Lisbon Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Lisbon, Lisbon Region, Portugal. The figures are based on a 30-year period (1990–2020) to provide a reliable average. Let’s explore the details to provide you with a complete overview.

Generally, Lisbon receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 587 mm annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm)

Lisbon can be quite wet during November, receiving approximately 84 mm of precipitation over 13 rainy days.

In contrast July, experiences much drier conditions, with 3.5 mm of rainfall, spread across 2 rainy days.

November, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 18°C. The city receives 155 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month July you can expect a temperature of 27°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Lisbon Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in Portugal

The map below shows the annual precipitation across Portugal. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Lisbon’s average annual precipitation is 587 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

Chicago, USA, sees an annual precipitation of 1062 mm, with rain and snow contributing to its humid climate.

In Shanghai, China, the annual average precipitation is 1347 mm, with a humid subtropical climate.

Perth, Australia, receives 565 mm of rainfall annually, mostly during the winter months.

Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm of rainfall annually, with no distinct dry season and consistent monthly precipitation.

How is Precipitation Measured?

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

Global Warming and Precipitation

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Lisbon:

• Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
• Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.

For more detailed information about Lisbon’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Lisbon Climate page.