Climate and monthly weather forecast
Johannesburg, South Africa

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The vast cityscape of Gauteng Province in Johannesburg, South Africa
The vast cityscape of Gauteng Province in Johannesburg, South Africa

The climate of Johannesburg

Boasting a Köppen climate classification of "Cwb", Johannesburg claims a Temperate Highland Tropical Climate with dry winters. It settles roughly at an altitude of 1,753 meters above sea level and located by 26.2041°S latitude, 28.0473°E longitude.

Over the course of a year, temperatures constantly present significant variations. Highs follow a semi-cyclical pattern, reaching a peak of 25.6°C (78.1°F) in January, dwindling to 16°C (60.8°F) in June, and climbing back to 25.2°C (77.4°F) in December. Lows oscillate likewise, peaking at 14.7°C (58.5°F) in January, down to 4.1°C (39.4°F) in June and July, and returning to 13.9°C (57°F) in December.

Humidity ranges from a maximum level of 70% in February, dips down to 46% between August and September, and steadily climbs back up to 69% by January. Rainfall displays an inverse relationship with humidity, soaring to an annual high of 125mm (4.92") in January, plunges to an annual low of 4mm (0.16") in July, then journeys back upwards to 105mm (4.13") by December.

The city basks in ample daylight throughout the year, ranging from 10.5 hours in June up to 13.8 hours by December. Meanwhile, the sunshine hours remain fairly consistent averaging above 8 hours per day, with slightly more hours recorded in the middle months. UV Index fluctuates between a low of 5 during winter and escalates to a maximum of 12 during summer, signifying a high protection caution.

The best time to visit Johannesburg

The favourable time to explore Johannesburg is from September to April. During these months, daily high temperatures reach 16.7°C (62.1°F) to 25.6°C (78.1°F), with the daily sunshine stretch of around 9 hours. The UV Index hits low-to-moderate levels, assuring less risk of sunburn. Rainfall remains minimal, especially between September and November, permitting outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Johannesburg

The unfavourable season to visit Johannesburg would be in the colder months, namely May through to August. The weather phenomenon is dominated by lower temperatures, diving to lows of 4.1°C (39.4°F). Coupled with relatively higher rainfall in May and decreased daylight hours, this period may not be ideal for traveller who seek outdoor adventures.

Spring weather in Johannesburg

Following the cold winter, spring ushers in pleasantly warmer temperatures, rising from lows of 4.1°C (39.4°F) to 9.3°C (48.7°F) and highs from 16.7°C (62.1°F) to 22.8°C (73°F) between August and October. Steadily increasing daylight hours and consistent sunshine assure delightful days, while the relative humidity level ascends from 46% to 56%. Rain invades mildly with the monthly average from 6mm (0.24") to 27mm (1.06").

Summer weather in Johannesburg

Signified by the onset of December, the summer in Johannesburg exhibits high temperatures, reaching an enviable 24.2°C (75.6°F) to 25.6°C (78.1°F). Decent daylight hours abound, from 13.4 to 13.8 hours, in combination with bountiful sunshine averaging about 8 hours. The city experiences increased rainfall, up to 125mm (4.92") in January, and relative humidity levels regularly hover around 69% - 70%, making it slightly humid.

Autumn weather in Johannesburg

Autumn ushers in a transition period, March to May. The temperatures exhibit a steady decline from highs of 24°C (75.2°F) to 18.9°C (66°F) and lows from 13.1°C (55.6°F) to 7.2°C (45°F). The increased daylight hours, ticking around 10.8 to 12.2 hours, ensure amply lit days. However, rainfall soars to 91mm (3.58") in March, before plummeting to a low of 13mm (0.51") by May.

Winter weather in Johannesburg

Winter, which runs from June to August, sees the temperature hover around lows of 4.1°C (39.4°F) to 6.2°C (43.2°F) and highs of 16°C (60.8°F) to 19.4°C (66.9°F). It's also the driest period in Johannesburg, with rainfall at its barest minimum, 4mm (0.16") to 6mm (0.24"). Despite reduced daylight hours, the city boasts about 9 hours of sunshine. The UV Index is also at its mildest, making winter a safe haven from the scorching sun.

Weather in January

January in Johannesburg, South Africa, experiences summer to its fullest, with the highest UV index of 12 throughout the year. Humidity levels show a significant increase this month, resulting in mornings filled with dew. Visitors and locals can expect intermittent rainfall, a common feature of summer months in Africa, creating a pleasant coolness in the afternoon hours. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Moving into February, Johannesburg's weather remains comparatively consistent with that of January. With the humidity levels remaining high, the city enjoys mild mornings filled with fresh summer vibes. Though rainfall lessens, it remains a common occurrence averaging a still significant 90mm (3.54"). Weather in February »

