The climate of Mapoteng
Characterized by its highland tropical climate,
Mapoteng,
Lesotho falls under the Köppen climate classification of Cwb, signifying a temperate zone with typically dry winters. Throughout the year, this geographical area experiences variations in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and other weather elements.
Heat periods in Mapoteng register top temperatures ranging from 13.6°C (56.5°F) in winter (
June and
July) to a more balmy 26.1°C (79°F) during the hottest summer month (
January). The lowest temperatures follow a similar pattern, hitting hottest points in January at 14.8°C (58.6°F), and dipping to an average low of 2.1°C (35.8°F) and 2.2°C (36°F) in June and July respectively.
Monthly rainfall in Mapoteng fluctuates, with January and
December experiencing the most generous showers at 65mm (2.56") and 71mm (2.8") respectively. Conversely, the mid-year months from
April to
August receive the least amount of rainfall, demonstrating an inching pattern of 8mm (0.31") to 9mm (0.35"). The number of rainfall days follow the similar trend, peaking at 15.9 days in January, and speckling down to a mere 2.8 and 3.3 days in June and July.
Apart from the standard elements of weather, Mapoteng also undergoes variations in sunshine hours, humidity levels, and wind speeds. The town sees peak sunshine days in June and July at 27.5 to 26.3 days while the least sunshine days occur in January with 11 days. Notably, the snowfall in Mapoteng happens only during the winter months of June through August, with snowfall amount revealing a maximum of 7mm (0.28") in July.
The best time to visit Mapoteng
Considering that
Mapoteng's weather conditions vastly vary throughout the year, the ideal time to visit would arguably be the spring months, between
September and
November. During this period, the temperatures are moderate, hovering from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 24.2°C (75.6°F), and rainfall is not as intense as in the summer months, with an average of 9mm (0.35") to 45mm (1.77"). Sunshine hours range between 11.8 to 11.7 hours, and the duration of daylight is also extensive, providing ample opportunity for outdoor exploration.
The worst time to visit Mapoteng
Due to the harsh cold temperatures and snowfall, the winter months of
June to
August may not be suitable for travel to
Mapoteng. During these months, temperatures dip to as low as 2.1°C (35.8°F), with the highest not exceeding much beyond 13°C (55.4°F). Though the area experiences longer periods of sunshine during these months, the conditions might be too severe for outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Mapoteng
Spring in
Mapoteng, spanning from
September to
November, brings an enjoyable passage of weather. Temperatures are pleasant, showing an average high of 21.2°C (70.2°F) in September and reaching 24.2°C (75.6°F) by November. Lows are relatively higher during this period, ranging from 7.7°C (45.9°F) to 11.9°C (53.4°F). Rainfall is relatively moderate, while the number of sunshine hours stands around 11.7 hours in November.
Summer weather in Mapoteng
Summer in
Mapoteng runs from
December to
February, showing an upward trend in temperatures with highs reaching from 25.5°C (77.9°F) to 26.1°C (79°F). However, this period also marks the peak of the rainy season, with rainfall quantities rising up to a maximum of 71mm (2.8") in December. Nevertheless, the sunshine persists, averaging about 11.6 hours a day.
Autumn weather in Mapoteng
Marking a transition from the heavy rains of summer to a drier climate, Autumn in
Mapoteng, from
March to
May, features a decrease in rainfall from 42mm (1.65") to 8mm (0.31"). Concurrently, temperature profiles cool down, with high temperatures fluctuating from 23.8°C (74.8°F) in March to 17.1°C (62.8°F) by May and low temperatures moving from 11.3°C (52.3°F) to 5.2°C (41.4°F) in the same duration.
Winter weather in Mapoteng
Winter in
Mapoteng runs from
June to
August, representing the coldest months of the year. During this time, the high temperature reaches only up to 13.6°C (56.5°F) to 17.1°C (62.8°F), and low temperature, chilling at 2.1°C (35.8°F) to 4.2°C (39.6°F). Furthermore, this period embraces beautiful snowfall, particularly from June to
July, creating a breathtaking winter landscape, albeit potentially challenging travel conditions.
Weather in January
January in
Mapoteng,
Lesotho, sees fluctuating temperatures, along with a mix of rainfall and sunshine. The year begins with a generous number of sunshine hours, keeping the city bright despite the rainfall. Accompanying the warmth, this period experiences the month’s highest humidity, indicating a significant moisture content in the air.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Following the modestly wet
January,
February in
Mapoteng continues to experience high temperatures, with rainfall slightly falling back. The sun continues to shine generously, reducing cloudiness and keeping the atmosphere clear.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In
March,
Mapoteng’s weather starts to mildly cool down, indicating the onset of Autumn. Dip in temperature aligns with a receding frequency of rainfall, ushering in drier days. A discernible reduction in daylight and sunshine begins in March, marking fewer sunlit hours per day.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in
Mapoteng, in
April, sees a deeper dive into Autum as temperatures see a significant drop further. With the decrease in temperature, rainfall continues to taper off, resulting in a sayonara to the Autumn showers. The lowering afternoon temperatures, coupled with the steady drop in rainfall, characterize the month of April.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Upon entering
May,
Mapoteng steps into the winter zone of the climatic calendar. The city experiences substantial retreat in rain, as the post-autumn chilling winter makes its presence felt. The diminishing daylight hours and falling temperatures signify the deeper dive into winter.
Weather in May »Weather in June
With
June,
Mapoteng finds itself deep into the winter months. A profound drop in temperature is accompanied by a notable reduction in rainfall, making it one of the driest months of the year. Temperature extremes range from 2.1°C (35.8°F) to 13.6°C (56.5°F), marking the onset of the coldest period.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The weather in
July,
Mapoteng's coldest month, continues to record low temperatures, with chilly nights becoming a staple. Reduced sunshine hours and limited daylight characterize the month. With temperatures reaching a low of 2.2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 13.8°C (56.8°F), it is the city's chilliest period.
Weather in July »Weather in August
With
August’s arrival,
Mapoteng begins to witness a mild relief from the biting cold. Temperature only slightly rises, signifying the slow march towards spring. Though days continue to remain relatively short, they gradually start to get longer.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September ushers in warmer days in
Mapoteng with the advent of Spring. As the temperature significantly climbs, rainfall makes a slight comeback, providing the impetus for the blossoming vegetation. Temperatures from the month vary from 7.7°C (45.9°F) to 21.2°C (70.2°F) showcasing a substantial increase from the preceding month.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October, a transitory phase between spring and summer, carries a pleasant weather vibe in
Mapoteng. Temperatures continue their upward climb, making the days warmer. Displaying an increase in daylight hours, UV index, and warmer afternoons affirm the steady transition to the next climatic phase.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings a warm welcome to summer in
Mapoteng, characterized by soaring temperatures and amplified rainfall. The higher UV index and extended sunshine hours substantiate the advent of a bright summer season. The temperature swings from 11.9°C (53.4°F) to 24.2°C (75.6°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December offers the true essence of summer in
Mapoteng, with the thermometer readings peaking. Extended daylight hours are complemented by a high UV index, pointing to a rise in solar intensity. A further ascent in temperature is realized, ranging from 13.8°C (56.8°F) to a summery high of 25.5°C (77.9°F).
Weather in December » [Resources]