When you picture winter in Monrovia, you won’t find cold winds or snow. Instead, you step into warm days, sticky air, and just a short break from the heavy rains that dominate most of the year.
Winter in Monrovia brings steady warmth, with average temperatures hanging out between the mid-70s and upper-80s Fahrenheit.
From December through February, you get the driest stretch of the year. Rainfall drops off sharply, and the skies open up more often.
This makes winter the most comfortable time for outdoor plans, whether you want to explore the coastline, wander the city’s lively streets, or just spend time by the water.
Humidity still hangs around, but the mix of sunshine and fewer wet days creates a balance that many people find ideal.
Daylight hours stay close to 12 throughout the season, so you have consistent chances to get outside and avoid the worst storms that roll in later.
Overview of Monrovia’s Winter Climate
In Monrovia, Liberia, winter means warm temperatures, high humidity, and moderate rainfall.
The season brings steady tropical conditions with only small shifts in cloud cover, wind, and precipitation.
Tropical Monsoon Climate Characteristics
Monrovia sits in a tropical monsoon climate, so the weather stays warm and humid year-round.
Winter doesn’t bring cold air. Daily highs usually hit around 88°F (31°C), and lows linger near 74–75°F (23–24°C).
Humidity stays high, and muggy conditions stick around nearly every day. The dew point sits in the mid-70s, making the air feel heavy and damp.
Even at night, the humidity barely lets up.
Rainfall lightens up in winter compared to the rainy season, but you’ll still see some showers. On average, you get about 1 to 2 inches of rain per month from December through February, which is far less than in the summer.
This climate type is Af (tropical rainforest) or Am (tropical monsoon) under Köppen’s system, showing year-round warmth and regular precipitation.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
In winter, you’ll notice small but steady changes in Monrovia’s weather compared to the rest of the year.
Temperatures stay stable, rarely dropping below 70°F (21°C) or climbing above 91°F (33°C).
Cloud cover increases as the season goes on. Early December gives you more clear skies, but by February, overcast days become a bit more common.
Still, you’ll catch plenty of sunshine.
Rainfall drops as the season moves forward. The chance of a wet day falls from about 13% in December to 10% in February.
January ends up as one of the driest months, with some days barely seeing any rain.
Winds shift a bit in winter. Early on, breezes come from the south, but by late December, they start turning westward.
Average wind speeds stay light, around 5–6 mph, so you won’t get much relief from the humidity.
Geographic Influences on Climate
Monrovia’s spot on the Atlantic shapes its winter weather a lot.
The city sits right on the ocean, with water covering nearly 80% of the area within 2 miles.
This keeps temperatures steady and stops big swings between day and night.
The ocean stays warm in winter, averaging 81–83°F (27–28°C). These sea temperatures help lock in Monrovia’s humid air and cut the chance of cooler weather.
Monrovia’s low elevation, about 16 feet above sea level, also helps keep its climate steady.
You don’t get much variation in altitude to affect local temperatures.
Nearby vegetation and water—rivers, mangroves, and so on—add to the high humidity.
All these factors combine with the ocean’s influence to make sure winter stays warm and damp.
Temperature Trends During Winter
Winter in Monrovia, Liberia, means steady warmth, not much difference between day and night, and a clear drop in rain compared to the wet season.
You can expect it to be hot, but honestly, it’s more comfortable than during the peak rains.
Average Highs and Lows
From December through February, average high temperatures in Monrovia usually range from 28.7°C (83.7°F) to 29.9°C (85.8°F).
These numbers barely move, so you won’t see big jumps in daytime heat.
Average lows stick close to 25°C (77°F), which keeps evenings and nights warm.
Unlike places that cool off a lot after sunset, Monrovia’s coastal spot keeps things steady.
Humidity is still there, but it’s less intense than in the rainy months, making it easier to get outside.
If you’re planning time outdoors, you’ll get a predictable daily pattern—no wild swings.
Monthly Temperature Variations
- December: Highs near 29°C (84°F); lows around 25°C (77°F).
- January: Slightly warmer highs close to 29.9°C (85.8°F); lows steady at 25.2°C (77.4°F).
- February: Highs near 29°C (84°F) and lows about 25°C (77°F).
This narrow range really shows off the tropical monsoon climate.
You won’t notice much change from month to month, so packing light, breathable clothes works for the whole season.
The steady temperatures also mean you can plan activities without worrying about sudden cold snaps or heat waves.
Instead, little changes in humidity and sunshine hours shape how the weather feels each day.
Comparison to Other Seasons
Compared to the rainy season (May to November), winter is both drier and sunnier.
Highs during the rainy months can dip a bit to around 26–27°C (79–81°F), but the heavy humidity and cloud cover make it feel less comfortable.
Spring and early summer bring rising humidity and more rain, even though temperatures stay close to winter levels.
Winter, though, gives you more sunshine and fewer rainy days, making it the most reliable season for travel.
