The climate of Maseru
Maseru, the capital city of
Lesotho, predominantly falls under a Cwb Köppen climate classification. Geographically, this type of climate is typically a Temperate highland tropical climate with dry winters. Over the course of a year, weather parameters such as temperature, precipitation, humidity, cloud coverage, wind, and pressure fluctuate and exhibit distinct patterns.
The trend in temperatures becomes evident when observing the annual cycle. The warmest months are from
December to
February, with temperatures peaking at 26.1°C (79°F) in
January. On the opposite side of the spectrum, the coldest months fall between
June and
August, with the temperature dropping as low as 2.1°C (35.8°F) in June. Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with a high of 71mm (2.8") in December and a low of 7mm (0.28") from June to August.
Maseru's unique position results in a particularly noticeable contrast in weather patterns. Keep an especially close eye on the relative humidity which is lowest in
September at 35% but increases in the latter part of the year, reaching a high of 59% in February. Cloud coverage is minimized from June to September, with the least cloudiness recorded at 8% in
July and August. The pressure rises gradually from the start of the year, peaking at 1025.3 mb in July and subsequently descends toward the end of the year with the lowest recorded at 1013.5 mb in December.
The best time to visit Maseru
Discerning travellers find the period from
May to
October to be the most ideal time to visit
Maseru. During these months, temperatures range from 13.6°C (56.5°F) to 19.6°C (67.3°F) and present pleasant weather conditions that allow for exploration and sightseeing. Rainfall is also at a minimum, ranging from 7mm (0.28") to 12mm (0.47"), making it convenient for both outdoor activities and moving around.
The worst time to visit Maseru
Maseru experiences its most extreme weather conditions from
December to
February. These months are marked by fluctuating temperatures that can reach highs of 26.1°C (79°F). Moreover, December is notorious for its high rainfall of 71mm (2.8") and 15.7 rainy days. Consequently, these conditions may restrict the range of activities available and should be taken into account when planning a visit.
Spring weather in Maseru
Spanning
September to
November, spring in
Maseru is characterized by a steady rise in temperatures and reduced rainfall. During this period, the temperature ranges between 17.1°C (62.8°F) and 24.2°C (75.6°F), while rainfall is relatively low, increasing from 9mm (0.35") to 45mm (1.77"). Interestingly, despite being spring, these months have some of the lowest relative humidity levels and cloud coverage.
Summer weather in Maseru
Summer in
Maseru runs from
December to
February. The city experiences its peak temperatures during this period, with mercury levels ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 26.1°C (79°F). Noticeably, these months are accompanied by high rainfall, peaking at 71mm (2.8") in December. Humidity levels also rise, recording a maximum of 59% in February.
Autumn weather in Maseru
Autumn in
Maseru, from
March to
May, is marked by a decline in temperatures and a drop in the amount of rainfall. During these months, temperatures range from 13.6°C (56.5°F) to 23.8°C (74.8°F) while rainfall decreases steadily from 42mm (1.65") to 8mm (0.31"). Reduced cloud coverage and lower humidity make for a comfortable climate.
Winter weather in Maseru
Winter months in
Maseru are from
June to
August. During this period, the city witnesses cooler temperatures ranging from 2.2°C (36°F) to 17.1°C (62.8°F). Precipitation drops significantly to as low as 7mm (0.28"), contributing to the characteristic dry winter. Notably, these months see a rise in pressure, which is at its peak in
July at 1025.3 mb. Despite the lower temperatures, winter enjoys the least cloudiness and lower relative humidity levels, contributing to the distinct clarity and brightness of winter days.
Weather in January
The dawn of the year in
Maseru,
Lesotho unveils typical summer weather patterns. Balancing between a high of 26.1°C (79°F) and a low of 14.8°C (58.6°F), temperatures contribute to mild and comfortable conditions. Weather elements, such as wind speed, visibility, and air pressure, are usually consistent and present a stable pattern.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
February arrives,
Maseru's weather exhibits slight changes. The maximum temperature witnesses a slight dip compared to the previous month, resonating with the gradual departure of summer. Rainfall decreases compared to
January, consolidating the city's transition into the dry spell.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March ensues with its own set of weather characteristics. Corresponding to the arrival of autumn,
Maseru observes a declining trend in temperature and humidity. A salient highlight of the month is a considerable reduction in rainfall, from 51mm (2.01") in
February to 42mm (1.65") in March.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signals a discernable transformation of
Maseru's climate, indicative of well-established autumn patterns. With temperatures continuing on the downward trend, there is a distinctive drop in night temperatures, indicating cooler evenings.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May, being the transitionary period between autumn and winter, catalyzes a significant heat drop in
Maseru. The sharp drop in rainfall, from 37mm (1.46") in
April to 8mm (0.31") in May, creates a distinction between the two months.
Weather in May » Weather in June
In
June, winter announces its arrival in
Maseru with lower temperatures and the first snowfall of the year. The city experiences cold nights with temperatures dipping to 2.1°C (35.8°F) on average but devoid of biting wintry winds.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, being the coldest month of the year in
Maseru, witnesses winter in its full bloom. The cold nights are enhanced, and even though there is a slight increase in rainfall, the amount of 7mm (0.28") remains insignificant. The city is draped in a white sheen as snowfall increases compared to
June, enhancing the scenic beauty of Maseru.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August stands as a transition month between winter and spring in
Maseru. The onset of spring is felt with a subtle rise in night temperatures and a lull in the snowfall, paving the way for warmer days ahead. Mild breezes replace the cold winds, fostering a pleasant environment.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings with it vibrant spring vibes. A distinct increase in temperature from 17.1°C (62.8°F) in
August to 21.2°C (70.2°F) in September, announces the arrival of spring in full form. The rainfall pattern also alters slightly, but the overall dry conditions prevail.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October magnifies the spring season further with temperatures climbing to a balmy range, reinstating the weather warmth in
Maseru. The transition from
September to October is accompanied by a rise in rainfall, signaling the advent of the city's rainy season.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November thereby prepares
Maseru for the approaching summer, further escalating the heat. It exhibits an undulating weather pattern with a significant upsurge in rainfall, from 33mm (1.3") in
October to 45mm (1.77") in November.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December presents
Maseru with a palpable taste of summer. The highest rainfall for the year is recorded in this month, with total precipitation reaching 71mm (2.8"). Extended daylight hours ensure sunny afternoons followed by cooler evenings.
Weather in December » [Resources]