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Contents
- The climate of Durban
- The best time to visit Durban
- The worst time to visit Durban
- Spring weather in Durban
- Summer weather in Durban
- Autumn weather in Durban
- Winter weather in Durban
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Durban
Durban, located in South Africa, is categorized under the Köppen climate classification as Cfa which signifies a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. This results in warm temperatures and consistent precipitation throughout the year. The city enjoys a warm maritime climate ushered in by the eastward-flowing Agulhas current of the Indian Ocean, maintaining relatively high humidity levels that range from 64% in the cooler temperatures of July to 83% in December.
Observing recorded weather data patterns, a trend of fluctuating temperatures and rainfall is evident. Median monthly high temperatures hover between 21.3°C (70.3°F) in July to a peak of 26.5°C (79.7°F) in February, while nightly lows range from 13.6°C (56.5°F) also in July to a high of 20.2°C (68.4°F) in February. Rainfall exhibits less consistency, with a perceptible increase throughout the year, achieving a peak of 87mm (3.43") in November and a low of 11mm (0.43") in June. This rainfall pattern corresponds with the relative count of rainy days, from an estimated 6.5 days in June to a high of 23.4 days in December.
A distinguishing quality of Durban's climate is the steady warmth of its sea temperatures, varying from an annual low of 21.3°C (70.3°F) in August to highs of 26.1°C (79°F) in February and March.
Observing recorded weather data patterns, a trend of fluctuating temperatures and rainfall is evident. Median monthly high temperatures hover between 21.3°C (70.3°F) in July to a peak of 26.5°C (79.7°F) in February, while nightly lows range from 13.6°C (56.5°F) also in July to a high of 20.2°C (68.4°F) in February. Rainfall exhibits less consistency, with a perceptible increase throughout the year, achieving a peak of 87mm (3.43") in November and a low of 11mm (0.43") in June. This rainfall pattern corresponds with the relative count of rainy days, from an estimated 6.5 days in June to a high of 23.4 days in December.
A distinguishing quality of Durban's climate is the steady warmth of its sea temperatures, varying from an annual low of 21.3°C (70.3°F) in August to highs of 26.1°C (79°F) in February and March.
The best time to visit Durban
Factoring in factors such as rainfall, temperature, sunshine duration, and sea temperature, April and May emerge as the most favorable time for a visit to Durban. During these months, visitors can expect daily high temperatures ranging from 23.9°C (75°F) to 23.4°C (74.1°F) with minimal rainfall averaging at 60mm (2.36") to 26mm (1.02"). Also, the sea temperature maintains at a comforting 25.1°C (77.2°F) to 23.7°C (74.7°F) making for comfortable beach activities. An added benefit of visiting during this period is the potential for longer daylight hours varying between 11.4 hours to 10.6 hours per day.
The worst time to visit Durban
The least favorable period to visit Durban is from November to December. These months experience rainfall levels peaking at 87mm (3.43") and 84mm (3.31") respectively, with the most significant number of rainy days reaching up to 20.6 and 23.4 days. A heightened humidity level, particularly in December at 83%, is also a deterrent for visitors who may not find this climate agreeable. Yet, the average daily temperatures remain warm, fluctuating between 25.1°C (77.2°F) and 23.5°C (74.3°F), and the sea even warmer at 23.2°C (73.8°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F).
Spring weather in Durban
Spring in Durban runs from September to November. The weather during this period sees an escalation in temperature, from 22.7°C (72.9°F) in September to 25.1°C (77.2°F) in November. Nighttime temperatures also rise, varying between 15.7°C (60.3°F) and 18.8°C (65.8°F). Rainfall levels start to rise, from 34mm (1.34") in September, peaking at 87mm (3.43") in November. Despite the increasing rainfall, daylight hours also increase, providing between 11.9 to 13.6 hours of daily sunlight.
Summer weather in Durban
The summer season from December to February sees steady high temperatures, with a range from 25.1°C (77.2°F) to 26.5°C (79.7°F). Lower temperatures at night maintain warmth, from 18.8°C (65.8°F) to 20.2°C (68.4°F). These months mark higher rainfall, peaking to 84mm (3.31") in December and then slightly decreasing to 68mm (2.68") in February. Despite these high rainfall levels, the city enjoys ample sunshine lasting 7 to 8.5 hours per day.
