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Contents
- The climate of Knysna
- The best time to visit Knysna
- The worst time to visit Knysna
- Spring weather in Knysna
- Summer weather in Knysna
- Autumn weather in Knysna
- Winter weather in Knysna
- 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 rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The climate of Knysna
Knysna, nestled in the Western Cape province of South Africa, experiences a marine west coast climate, characterized by relatively warm summers and mild winters, as per the Köppen climate classification. Its specific classification is Cfb. Inhabited by compelling landscapes and tempting waters, this global delight encounters a range of weather conditions throughout the year. There's a noticeable shift in temperature, rainfall, and daylight, making for a compelling year-round climate.
Average high temperatures fluctuate moderately, ranging from 21°C (69.8°F) in the winter months to 26°C (78.8°F) during summer. Correspondingly, the minimum temperatures show a subtle variation, moving from 7°C (44.6°F) in July and August to the warmth of 16°C (60.8°F) in February. While the warmth of the air could sway towards the cooler side, the sea temperature varies from a chilly 16.8°C (62.2°F) in July and August up to a more pleasant 20.4°C (68.7°F) in January.
Rainfall volume presents a diverse spectrum, with November registering the highest precipitation at 94mm (3.7") and June accounting for the driest month with a mere 36mm (1.42"). Rainfall events spread quite consistently throughout the year, with around 12 to 14 days of rainfall every month. The hours of daylight and sunshine hours dip and rise throughout the year, with the longest day being in December, boasting 14.4 hours of daylight, and the shortest in June with 9.9 hours. The UV index varies from 3 to 12, signifying ample protection may be needed in January and December when it reaches the higher end.
Average high temperatures fluctuate moderately, ranging from 21°C (69.8°F) in the winter months to 26°C (78.8°F) during summer. Correspondingly, the minimum temperatures show a subtle variation, moving from 7°C (44.6°F) in July and August to the warmth of 16°C (60.8°F) in February. While the warmth of the air could sway towards the cooler side, the sea temperature varies from a chilly 16.8°C (62.2°F) in July and August up to a more pleasant 20.4°C (68.7°F) in January.
Rainfall volume presents a diverse spectrum, with November registering the highest precipitation at 94mm (3.7") and June accounting for the driest month with a mere 36mm (1.42"). Rainfall events spread quite consistently throughout the year, with around 12 to 14 days of rainfall every month. The hours of daylight and sunshine hours dip and rise throughout the year, with the longest day being in December, boasting 14.4 hours of daylight, and the shortest in June with 9.9 hours. The UV index varies from 3 to 12, signifying ample protection may be needed in January and December when it reaches the higher end.
The best time to visit Knysna
Considering the mix of temperature, rainfall, and sunshine hours, the optimal time for a visit to Knysna is between February to April. During this period, the weather remains delightfully warm with average highs hovering around 24°C (75.2°F) to 26°C (78.8°F). Rainfall is also moderate compared to other months, with February recording only 55mm (2.17") rainfall over 12 days. From March to April, the rain frequency increases slightly but remains bearable at an average of 71mm (2.8") spread across 13 days. Tourists can also enjoy longer daylight periods with an average of 12 to 13 hours of daylight.
The worst time to visit Knysna
Anytime between late fall to early spring, namely June to August, might not be ideal for roaming around Knysna. These months bring the lowest temperatures, with the average monthly low dropping to a chilly 7°C (44.6°F) to 8°C (46.4°F). Alongside this, you have prolonged periods of rainfall, especially in August, with an average precipitation totalling 68mm (2.68"). These months also have the shortest days, which could limit sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Knysna
Spring in Knysna spans from September to November and is a period of gradual transition. Temperatures begin to climb, starting from average highs of 21°C (69.8°F) in September to a warm high of 23°C (73.4°F) by November, while the lows increase from 9°C (48.2°F) to 12°C (53.6°F). Rainfall during these months can be high, with an average high of 94mm (3.7") in November. Sea temperature starts to heat up, offering comfortable swimming conditions from a steady 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 18.8°C (65.8°F).
Summer weather in Knysna
Summer, from December to February, brings the most agreeable climate to Knysna. Average high temperatures hover between 25°C (77°F) and 26°C (78.8°F), and the lows maintain a comfortable range between 14°C (57.2°F) and 16°C (60.8°F). Despite being summer months, rain cannot be ruled out with even December seeing an average rainfall of 63mm (2.48"). The sea tempts with welcoming temperatures from 19.7°C (67.5°F) to a promising 20.4°C (68.7°F).
Autumn weather in Knysna
Autumn hits Knysna from March to May and ushers in a cooling effect. Average high temperatures drop, moving from 25°C (77°F) in March to 21°C (69.8°F) by May. Correspondingly, the lows sink from 15°C (59°F) to 10°C (50°F). Rainfall depicts a remarkable decrease as well, especially in May, which records an average rainfall of 39mm (1.54"). Sea temperatures also take a downturn, moving from 19.9°C (67.8°F) in March to a cooler 17.5°C (63.5°F) in May.
Winter weather in Knysna
Winter in Knysna extends from June to August. June and July experience the coldest temperatures with averages hovering at 8°C (46.4°F) to 7°C (44.6°F). The highs do not provide much relief, staying steady at 21°C (69.8°F). Rainfall in winter is constant, with July witnessing the lowest annual rainfall at 36mm (1.42"), while August sees a surge to 68mm (2.68"). Daylight hours shrink to 9.9 hours in June, but gradually rise to 10.9 hours by August. If braving the winter seas, prepare for temperatures from a chilly 16.8°C (62.2°F) to a slightly warmer 17.2°C (63°F) in August.
