Lucknow features a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification *Cwa*), characterized by three distinct seasons: a sweltering summer, a wet monsoon, and a cool, dry winter.
* **Summer (March to June):** Extremely hot and dry, with average high temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in May and June. Heatwaves (known locally as *Loo*) are common. * **Monsoon (July to September):** The southwest monsoon brings relief from the heat, delivering the bulk of the city's average annual rainfall of about 896 mm (35 inches). Humidity levels rise significantly during this period. * **Winter (December to February):** Winters are generally pleasant and sunny, with daytime highs around 21°C to 25°C (70°F–77°F) and nighttime lows that can occasionally dip below 5°C (41°F). Dense fog is frequent in December and January.
The best time to visit Lucknow is between October and March, when the weather is cool and comfortable.