76 | 66 |
| May | 0.05 | 72 | 63 |
| June | 0.05 | 70 | 61 |
| July | 0.03 | 68 | 60 |
| August | 0.05 | 68 | 60 |
| September | 0.05 | 69 | 61 |
| October | 0.15 | 70 | 63 |
| November | 0.20 | 73 | 65 |
| December | 0.20 | 76 | 67 |
Best Time of the Year to Visit Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru, offers varying experiences across different seasons. The best time to visit depends on what activities you prefer and the type of weather you enjoy.
What Is Lima, Peru Like in Spring
From September to November, Lima experiences mild temperatures.
Spring is a great time to visit for those who prefer cooler weather and fewer tourists. September and October often see temperatures ranging between 60°F to 70°F, making it comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
Rain is scarce, and humidity levels are relatively low. This season is perfect for exploring the city’s museums and historical sites without the crowds. Make sure to pack a light jacket for the evenings, as temperatures can drop.
| **Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches)** |
|---|---|---|
| September | 60-70 | 0.1 |
| October | 62-72 | 0.1 |
| November | 64-74 | 0.1 |
What Is Lima, Peru Like in Summer
Summer in Lima, lasting from December to March, brings warm weather and sunny skies.
December and January are particularly popular months for tourists, with temperatures often reaching 80°F or higher. Expect busy beaches and packed tourist spots.
This is the best time for outdoor activities like visiting the coastline and enjoying seasonal festivals. January and February are the hottest and sunniest months, so bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated. Though the city is bustling, the vibrant atmosphere is worth experiencing.
| **Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches)** |
|---|---|---|
| December | 75-84 | 0.2 |
| January | 78-86 | 0.3 |
| February | 78-86 | 0.3 |
| March | 75-84 | 0.2 |
What Is Lima, Peru Like in Fall
Fall, from April to June, brings cooler weather and less humidity.
April is still warm due to lingering summer heat, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F. As you move into May and June, temperatures drop to around 60°F to 70°F.
Tourist numbers start to dwindle, making it a good time to visit major attractions without long lines. Rain remains minimal, making this season suitable for outdoor activities like walking tours and park visits. Evenings can be cool, so pack accordingly.
| **Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches)** |
|---|---|---|
| April | 70-80 | 0.2 |
| May | 65-75 | 0.1 |
| June | 60-70 | 0.1 |
What Is Lima, Peru Like in Winter
Winter spans from July to August and brings the coolest temperatures of the year.
During these months, temperatures typically range from 55°F to 65°F. The skies can be overcast, and there is a noticeable increase in humidity.
Though it’s not the peak tourist season, winter offers a different charm.
It’s a good time for travelers who prefer a quieter experience. Despite the cooler weather, Lima’s rich cultural attractions remain open.
Just be prepared for the misty mornings and occasional drizzle.
| **Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches)** |
|---|---|---|
| July | 55-65 | 0.2 |
| August | 55-65 | 0.1 |