Weather in March

March signals an onset of the autumn season in Johannesburg, with a subtle cooling commencing in weather conditions. With lesser frequency and amount of rainfall, dry days become more common, creating bright, crystal clear skies throughout the month. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April brings further changes to Johannesburg's climate, introducing welcome freshness to the city's weather. With rainfall amounts dwindling to just 54mm (2.13"), April experiences a considerable decrease from the previous month, marking the beginning of the city's dry season. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May ushers in a significant transition in weather conditions in Johannesburg, as winter begins to encroach upon the city. Rainfall drops substantially this month, falling from 54mm (2.13") to a mere 13mm (0.51"), exemplifying the aridity of the coming winter months. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June represents the heart of winter in Johannesburg, with a marked drop in temperatures. Alongside the cooled temperatures, June observes the minimum levels of humidity and rainfall, with precipitation measuring just 9mm (0.35"). Despite the chill, residents continue to enjoy the city's winter sun, crystal clear skies, and longer sunlit hours. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July continues the winter spell in Johannesburg, with temperatures reflecting the chill of the season. Rainfall touches the yearly low, measuring an insignificant 4mm (0.16"), indicating virtually arid conditions throughout. Due to the decreased humidity and rainfall, the city enjoys bright, clear skies and plentiful sunshine. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Johannesburg signals the end of the winter season and the onset of spring. The return of slightly milder weather begins with a gradual increase in temperatures. With an insignificant increase in rainfall to 6mm (0.24"), the weather continues to stay predominantly dry and clear. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September marks the arrival of spring in Johannesburg, bringing noticeable climatic changes. With the rainfall gradually increasing to 27mm (1.06"), September provides relief from the dry conditions of the past months. The temperature too sees a moderate spike, adding to the pleasantness of the season. Weather in September »

Weather in October

In Johannesburg, October experiences the full swing of spring, showing a significant increase in temperatures and rainfall. The precipitation rises to 72mm (2.83"), a substantial increase from the 27mm (1.06") recorded in September. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Johannesburg showcases the passing spring season and the arrival of early summer. The city sees another increase in rainfall reaching 117mm (4.61"), coupled with a surge in humidity. November provides ideal weather conditions to witness Johannesburg in all its liveliness and colour. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December welcomes summer in Johannesburg, accompanied by a further rise in temperatures and continued high precipitation of 105mm (4.13"). The sun blazes down, with the UV index hitting the top of the scale. The heightened humidity offers a tropical charm to the city's appeal, while the extended daylight hours maximize time for outdoor activities. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What is the hottest time of year in Johannesburg?

January, recognised by an average high temperature of 25.6°C (78.1°F) and a low of 14.7°C (58.5°F), is Johannesburg's warmest month.

What is the rainiest month in Johannesburg?

January is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15.9 days and accumulates 125mm (4.92") of precipitation.

How many days does it rain in Johannesburg?

In Johannesburg, South Africa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 99.3 days and collects up to 713mm (28.07") of precipitation.

What are the months with the highest UV index in Johannesburg?

The months with the highest UV index in Johannesburg, South Africa, are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 12.

What is the most humid month in Johannesburg?

With an average relative humidity of 70%, February is the most humid month.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Johannesburg?

With an average of 7.7h of sunshine, March has the least sunshine of the year in Johannesburg, South Africa.

What are the coldest months in Johannesburg?

In Johannesburg, South Africa, the average lowest temperatures are observed in June, with a high of 16°C (60.8°F) and a low of 4.1°C (39.4°F).

What is the month with the shortest days in Johannesburg?

With an average of 10h and 30min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Johannesburg.

When is the lowest UV index in Johannesburg?

June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the lowest UV index in Johannesburg.

What is the driest month in Johannesburg?

July is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 1 days and accumulates 4mm (0.16") of precipitation.

What is the least humid month in Johannesburg?

With an average relative humidity of 46%, August is the least humid month in Johannesburg.

What month has the most sunshine in Johannesburg?

September has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 9.4h of sunshine.

When are the longest days in Johannesburg?

With an average of 13h and 48min of daylight, December has the longest days of the year.

Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg, South Africa, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). SAST timezone is used over the entire year.

Average temperature
Johannesburg, South Africa

Average temperature - Johannesburg, South Africa

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is January (25.6°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is June (16°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is January (14.7°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are June and July (4.1°C).

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Average humidity
Johannesburg, South Africa

Average humidity - Johannesburg, South Africa

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (70%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (46%).

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Average rainfall
Johannesburg, South Africa

Average rainfall - Johannesburg, South Africa

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is January (125mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (4mm).

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Average rainfall days
Johannesburg, South Africa

Average rainfall days - Johannesburg, South Africa

The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (15.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is July (1 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Johannesburg, South Africa

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Johannesburg, South Africa

The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 13h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 10h and 30min).

The month with the most sunshine is September (Average sunshine: 9h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is March (Average sunshine: 7h and 42min).

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Average UV index
Johannesburg, South Africa

Average UV index - Johannesburg, South Africa

The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 12).
The months with the lowest UV index are June and July (UV index 5).

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Johannesburg, South Africa

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