You’ll find that temperature differences between seasons are small in Monrovia, but the change in rainfall and cloud cover makes winter stand out as the best time to be outdoors.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Monrovia gets a ton of rain each year, but there’s a big difference between the wettest and driest months.
You can expect heavy downpours during the peak rainy season, while winter brings a real drop in rain and shorter spells of light showers.
Monthly Rainfall Averages
Rain doesn’t spread out evenly through the year in Monrovia.
The city logs 3,500–4,600 mm of precipitation annually, making it one of West Africa’s wettest capitals.
The wettest stretch hits from June to September, when monthly totals often top 500–600 mm.
By contrast, January and February are the driest, with rainfall dropping to about 80–100 mm.
Here’s a quick look:
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days (avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| January | ~88 | 2–3 |
| September | ~550 | 25+ |
This sharp contrast really shows how much the climate shifts.
Dry Season Characteristics
The dry season in Monrovia runs from December through February.
During this time, you’ll see far fewer rainy days, clearer skies, and slightly warmer daytime temperatures.
Humidity still sticks around, but the air feels less heavy than during the peak rainy months.
Rainfall is light and rare, making it easier to get outside and travel reliably.
Even in the driest months, Monrovia never gets totally rain-free.
Short showers can still pop up, but overall, precipitation is minimal compared to the rest of the year.
Incidence of Light Rain
Light rain is most common during the shift between rainy and dry seasons.
You might run into brief showers or drizzle that last only a short time, often in the mornings.
In the dry season, these light showers replace the heavy downpours from earlier in the year.
They usually measure less than a few millimeters but keep the city’s air moist year-round.
So, you should always expect some kind of rain, even in months with low totals.
That’s just how Monrovia’s tropical climate works—true dryness is pretty rare.
Humidity and Atmospheric Conditions
During winter in Monrovia, the air stays heavy with moisture, even though rain lets up.
Humidity remains high, so the atmosphere often feels warm and damp.
This can affect your comfort, daily activities, and even your health.
Average Humidity Levels
From December to February, Monrovia’s average relative humidity usually sits between 76% and 80%.
That’s a bit lower than during the peak rainy season, but it still feels humid.
Mornings tend to feel especially damp, with humidity near its daily high.
By afternoon, levels ease up a little as temperatures rise, though the difference isn’t huge.
Even with less rain in winter, cloud cover and moisture in the air keep things humid.
You’ll see more sun than in the rainy months, but the air never really feels dry.
This mix of sun, heat, and humidity shapes the season’s weather.
Humidity Fluctuations in Winter
Humidity in Monrovia doesn’t jump around much from day to day.
It usually stays between 76% at its lowest and 80–82% at its peak.
These small changes tie into rainfall and the daily cycle of heating and cooling.
During December, humidity hits its lowest point of the year, but it’s still high compared to many places.
As January and February roll on, the air gets a bit more humid, even though rain stays limited.
The steady humidity means you almost never get a “dry” day in Monrovia.
Even with clear skies, moisture hangs in the air.
For travelers, this creates a predictable feel, with few surprises in how the weather hits you.
Effects on Comfort and Health
High humidity changes how your body handles heat.
In Monrovia’s winter, temperatures average around 28–30°C (82–86°F), but the humidity makes it feel even warmer.
You might find yourself getting tired faster if you’re outside for long stretches.
Sweat evaporates more slowly, so your body doesn’t cool as easily.
Wearing light clothes, drinking plenty of water, and finding shade during peak sun can help.
Some people might feel a bit uncomfortable with all the dampness, especially if they aren’t used to humid climates.
On the plus side, the steady humidity means you’re less likely to deal with dry skin or respiratory irritation that’s common in drier places.
Knowing what to expect helps you prepare for both comfort and health while enjoying Monrovia’s warm winter.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Winter in Monrovia brings shorter sunshine hours, steady daylight, and plenty of cloud cover.
You can expect modest daily sunshine compared to the dry season, with cloudier skies limiting direct sunlight.
Average Sunshine Duration
During winter, Monrovia averages about 4 to 5 hours of sunshine per day.
January clocks in around 5 hours, with December about the same.
By February, sunshine hours bump up a bit, getting close to 6 hours on average.
So, you get less than half the available daylight as direct sun.
For comparison, March—just after winter—offers over 6 hours daily, showing how things change with the seasons.
| Month | Avg. Sunshine Hours/Day | % of Daylight Sunny |
|---|---|---|
| December | ~5h 00m | 43% |
| January | ~5h 05m | 44% |
| February | ~5h 54m | 50% |
If you’re planning to get outside, mornings often give you clearer skies.
Afternoons tend to be cloudier, and that pattern sticks around most of the season.
Daylight Hours in Winter
Daylight in Monrovia barely changes during the year, thanks to its spot near the equator.
