Weather overview
Лусака sits on a high plateau, giving it a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. From November to March, the city experiences its rainy period, with frequent showers and warm temperatures. The rest of the year is mostly dry, offering clear skies and cooler evenings, especially from May to August.
Travelers visiting Лусака in the dry season will find comfortable conditions for exploring, while the wet season brings lush greenery but also occasional downpours. The transition months, like April and October, can be unpredictable, with shifting weather patterns.
Temperature
Temperatures in Лусака remain mild year-round, with daytime highs rarely exceeding +34 °C in October and lows dipping to +12.4 °C in July. The warmest months are September and October, just before the rains begin, when the mercury often climbs above +30 °C.
From May to August, Лусака cools down noticeably, with nights feeling crisp. Daytime temperatures hover around +26...+28 °C, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities. The shift in April and September is gradual, with temperatures adjusting as the seasons change.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 21.1 | 27.9 |
| February | 21.3 | 28.8 |
| March | 20.1 | 29.6 |
| April | 18.1 | 28 |
| May | 14.5 | 28 |
| June | 12.9 | 27.1 |
| July | 12.4 | 26.7 |
| August | 15 | 29.5 |
| September | 19.8 | 32.8 |
| October | 21.4 | 34.3 |
| November | 21.9 | 32.1 |
| December | 21.5 | 30.4 |
Precipitation
Лусака sees most of its rainfall between November and March, with January typically the wettest month. Showers are often heavy but short-lived, giving way to sunshine. The dry season, from April to October, brings almost no rain, with June and July being particularly arid.
If you’re visiting Лусака during the wet season, expect occasional disruptions to travel plans, especially in rural areas. The dry months offer reliable conditions, though dust can be an issue before the rains return in November.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 98 |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | 0 |
| May | — |
| June | 0.2 |
| July | 0.5 |
| August | 0 |
| September | 0 |
| October | 0 |
| November | 80.6 |
| December | 58 |
What to pack
For a trip to Лусака in the dry season, pack lightweight clothing for daytime warmth and a light jacket for cooler evenings. From May to August, layers are useful, as temperatures drop after sunset. A hat and sunscreen are essential year-round due to the strong sun at this altitude.
During the wet season, waterproof footwear and a compact umbrella will help you navigate Лусака’s sudden downpours. Quick-drying fabrics are practical, as humidity rises in November and December. Mosquito protection is also wise, especially in the rainy months.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 1.1 |
| February | 1.1 |
| March | 1 |
| April | 1.1 |
| May | 1.1 |
| June | 1.3 |
| July | 1.5 |
| August | 1.8 |
| September | 2.1 |
| October | 2.2 |
| November | 1.6 |
| December | 1.3 |