Weather in January
Serving up a warm start to the year, impeccable weather conditions are present in Knysna, South Africa. January's weather closely resembles that of February but with slightly higher rainfall of 62mm (2.44") spread across 14 days, making it a balmy and tranquil month compared to the moist February. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February is a month of slight transitions, building upon the moderate weather experienced during January. While the weather closely maintains the pattern of January, February reins in the rainfall to 55mm (2.17") over 12 days. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March showcases a shift from the dry weather conditions of the previous month, registering a comparatively higher rainfall of 81mm (3.19") across 14 days. The punctuated rainfall brings about a slight cool down from February, but the weather remains largely consistent. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks the beginning of the transition from warmer to slightly cooler temperatures. Despite the downwards shift, the weather conditions remain relatively consistent from March, offering an enjoyable outdoor climate with slightly less rainfall of 60mm (2.36"). Weather in April »
Weather in May
May marks a clear downturn in the weather conditions as it moves into the cooler months. The rainfall is reduced to 39mm (1.54") over nine days, indicating a relative dryness compared to April. The crisp air and cooler weather make this an excellent time for scenic drives through the region, with less crowding on the popular routes. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Entering the core of the winter season, June records colder temperatures while maintaining similar weather patterns to May. This month sees comparatively less rainfall, with 32mm (1.26") distributed over 10 days. Despite the drop, outdoor experiences remain inviting, transforming local adventures into somewhat of a winter wonderland. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July maintains the cool climate trend, recording similar temperatures to June with marginally higher rainfall of 36mm (1.42"). Despite the increase in rainfall, outdoor activities are far from being hamper. Wildlife sightings on land become richer as marine life contracts due to chilling sea temperatures. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August marks a period of transitioning back to warmer weather, similar to that experienced in July. The major difference occurs in the rainfall registering an uptick to 68mm (2.68") over 12 days. This increased rainfall results in a dramatic transformation of the landscape into a stunning green panorama. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September represents a significant change towards warmer weather, following the patterns established by August. Notable is a reduction in rainfall to 44mm (1.73") over 12 days. The blossoming flora during September transforms Knysna into an exquisite paradise, making it a great period for nature walks and picnics. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October continues the transition, with weather patterns largely echoing those of September. With a sudden rise in rainfall to 87mm (3.43"), there's a shift towards a more tropical landscape compared to the preceding month. The vast outdoor adventures in Knysna become even more exciting as diverse species make their appearance amidst the lush outdoors. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November, a harbinger of summer, mirrors the weather of October but with even higher rainfall reaching up to 94mm (3.7") across 13 days. Stepping into summer, Knysna stirs to life with an all-embracing warmth, bright days and bustling wildlife. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December welcomes the zenith of summer, mirroring the elevated temperatures of November with marginally reduced rainfall of 63mm (2.48") over 13 days. The vibrant energy of Knysna pulsates with life as summer arrives in full swing. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the hottest time of year in Knysna?
The months of January and February bring the highest temperatures, averaging a high of 26°C (78.8°F).
How many days does it rain in Knysna?
In Knysna, South Africa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 145 days and collects up to 719mm (28.31") of precipitation.
When is the sea warmest in Knysna?
January is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 20.4°C (68.7°F).
What are the months with the most sunshine in Knysna?
January and February, with an average of 10h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.
What are the months with the highest UV index in Knysna?
The months with the highest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 12.
What are the months with the least sunshine in Knysna?
May and June, with an average of 7h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index in Knysna?
May through July, with an average maximum UV index of 3, are months with the lowest UV index.
What part of the year is the coldest in Knysna?
The yearly lowest temperatures occur in June through September, averaging a high-temperature of 21°C (69.8°F).
What is the driest month in Knysna?
The month with the least rainfall in Knysna, South Africa, is June, when the rain falls for 10 days and typically collects 32mm (1.26") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Knysna?
The month with the shortest days is June, with an average of 9h and 54min of daylight.
What are the months with the coldest sea water in Knysna?
July and August, with an average sea temperature of 16.8°C (62.2°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Knysna.
What is the wettest month in Knysna?
November is the month with the most rainfall in Knysna, South Africa. Rain falls for 13 days and accumulates 94mm (3.7") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Knysna?
December has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 24min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Knysna?
Knysna, South Africa, does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). SAST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Knysna, South Africa
The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are January and February (26°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are June, July, August and September (21°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (16°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (7°C).
Average rainfall
Knysna, South Africa
- Average rainfall in January:
62.4mm - Average rainfall in February:
55.2mm - Average rainfall in March:
81mm - Average rainfall in April:
60.2mm - Average rainfall in May:
38.5mm - Average rainfall in June:
31.7mm
- Average rainfall in July:
35.9mm - Average rainfall in August:
67.5mm - Average rainfall in September:
44.2mm - Average rainfall in October:
86.5mm - Average rainfall in November:
93.7mm - Average rainfall in December:
62.5mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (93.7mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (31.7mm).
Average rainfall days
Knysna, South Africa
- Average rainfall days in January:
14 days - Average rainfall days in February:
12 days - Average rainfall days in March:
14 days - Average rainfall days in April:
12 days - Average rainfall days in May:
9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
10 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12 days - Average rainfall days in September:
12 days - Average rainfall days in October:
14 days - Average rainfall days in November:
13 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13 days
The months with the highest number of rainy days are January, March and October (14 days).
The month with the least rainy days is May (9 days).
Average sea temperature
Knysna, South Africa
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is January (20.4°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are July and August (16.8°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Knysna, South Africa
- Average daylight in January:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
9h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
14h and 2min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 14h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 9h and 54min).
The months with the most sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 10h).
The months with the least sunshine are May and June (Average sunshine: 7h).
Average UV index
Knysna, South Africa
The months with the highest UV index are January and December (UV index 12).
The months with the lowest UV index are May, June and July (UV index 3).
Knysna, South Africa
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