The climate of Hlotse
Hlotse has a temperate highland tropical climate, categorized under the Köppen climate classification as Cwb. This classification indicates that the main features of the climate are dry winters and a moderate, but distinct shift in temperature throughout the year.
On average, daytime temperatures peak at 25.9°C (78.6°F) and drop to a low of 13.5°C (56.3°F). This corresponds to a diurnal temperature range typical for regions within the tropics that experience significant altitude.
Relative humidity levels in Hlotse follow an annual cycle, peaking in
February at 66% and reaching a low in
September at 38%. Meanwhile, cloud cover follows a similar cycle, with the least amount of cloudiness seen from
July to September (7% cloud cover) and the most seen in the months of February and
December (24% cloud cover).
Rainfall in Hlotse is notably seasonal, following the broader weather patterns of Southern Africa. The wettest month is
January, with an average precipitation of 74mm (2.91"), while the driest month is July, when rainfall drops to an average of just 2mm (0.08").
In contrast, maximum wind speeds of up to 16.8km/h (10.4mph) are experienced during winter, indicating high wind chill factors.
The best time to visit Hlotse
Nestled in the highlands of
Lesotho,
Hlotse typically experiences the most favorable weather conditions in its summer months, from
December to
March. During this period, the town's weather manifests in relatively warm temperatures, ranging from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 25.9°C (78.6°F), making for an excellent time to engage in various outdoor activities. Despite the higher humidity levels, this period offers plenty of sunlight with an average of about 13.6 to 14 daylight hours per day, providing longer days for sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Hlotse
The harsh realities of winter in
Hlotse are not to be taken lightly. The winter season, characterized by the colder months of
June,
July, and
August, brings along an average low temperature of 2.5°C (36.5°F) to 4.6°C (40.3°F) along with sporadic snowfall. In addition, increased wind speeds experienced during these months intensify the cold weather conditions, making outdoor activities less inviting. Visitors are therefore advised to avoid this period or prepare for the cold conditions.
Spring weather in Hlotse
Spring in
Hlotse, which spans
September to
November, signals the transition from the harsh winter months to the warmer months. As the season progresses, temperatures climb from an average high of 22.4°C (72.3°F) in September to reach 24.4°C (75.9°F) by November. Additionally, visibility averages a healthy 10 km, making it a great time for photography or scenic drives.
Summer weather in Hlotse
December to
February in
Hlotse brings warm, wet summer weather. With temperatures ranging from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 25.9°C (78.6°F) coupled with the highest average rainfall measurements of 73mm (2.87") to 74mm (2.91"), these months mark the region's wet season. Nevertheless, these summer months can be quite comfortable, as relative humidity ranges only from 61% to 66%.
Autumn weather in Hlotse
Autumn in
Hlotse, covering the months of
March through
May, reveals a gradual reduction in average monthly temperatures from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 18.4°C (65.1°F). As this transition period unfolds, the town receives precipitation amounts that range from 43mm (1.69") to 7mm (0.28"). Despite the reduced daylight hours, sunshine remains fairly consistent, allowing for splendid autumnal scenes in the local landscape.
Winter weather in Hlotse
During the winter months of
June,
July, and
August,
Hlotse experiences colder weather with temperatures dropping to as low as 2.5°C (36.5°F). Cases of sporadic snowfall are not uncommon during these months, which adds a unique charm to the winter landscapes of the region. Furthermore, with average rainfall measurements from 6mm (0.24") to 10mm (0.39"), this period offers dryer days compared to other seasons. However, the increased wind speed could elevate the chill factor, making these months slightly less comfortable for visitors.
Weather in January
The
Lesotho city of
Hlotse enters the year embracing warm weather and challenges slightly higher amounts of rainfall. This month experiences peak temperatures of 25.9°C (78.6°F) as the highest and drops to 13.5°C (56.3°F) at its lowest.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Compared to
January,
Hlotse's weather in
February portrays a small dip in temperatures. The city continues to enjoy a warm climate that's accompanied by general humidity of 66%. The rainfall quantities also decrease maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March brings significant changes in
Hlotse's weather, marking the onset of autumn. This month contrasts the preceding one with a notable reduction in both humidity from 66% to 63% and rainfall from 66mm (2.6") to 43mm (1.69"). The city experiences a gradual shift in weather marked by declining temperatures.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Weather in
April witnesses further changes to the city's climate profile with decreasing temperatures and humidity. Compared to
March, the drop in both maximum and minimum temperatures is noticeable with a decrease from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 20.5°C (68.9°F) and 11°C (51.8°F) to 8.1°C (46.6°F) respectively.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Hlotse's weather in
May transitions significantly towards colder conditions as winter approaches ashore. Spotting a remarkable decrease from
April's rain frequency, May only brings 7mm (0.28") of rainfall to the city's landscapes. This month sees the winter chill taking a grip on the city with a consequent decrease in day temperature.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June welcomes the height of winter to
Hlotse, with a noticeable drop in temperatures, watering down to 15°C (59°F) as the highest. In comparison to the previous month, the rank temperature lowers further to a chilly 2.7°C (36.9°F) making it the year's coldest month.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Weather in
July brings a continuation of the winter pattern with few changes from
June. The lower temperatures make it equally chilly and brisk while the minute rainfall of only 2mm (0.08") means much clearer days. As July progresses, people start to acclimate to the colder temperatures.
Weather in July »Weather in August
Compared to
July,
Hlotse’s weather in
August displays signs of a transitioning climate as winter begins to wane off. Even though the temperatures are still low, they show a gradual increase with the maximum temperatures rising from 15.3°C (59.5°F) to 18.3°C (64.9°F).
Weather in August »Weather in September
September introduces the vibrant hues of Spring to
Hlotse with relatively warmer temperatures. The month is a refreshing departure from the preceding cold months though it records the highest wind speed of 11.7km/h (7.3mph). The rise in temperatures brings with it a buzzing life of fauna and flora.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Weather in
October brings more spring vibes in
Hlotse featuring an even warmer climate. The rainfall increases to 45mm (1.77") from
September's 11mm (0.43"), maintaining the vibrancy of the city's landscape. October is significantly warmer, making the city come alive with blooming flowers and lush green shrubs.
Weather in October »Weather in November
Hlotse's weather in
November exhibits subtle signs of summer with a rise in temperatures and increased rainfall. Marked by 65mm (2.56") of rain, it's the month experiencing increased precipitation after
March. The city transitions toward a tropical climate, making the landscape glow in multiple shades of green.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December concludes the year with the highest monthly average relative humidity of 61%, reinforcing the tropical vibe of
Hlotse. The high temperatures range from 25.5°C (77.9°F) to 13.5°C (56.3°F) experienced in
January making it one of the hottest months.
Weather in December » [Resources]