December weather forecast
Ladysmith, South Africa

Ladysmith greets December with a transition into peak summer conditions. Heat is at its most potent, as reflected by the highest average maximum temperatures for the year of 29.3°C (84.7°F). In keeping with the summertime theme, rainfall also sees an uptick compared to previous months. The potent ultraviolet light, combined with heavy rainfall, can create a vibrant display of rainbows, a dazzling sight to close the year. Despite bouts of rain, the weather largely remains stable, and wind speeds are typically low, further cementing December as a classic Ladysmith summer month.

Temperature

Temperature readings reach their annual highs in December, averaging 29.3°C (84.7°F) and a minimum average of 15.6°C (60.1°F).

Heat index

December's average heat index is computed to be a hot 33°C (91.4°F). Implement more preventive measures, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are probable. Heatstroke might result from extended activity.
The metrics for the heat index are tailored for both shady environments and light winds. The presence of direct sunlight can raise the heat index values by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'felt air temperature', is an aggregate value of air's warmth and moisture to show the human-felt temperature. The effect is personal, with varied weather perceptions among individuals due to differences in body mass, stature, and physical activity. Understand that direct sun rays can influence the weather's impact, leading to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Typically, young kids are at a higher risk than adults since they sweat less. Also, the larger skin surface in proportion to their small bodies and the heightened heat production due to their active nature adds to their vulnerability.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in December is 67%.

Rainfall

In December, in Ladysmith, the rain falls for 22.5 days. Throughout December, 89mm (3.5") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, in Ladysmith, there are 149.6 rainfall days, and 523mm (20.59") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 13h and 54min of daylight.
On the first day of December, sunrise is at 04:55 and sunset at 18:44. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:06 and sunset at 19:01 SAST.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in December in Ladysmith is 10.7h.

UV index

January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: In December, the UV index of 6 transforms into the following advice:
Implement preventive steps and embrace sun safety standards. Protection from skin and eye distress is compulsory. Remember that the sun's UV radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make an effort to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours. Consider a wide-brim hat essential for effective sun defense covering your face, neck, and eyes.