Autumn weather in Durban
During the autumn months of March to May, daily high temperatures gradually decline from 25.9°C (78.6°F) to 23.4°C (74.1°F), and the city witnesses a slight reduction in rainfall levels, declining from 59mm (2.32") in March to 26mm (1.02") in May. Correspondingly, the sea temperature also drops from 26.1°C (79°F) in March to a comfortable 23.7°C (74.7°F) in May.
Winter weather in Durban
Winter in Durban extends from June to August. This period comprises cooler temperatures; daytime highs oscillating between 21.3°C (70.3°F) and 22.3°C (72.1°F), whereas night lows range from 13.6°C (56.5°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F). This period is marked by a significant reduction in rainfall, dropping to a minimum of 11mm (0.43") in June, with rainfall slowly increasing to 23mm (0.91") by August. Despite lower temperatures, there is an average of 6.8 to 7.1 hours of sunshine daily, merging with lower humidity levels for a comfortable winter experience.
Weather in January
Durban, South Africa greets the New Year with a fair amount of humidity and warmth. Tropical rainfall occurs on approximately 22 days, amounting to 72mm (2.83"). The significant amount of rainfall does little to interrupt the daylight, with the sun shining for almost 14 hours a day. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In February, Durban experiences a slight dip in tropical rainfall from the previous month, but carries on with warm temperatures. The city sees a generous display of sunshine, amounting to 8.5 hours daily. Amidst this, ample daylight of about 13.1 hours provides the ideal setting for late afternoon strolls. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March marks a transitional period in Durban weather, with a noticeable drop in temperatures and a decline in rainfall down to 59mm (2.32"). On the other hand, daylight decreases slightly yet provides ample hours for various outdoor pursuits. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Moving towards the mid-year point, April presents a distinct shift in Durban's weather pattern. Rainfall is in a constant decline, now reaching 60mm (2.36") for the month. Concurrently, a considerable decrease in humidity and cloud cover becomes evident, giving way to clearer skies. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May signifies the onset of winter in Durban, South Africa. The noteworthy change during this month is the decrease in rainfall, dropping to a mere 26mm (1.02"). While temperatures continue to dip, it is the lack of rain that sets May apart from its preceding months. Weather in May »
Weather in June
As winter penetrates deeper, June in Durban witnesses the lowest rainfall of the year at 11mm (0.43"). The city embraces cooler temperatures, a decrease in humidity, and less daylight, with the sun shedding light for 10.2 hours daily. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July continues the winter’s journey in Durban, maintaining lower averages in temperature and rainfall, which measures 20mm (0.79"). The city sees the year’s highest barometric pressure, hinting towards stable and arid weather conditions. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August sees a slight uptick in Durban's weather, as the winter starts retreating. Though temperatures remain low, there's a mild increase in the rainfall, recorded at 23mm (0.91"). Yet, the rainfall does little to dampen the spirits of individuals, as sunny spells brighten most of the day. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Durban marks the advent of spring and an increase in temperatures. The main highlight is the rain level, which increases to 34mm (1.34"), indicating a shift towards more humid times. The versatile weather patterns ensure that each day in the city brings differing views and experiences. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October carries forward the spring vibes in Durban. The city witnesses the onset of increased rain, amounting to 53mm (2.09"), and an increase in temperature. Yet, the weather remains well-balanced with sun-filled hours and minimal cloud cover, allowing ample sunlight to pierce through. Weather in October »
Weather in November
As summer takes over, Durban experiences the peak of its rainfall for the year, recording 87mm (3.43"). While the increased rainfall might not make it ideal for outdoor activities, the weather remains substantially mild. With 13.6 hours of daylight coupled with 7 hours of sunshine, November witnesses a unique blend of sunshine and showers that resonate with Durban’s tropical climate. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Rounding out the year, December in Durban brings the highest humidity levels at 83% and average rainfall measuring 84mm (3.31"). Despite these figures, the city basks in the glory of 14 hours of daylight, the highest in the year. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain in Durban?
