Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lesotho

Lesotho, a landlocked country, is nestled within the borders of South Africa. Its topography is defined by highlands and the towering Drakensberg and Maloti mountain ranges. These geographical features significantly contribute to Lesotho's unique weather patterns. Despite being in southern Africa, the country is dominated by a Cfb or oceanic climate, as per the Köppen climate classification. This climate type leads to cool summers and mild winters with relatively small fluctuations in annual temperature. Throughout the year, the country experiences a moderate climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 30°C (86°F). The average annual rainfall is approximately 800mm (31.5"), most of which falls during the southern hemisphere's summer months between October and April.

The ideal time to visit Lesotho depends primarily on the activities one plans to indulge in. Generally, the period between October and April is favored by many due to the pleasant weather conditions. Temperatures during these months range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), offering a comfortable environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This time also coincides with the rainy season, making the scenery particularly lush and beautiful, especially for those interested in photography or nature.

Given Lesotho's high altitude, winter can be particularly severe, making it the least favorable time for many tourists. The winter season runs from June to August. During this time, temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), particularly in the mountainous regions where heavy snowfall is common. Traveling in the country can be challenging during this period due to the risk of road closures from snow and icy conditions.

In Lesotho, spring spans from September to November. During this season, the country slowly emerges from winter's chill. Temperatures gradually rise, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation starts to increase, paving the way for the rainy season. The landscapes become increasingly verdant, with flowers blooming, offering spectacular views for visitors.

Summer in Lesotho, from December to February, brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). However, due to the country's high altitude, the heat is not typically excessive or unbearable. This season also marks the onset of the rainy season. Rainfall is frequently in the form of afternoon thunderstorms, making mornings the best time for outdoor activities. Despite the rain, summer remains a vibrant and beautiful time to visit Lesotho.

Autumn in Lesotho falls between March and May. During this period, temperatures start to cool down, fluctuating between 10°C (50°F) and 25°C (77°F). Rainfall begins to decrease as the season progresses, and the weather generally remains mild and pleasant. This is a great time to visit for those who prefer less rainfall and milder temperatures.

Winter in Lesotho, lasting from June to August, is cold and dry. Temperatures can plunge below 0°C (32°F), particularly in the higher altitudes. Snowfall is common in the mountainous regions, and frost is a regular sight in the mornings across the country. Despite the cold, the winter season offers crystal clear skies and the opportunity for winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy skiing in the Afriski Mountain Resort. However, it's essential to prepare for potential travel disruptions due to the weather conditions.

January, falling within Lesotho's summer season, is characterized by relatively warm temperatures and high rainfall. Across the country, temperatures range from an average low of 15°C (59°F) to a high of 30°C (86°F). However, the climate can vary quite significantly between regions due to the altitudinal differences. Weather in January »

February continues the trend of warm and wet weather in Lesotho, as it is still the height of the southern hemisphere's summer. The average temperatures across the country generally fall between 15°C (59°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Weather in February »

March ushers in the beginning of autumn in Lesotho, offering a transition from the summer's warmth and rainfall to the cooler, drier conditions of winter. During this month, the average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F), indicating a noticeable drop from the hotter summer months. Weather in March »

April is in the heart of the autumn season in Lesotho. During this time, the temperatures continue to decrease in anticipation of winter, ranging between 5°C (41°F) and 20°C (68°F). The capital city, Maseru, situated in the western lowlands, enjoys slightly higher temperatures. Weather in April »

May marks the end of autumn and the onset of winter in Lesotho. This month sees a significant decrease in temperature, with average ranges falling between 0°C (32°F) and 15°C (59°F). The lower altitude regions, including Maseru, maintain slightly warmer temperatures, while the higher altitude areas, such as Thaba-Tseka, begin to experience a chill indicative of the coming winter. Precipitation in May drops to an average of about 30mm (1.18"), making it one of the driest months of the year. Weather in May »

June signals the arrival of winter in Lesotho, bringing with it the coldest temperatures of the year. The average temperatures during this month fall drastically, typically ranging between -5°C (23°F) and 10°C (50°F). The lower regions, such as Maseru, experience milder conditions, while higher altitudes, including Thaba-Tseka, brace for significantly cooler weather, often dipping below freezing point. June is among the driest months in Lesotho, with precipitation levels dropping to 20mm (0.79"). Weather in June »

July is deep within the winter season in Lesotho, typically the coldest month of the year. The average temperatures during this time often dip below freezing, generally ranging between -7°C (19.4°F) to 7°C (44.6°F). Regions at lower altitudes, like Maseru, have slightly milder conditions. Weather in July »

August marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in Lesotho, with temperatures starting to rise gradually. The average temperatures typically range from -3°C (26.6°F) to 12°C (53.6°F). While this still denotes cold weather, it is slightly warmer than the freezing conditions experienced in July. Weather in August »

September ushers in the full swing of spring in Lesotho. During this month, temperatures continue their upward trend, generally ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 20°C (68°F). The lower altitude regions, including Maseru, begin to experience milder, more comfortable temperatures, while the highlands, such as Thaba-Tseka, remain cooler but less frigid than in previous months. The average precipitation in September increases to approximately 50mm (1.97"), marking a significant rise from the drier winter months. Weather in September »

October in Lesotho signifies the height of the spring season, a period characterized by rising temperatures and increased rainfall. During this month, temperatures typically vary from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). Regions with lower altitudes, such as Maseru, enjoy warmer weather, while areas at higher altitudes, including Thaba-Tseka, encounter cooler temperatures but still significantly warmer than the winter months. Precipitation levels in October rise substantially, reaching an average of 80mm (3.15"). Weather in October »

November marks the transition from spring to summer in Lesotho. The average temperatures during this month range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), indicating a substantial increase compared to the previous months. In lower altitude regions like Maseru, temperatures can occasionally climb towards the higher end of this range, while higher altitude areas such as Thaba-Tseka, although warmer than in spring, remain relatively cooler. The average precipitation in November escalates to approximately 100mm (3.94"), as Lesotho heads towards the peak of its rainy season. Weather in November »

December brings the start of summer in Lesotho, with this month typically being one of the warmest in the year. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), similar to November. However, the heat can often be more intense in the lower altitude regions like Maseru, while the higher altitude areas, such as Thaba-Tseka, maintain cooler conditions due to their elevation. Precipitation in December reaches its peak for the year, with an average of about 120mm (4.72"). Weather in December »