In winter, you usually see about 11 hours 45 minutes to 12 hours of daylight each day.
December brings the shortest days, averaging 11 hours 45 minutes.
By February, daylight stretches to nearly 12 hours.
The gap between the longest and shortest days is less than 45 minutes, so you won’t notice much of a swing.
This consistency makes planning easy.
You can count on sunrise around 6:30 a.m. and sunset near 6:30 p.m. all season long.
Impact of Cloud Cover
Cloud cover really shapes how much sun you get in winter. Even if you technically have almost 12 hours of daylight, the skies tend to look hazy or partly cloudy most days.
About 50–57% of daylight hours stay cloudy from December through February. So, more than half the day might feel overcast or shaded, even when it’s not raining.
High humidity in the area makes this even more noticeable, adding a heavy feel to the air and cutting down on your chances to see direct sun.
If you’re traveling, you’ll probably notice the softer light. It’s actually pretty comfortable for walking tours, markets, or just hanging outside.
But if you’re hoping for strong, direct sunshine—like for the beach—you’ll find there are fewer hours of it than during the dry season peaks.
Travel Considerations for Winter Visits
Winter in Monrovia brings warm temperatures, low rainfall, and steady humidity. You can expect pretty comfortable conditions for sightseeing, with far fewer weather issues than in the wet season.
Best Months to Visit
The dry season in Monrovia runs from December through February. These months offer the most reliable weather for travel, with average highs around 88–90°F (31–32°C) and lows near 74°F (23°C).
Rain almost never shows up, so you can count on making outdoor plans.
Tourism hits its peak in December and January. Hotels and flights usually cost more, so booking early can help you get better deals.
February tends to be a bit less crowded but still has the same dry, warm weather. If you’re after the best mix of comfort and affordability, February often works out best.
Since temperatures stay steady, you won’t run into sudden cold snaps. Instead, you’ll get reliable warmth, which makes winter a great time to explore the city or the coast.
Outdoor Activities and Weather
Dry weather makes winter perfect for checking out Monrovia’s beaches, markets, and cultural spots. You can hang out outside for hours without worrying about rain.
The Atlantic stays warm for swimming, and visibility is usually good for coastal walks.
Humidity sticks around, hovering between 76–81%, so the air can feel heavy, even if it’s not raining. Light breezes along the coast do help, but inland it might feel a bit more humid.
Try to plan your activities for mornings or late afternoons to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Outdoor dining, walking tours, and day trips to nearby towns are all pretty doable this time of year. Roads are easier to manage too, since you won’t have to deal with flooding or muddy messes like in the wet season.
Packing Tips for Winter Travel
Pack light, breathable clothes—think cotton or linen—because it stays warm day and night. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves since the sun is still strong in winter.
Bring comfy walking shoes for the city and sandals for the beach. Rain is rare, but tossing in a small umbrella or light jacket isn’t a bad idea for those surprise showers.
With all the humidity, you’ll want moisture-wicking clothes to stay comfortable. Don’t forget insect repellent, especially if you’ll be out in the evenings.
A reusable water bottle will help keep you hydrated in the heat.
Winter Weather in the Context of Liberia’s Seasons
Winter in Monrovia happens during the dry season, when rainfall drops, skies look clearer, and humidity stays high. The climate shifts between wet and dry periods, with the Atlantic Ocean and West African monsoon shaping the weather.
Transition Between Dry and Rainy Seasons
Liberia’s year splits into two big periods: the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). Winter months—December, January, and February—sit right in the dry season.
You can expect lower rainfall totals compared to the wet months. For example, January averages about 1 inch of rain, while August can get over 20 inches.
Humidity doesn’t really drop as much as you might hope. Most days still feel muggy, and dew points stay high.
Showers are less common and usually don’t last long.
Monsoon Influence on Winter
The West African monsoon system drives Liberia’s seasonal rhythm. In summer, moist air from the Atlantic brings heavy rain.
By winter, the monsoon pulls back, and drier air takes over the region. In Monrovia, this means you’ll see fewer cloudy days and more sunshine.
Average daily rainfall drops to its lowest point, and the odds of a wet day go below 15%.
Even in the dry season, the air stays humid because Monrovia sits right on the coast. Sea surface temperatures usually hover between 81°F and 83°F, which keeps the atmosphere pretty moist.
Regional Variations Across Liberia
Monrovia gets a clear dry season in winter, but honestly, weather across Liberia doesn’t always follow the same script. Coastal spots like Buchanan and Harper usually see less rain and plenty of humidity, though the vibe inland can feel a bit different.
Cities like Gbarnga or Zwedru, tucked away from the coast, often heat up more during the day. At night, you might notice it cools down a bit more than it does by the ocean.
You’ll probably find that rainfall drops off in the north and central regions compared to Monrovia. If you’re thinking about heading outside the capital, keep in mind that local weather can really change up the roads and visibility.