January weather forecast
Ladysmith, South Africa

With its distinctly tropical climate, Ladysmith greets the new year mostly under sunny skies. Despite this, rainfall is a frequent occurrence throughout the month. Moisture-laden air from the surrounding oceans contributes to over half the days in January seeing rainfall, making it, with 99mm (3.9") of precipitation, the wettest month of the year in Ladysmith. Sightseers keen on outdoor activities should keep an eye out for possible changes in weather. The moderately windy conditions also serve to temper the heat, making it a favourite among wind-surfing enthusiasts.

Temperature

The shift into January reveals an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 29.2°C (84.6°F), closely mirroring December's climate. January nights bring a pronounced temperature shift, with averages hovering around a refreshing 16°C (60.8°F).

Heat index

For January, the heat index is computed to be a tropical 33°C (91.4°F). Incorporate special precautions, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is substantial. Sustained activity could cause heatstroke.
Bear in mind that the heat index values are determined for shaded areas and light breezes. With direct sunlight, the heat index could increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', is a numerical representation of warmth when taking temperature and moisture levels into account. Depending on the activity and the individual's heat perception, which may vary due to factors including wind, clothing, and metabolic variations, this effect remains subjective. Awareness is key; direct sunlight can enhance the weather's impact, possibly boosting the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly meaningful for babies and toddlers. Young individuals are generally in more danger than adults due to their lower capacity to sweat. Moreover, their large skin surface in relation to their small bodies and the increased heat generation from their activities makes them more vulnerable.

Humidity

In Ladysmith, the average relative humidity in January is 70%.

Rainfall

The month with the most rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 20.8 days and typically aggregates up to 99mm (3.9") of precipitation.

Daylight

In Ladysmith, the average length of the day in January is 13h and 43min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 05:06 and sunset at 19:02. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:30 and sunset at 18:57 SAST.

Sunshine

In January, the average sunshine in Ladysmith is 10.8h.

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 threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The maximum daily UV index of 6 in January interprets into the following recommendations:
Evade overexposure. Individuals with fair skin risk burning in under 20 minutes. Avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a period when UV radiation is most intense, and remember that not all shade structures provide full protection. Sun-related eye harm can be minimized with proper sunglasses offering UVA and UVB coverage.