Climate and monthly weather forecastMapoteng, Lesotho
Climate and monthly weather forecast
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 »Updated: Feb 3, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
Mapoteng's January weather, marked by an average high temperature of 26.1°C (79°F) and an average low temperature of 14.8°C (58.6°F), is the warmest in the year.
In Mapoteng, Lesotho, during the entire year, the rain falls for 106.2 days and collects up to 387mm (15.24") of precipitation.
January through May, September through December are months without snowfall in Mapoteng.
In Mapoteng, during the entire year, snow aggregates up to 13mm (0.51").
The months with the highest UV index are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
With an average relative humidity of 59%, February is the most humid month in Mapoteng, Lesotho.
The months with the lowest UV index in Mapoteng are May through July, with an average maximum UV index of 3.
Mapoteng, Lesotho, experiences its average lowest temperatures in June, reaching a peak of 13.6°C (56.5°F) and a minimum of 2.1°C (35.8°F).
Months with snowfall are June through August.
The month with the shortest days in Mapoteng, Lesotho, is June, with an average of 10h and 18min of daylight.
July and August are months with the least rain in Mapoteng, Lesotho, when the rain falls for 3.3 days and typically aggregates up to 7mm (0.28") of rain.
The month with the most snowfall in Mapoteng, Lesotho, is July, when snow falls for 0.6 days and typically aggregates up to 7mm (0.28") of snow.
The month with the least sunshine in Mapoteng, Lesotho, is August, with an average of 7.4h of sunshine.
September is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 35%.
The month with the most sunshine in Mapoteng, Lesotho, is October, with an average of 11.8h of sunshine.
December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15.7 days and accumulates 71mm (2.8") of precipitation.
The month with the longest days in Mapoteng is December, with an average of 14h and 0min of daylight.
Mapoteng, Lesotho, does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). SAST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is January (26.1°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is June (13.6°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is January (14.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is June (2.1°C).
Average pressure
Mapoteng, Lesotho
- Average pressure in January:
1013.6mbar - Average pressure in February:
1014.8mbar - Average pressure in March:
1016.8mbar - Average pressure in April:
1019.9mbar - Average pressure in May:
1021.9mbar - Average pressure in June:
1024.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1025.3mbar - Average pressure in August:
1022.1mbar - Average pressure in September:
1019.1mbar - Average pressure in October:
1016.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1014.5mbar - Average pressure in December:
1013.5mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1025.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is December (1013.5mbar).
Average wind speed
Mapoteng, Lesotho
- Average wind speed in January:
9km/h - Average wind speed in February:
8km/h - Average wind speed in March:
8.1km/h - Average wind speed in April:
7.6km/h - Average wind speed in May:
7km/h - Average wind speed in June:
7.6km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
7.4km/h - Average wind speed in August:
9.1km/h - Average wind speed in September:
10.4km/h - Average wind speed in October:
10.7km/h - Average wind speed in November:
11.1km/h - Average wind speed in December:
10.2km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is November (11.1km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is May (7km/h).
Average humidity
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The month with the highest relative humidity is February (59%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is September (35%).
Average rainfall
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (71mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are July and August (7mm).
Average rainfall days
Mapoteng, Lesotho
- Average rainfall days in January:
15.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
13.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
9.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
3.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
2.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
3.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
3.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
5.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in December:
15.7 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (15.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (2.8 days).
Average snowfall
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The month with the highest snowfall is July (7mm).
The months with the least snowfall are January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November and December (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Mapoteng, Lesotho
- Average snowfall days in January:
0 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0.8 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is June (0.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November and December (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Mapoteng, Lesotho
- Average daylight in January:
13h and 48min - Average daylight in February:
13h and 6min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 18min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 24min - Average daylight in May:
10h and 42min - Average daylight in June:
10h and 18min
- Average daylight in July:
10h and 30min - Average daylight in August:
11h and 6min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 48min - Average daylight in November:
13h and 36min - Average daylight in December:
14h and 0min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 14h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 10h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
11h and 36min - Average sunshine in February:
11h and 30min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 30min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 30min - Average sunshine in May:
7h and 36min - Average sunshine in June:
7h and 30min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 36min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 24min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 18min - Average sunshine in October:
11h and 48min - Average sunshine in November:
11h and 42min - Average sunshine in December:
11h and 30min
The month with the most sunshine is October (Average sunshine: 11h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 24min).
Average sunshine days
Mapoteng, Lesotho
- Average sunshine days in January:
11 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.1 days - Average sunshine days in March:
15.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
19 days - Average sunshine days in May:
26.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
26.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
27.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
26.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
23.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
20.6 days - Average sunshine days in November:
16.1 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (27.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (11 days).
Average UV index
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The months with the highest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are May, June and July (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 20).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and August (Cloud cover 8).
Average visibility
Mapoteng, Lesotho
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