In Durban, South Africa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 182.6 days and collects up to 597mm (23.5") of precipitation.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Durban?
January through March and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the warmest month in Durban?
February brings the highest temperatures, with an average high of 26.5°C (79.7°F) and an average low of 20.2°C (68.4°F).
When is the sea warmest in Durban?
February and March, with an average sea temperature of 26.1°C (79°F), are months with the warmest seawater.
What month has the most sunshine in Durban?
The month with the most sunshine is February, with an average of 8.5h of sunshine.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Durban?
April has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.9h of sunshine.
What is the least humid month in Durban?
The least humid month in Durban, South Africa, is June, with an average relative humidity of 64%.
What is the driest month in Durban?
The month with the least rainfall in Durban is June, when the rain falls for 6.5 days and typically collects 11mm (0.43") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Durban?
With an average of 10h and 18min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Durban.
What are the coldest months in Durban?
July, marked by an average high-temperature of 21.3°C (70.3°F) and a low-temperature of 13.6°C (56.5°F), is the coldest month.
When is the sea coldest in Durban?
August is the month with the coldest seawater in Durban, South Africa, with an average sea temperature of 21.3°C (70.3°F).
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Durban?
The month with the lowest UV index is October, with an average maximum UV index of 4.
What is the rainiest month in Durban?
November is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 20.6 days and accumulates 87mm (3.43") of precipitation.
What is the most humid month in Durban?
December is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 83%.
When are the longest days in Durban?
With an average of 14h and 0min of daylight, December has the longest days of the year in Durban.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Durban?
Durban does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). SAST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Durban, South Africa
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (26.5°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (21.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (20.2°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (13.6°C).
Average pressure
Durban, South Africa
- Average pressure in January:
1014.2mbar - Average pressure in February:
1014.4mbar - Average pressure in March:
1016mbar - Average pressure in April:
1018.6mbar - Average pressure in May:
1019.6mbar - Average pressure in June:
1021.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1023.1mbar - Average pressure in August:
1020.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1018.9mbar - Average pressure in October:
1017.5mbar - Average pressure in November:
1015.6mbar - Average pressure in December:
1014.3mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1023.1mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is January (1014.2mbar).
Average wind speed
Durban, South Africa
- Average wind speed in January:
13.1km/h - Average wind speed in February:
12.7km/h - Average wind speed in March:
12km/h - Average wind speed in April:
12.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
11km/h - Average wind speed in June:
11.5km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
11.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
13.3km/h - Average wind speed in September:
13.6km/h - Average wind speed in October:
14.5km/h - Average wind speed in November:
13.8km/h - Average wind speed in December:
13.1km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is October (14.5km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is May (11km/h).
Average humidity
Durban, South Africa
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (83%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (64%).
Average rainfall
Durban, South Africa
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (87mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (11mm).
Average rainfall days
Durban, South Africa
- Average rainfall days in January:
21.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
17.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
18.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
13.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
9.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
6.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
8.6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14.1 days - Average rainfall days in October:
18.1 days - Average rainfall days in November:
20.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
23.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (23.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (6.5 days).
Average sea temperature
Durban, South Africa
The best months for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) are February and March (26.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is August (21.3°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Durban, South Africa
- Average daylight in January:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
10h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
13h and 4min - 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:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
7h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 8h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is April (Average sunshine: 5h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Durban, South Africa
- Average sunshine days in January:
6.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
8.1 days - Average sunshine days in March:
9.4 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.9 days - Average sunshine days in May:
19.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
21.6 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
21.4 days - Average sunshine days in August:
18.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in October:
10.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
7.1 days - Average sunshine days in December:
5.4 days
The month with the most sunshine days is June (21.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (5.4 days).
Average UV index
Durban, South Africa
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March and December (UV index 6).
The month with the lowest UV index is October (UV index 4).
Average cloud cover
Durban, South Africa
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 58).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 17).
Average visibility
Durban, South Africa
The months with the highest visibility are April, May, June, July, August and September (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, October, November and December (9km).
Durban, South Africa
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