The climate of Ratau
Ratau,
Lesotho's climate, falls under the Köppen climate classification Cwb, signifying a Temperate Highland Tropical Climate with dry winters. This categorization emerges from the town's elevated location and distinctive weather patterns. An array of climatological factors designs the weather script of Ratau over the year.
The temperature in Ratau fluctuates moderately from 2.1°C (35.8°F) to 26.1°C (79°F) throughout the year. Humidity hovers around 55%, providing a relatively comfortable level of air moisture. Rainfall follows a specific pattern from a high 71mm (2.8") in
December gradually decreasing to a minimum of 7mm (0.28") between
June to
August, and then picking back up. Notably, snowfall is restricted to winter months with a maximum of 7mm (0.28") in
July.
With an average cloud% around 14%, the town enjoys clear skies most of the time. The daylight extends between 10.3 hours to 14 hours depending on the season, with a consistent visibility of 10 kilometers, indicating high clarity throughout the year. The wind speed remains relatively steady at an average of 8.7km/h (5.4mph), increasing slightly in the colder months.
The best time to visit Ratau
Considering the climate factors, the best time to visit
Ratau would be between
September to
November. During this period, the temperatures are comfortable ranging from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 23.1°C (73.6°F), and there is less rainfall with a measurement between 9mm (0.35") to 33mm (1.3"). The region also enjoys a good amount of sunshine, approximately 11.8 hours in
October. The UV index remains moderate, standing at 5.
The worst time to visit Ratau
The least favorable time to visit
Ratau could be pinpointed to the Winter season. From
June to
August, the temperatures can dip as low as 2.1°C (35.8°F) to 2.2°C (36°F). Snowfall is also possible during these months, which could hinder outdoor activities. Moreover, the wind speed picks up a notch during this season making the cold feel much more penetrating.
Spring weather in Ratau
Spring in
Ratau, which falls between
September to
November, is a beautiful time. During this season, temperatures range from a low of 7.7°C (45.9°F) to a high of 23.1°C (73.6°F). The rainfall is moderate, varying from 9mm (0.35") to 33mm (1.3"), making it a pleasant time to explore the outdoors. Simultaneously, the wind's speed increases gradually from 10.4km/h (6.5mph) to 11.1km/h (6.9mph), generating a cool breeze that can add to the comfort.
Summer weather in Ratau
Summer, from
December to
February, in
Ratau, sees an increase in both temperatures and humidity. The temperature revs up to 25.5°C (77.9°F) in December and decreases slowly to 23.8°C (74.8°F) by February. Rainfall, too, sees an uptick starting with 71mm (2.8") in December and decreasing to 42mm (1.65") in February. Notably, the UV index peaks during these months, marking at 6.
Autumn weather in Ratau
Autumn, from
March to
May, ushers in a period of cooling in
Ratau. The temperature levels out from 19.6°C (67.3°F) to 17.1°C (62.8°F), and the rainfall sees a sharp decline to 8mm (0.31"). The frequency of sunshine hours per day decreases slightly, providing a pleasant temperate environment. The wind speed in these months varies from 7.6km/h (4.7mph) to 7km/h (4.3mph), maintaining a calm atmosphere.
Winter weather in Ratau
Winter in
Ratau spans from
June to
August and is the chilliest season. The temperature drops to a low of 2.1°C (35.8°F) and a high of 17.1°C (62.8°F) in August. During this period, Ratau experiences occasional snowfall, making it the only season with snow. The wind speed ranges from 7.4km/h (4.6mph) to 9.1km/h (5.7mph) during these months, and the daylight hours are shortest, making it a typical winter environment. Despite the cold, the low rainfall levels and clear skies can present a unique winter experience.
Weather in January
In
Ratau,
Lesotho, the start of the year sees temperate conditions.
January temperatures peak at around 26.1°C (79°F) and settle at comfortable lows of 14.8°C (58.6°F). The weather remains relatively dry with moderate rainfall which can occasionally disrupt outdoor activities.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The weather in
February sees a slight drop in temperatures. It's slightly cooler than
January, but still comfortable for outdoor activities. The humidity sees a marginal increase to 59%, though, it's barely noticeable. It is noticeable though that there's a mild decrease in rainfall from 65mm (2.56") to 51mm (2.01").
Weather in February »Weather in March
In
March,
Ratau experiences further decline in temperatures. It becomes notably cooler with less rain showers making it ideal for those who prefer fewer disruptions by rainfall. The wind speed remains nearly constant at 8.1km/h (5mph).
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in
April transitions towards winter, with temperatures registering marked decrease and rainfall further reducing to 37mm (1.46"). Nevertheless, the weather remains quite stable allowing locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor activities.
Weather in April »Weather in May
With the winter closing in,
May experiences a significant change in weather. The air turns brisk and cooler temperatures become the norm. The city receives only 8mm (0.31") of rainfall, a sharp decrease compared to previous months. Hikers and climbers can take advantage of the clear skies and reduced cloud cover of just 10%.
Weather in May »Weather in June
In
June,
Ratau experiences the thrills of winter. The colder temperatures become more apparent and the city receives its first snowfall of the season, 4mm (0.16") in all. Combine the low rainfall with peaks covered in snow, and you are greeted with a spellbinding panorama.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the heart of winter in
Ratau. The weather can be erratic at times but it usually remains at winter norms. There's a slight increase in snowfall to 7mm (0.28"), offering a enchanting view of the city, blanketed in delicate white snow.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As
August rolls in, winter begins to relinquish its grip on the city. A transition towards warmer weather becomes noticeable, and the snowfall drops to 2mm (0.08"). Flowers start blooming and trees begin to flaunt new leaves, painting a colorful picture across the city.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September marks the onset of spring, characterized by warmer days and chilly nights. As the city is refreshed by the gentle rainfall of 9mm (0.35"), the scenery becomes even more breathtaking. Clear visibility of up to 10km (6.2mi) presents perfect conditions for sightseeing and exploring the natural beauty of
Ratau.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Upon reaching
October, outdoor enthusiasts will find the weather highly agreeable. The rise in temperatures is accompanied by a moderate increase in rainfall to 33mm (1.3"). Getting a tan under the generous sunshine which extends to about 11.8 hours daily becomes a favorite activity for many.
Weather in October »Weather in November
In
November,
Ratau experiences a slight increase in rainfall, thereby enhancing its lush natural splendor. With temperatures gradually rising, residents and tourists find the weather ideal for outdoor activities. Despite the slight increase in relative humidity to 45%, it doesn't deter visitors from experiencing the city in all its beauty.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December brings with it a bittersweet change as the year draws to close. With temperatures peaking at 25.5°C (77.9°F), it marks one of the warmer months of the year. The higher rainfall of 71mm (2.8") ushers in a sense of freshness across the city.
Weather in December »