Climate and monthly weather forecastOudtshoorn, South Africa

The climate of Oudtshoorn

The predominant climate in Oudtshoorn, South Africa, as per the Köppen climate classification, is BSk - a Mid-latitude steppe climate. This arid region falls between the subtropical and tropical latitude lines, making for an interesting blend of weather patterns.

Throughout the year, climate indicators fluctuate, affecting the overall weather conditions. Interestingly, in this location, temperature variations are present but not extreme. From an average high of 28°C (82.4°F) in the month of February, there is a progressive decrease to around 16.8°C (62.2°F) by June and July. The average low follows a similar trend, with a high of 16.3°C (61.3°F) in February, down to an annual lowest of 6.8°C (44.2°F) in July.

Oudtshoorn experiences moderate rainfall year-round, but it is not evenly distributed. The highest rainfall, averaging 18mm (0.71"), occurs in October, while April and May receive around 11mm (0.43"). In terms of daylight hours, there's an annual high of 14.3 hours in December and a low of 10 hours between June and July. The sunshine hours follow a similar pattern, with the most sunshine in December (10.9 hours) and the least in June and July (6.8 hours).

The climate also impacts the wind speeds, with the average wind speed ranging from 9.3km/h (5.8mph) in April and May to 11.5km/h (7.1mph) in June. The wind gusts also record the highest speeds around the same time, recording an annual high of 19.7km/h (12.2mph) in June.

The best time to visit Oudtshoorn

Considering the weather parameters, the best time to visit Oudtshoorn depends on preferred weather conditions. Travellers who favour warmer temperatures should plan their visit between December and February, with average high temperatures oscillating around 27.7°C (81.9°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). During these months, the region also receives maximum daylight hours and sunshine, making it a good time for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting.

The worst time to visit Oudtshoorn

On the other hand, travelers may want to avoid Oudtshoorn during the months of June and July. This is when the region experiences the coldest temperatures dropping to around 16.8°C (62.2°F), and as low as 6.8°C (44.2°F). Sunshine hours are at their lowest during these months, and the wind speed also reaches a peak which could affect one's travel plans.

Spring weather in Oudtshoorn

Springtime in Oudtshoorn, from September to November, sees average high temperatures between 20.1°C (68.2°F) and 23.8°C (74.8°F) and low temperatures varying from 8.7°C (47.7°F) to 12.3°C (54.1°F). The weather is truly spring-like, with moderate rainfall, increasing daylight hours, and plenty of sunshine.

Summer weather in Oudtshoorn

Summer in Oudtshoorn, from December to February, is marked by high temperatures, ranging between 26.2°C (79.2°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Night temperatures offer a respite, staying around 16.2°C (61.2°F) to 16.3°C (61.3°F). Rainfall is moderately low for tropical expectations, and sunshine averages approximately 10.9 hours daily, providing ample time for outdoor exploration.

Autumn weather in Oudtshoorn

Autumn, between March and May, witnesses a cooling trend in Oudtshoorn. The average high temperatures range from 22.8°C (73°F) to 26.3°C (79.3°F) and nightly lows range from 10.2°C (50.4°F) to 14.9°C (58.8°F). While rainfall is steady at about 11mm (0.43") to 12mm (0.47") per month, the daylight and sunshine hours gradually decrease signaling the onset of winter.

Winter weather in Oudtshoorn

Winter months from June to August in Oudtshoorn are characterized by lower temperatures, with average highs fluctuating between 16.8°C (62.2°F) and 18°C (64.4°F), and lows hovering around 6.8°C (44.2°F) to 7.3°C (45.1°F). Despite the cold, these months witness a moderate increase in rainfall, and the lowest amount of daylight and sunshine hours of the year. Nonetheless, the weather remains fair enough to cater to an array of indoor and outdoor activities.

Weather in January

Oudtshoorn kicks off its year with weather that leans towards the warmer side, conditions that are generally ideal for outdoor activities. The friendly weather patterns significantly influence the commencement of tourism activities around this time. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Officially in the second month, Oudtshoorn continues its characteristic warm weather, with more clear skies and daylight compared to the previous month. As the area steps further into the year, the presence of moisture slightly increases, while the wind speed reduces a bit. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Gearing into March, the city sees a slight shift in the prevailing weather patterns from the preceding two months. The warm temperatures preserve the amiable outdoor environment, complemented by conditions that are slightly less windy compared to February. Weather in March »

Weather in April

The weather in Oudtshoorn in April depicts a significant transition period, paving the way for imminent colder conditions. The wind speeds are maintained, albeit with increasingly less radiant sunshine dominating the day. Variations in weather patterns become more noticeable as the temperatures eschew March's warmth. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Oudtshoorn in May sets itself apart with distinctively colder weather when juxtaposed with the previous months. The noticeable drop in higher temperatures signals the definite transition away from the warmer part of the year. The cooler weather conditions persist with more cloud cover yet less rainfall compared to the preceding month. Weather in May »

Weather in June

The progression into June comes with continued cooling temperatures in the city of Oudtshoorn. Travel enthusiasts may want to equip themselves with warmer clothing as the days become significantly shorter and less sunny. Similarly, rainfall experiences an uptick while wind speeds ascend, a direct contrast to May's conditions. Weather in June »

Weather in July

Come July, Oudtshoorn experiences some of its coldest conditions of the year. The chilly season reaches its peak with the temperature hitting new lows. Encouragingly, even though the skies may be mostly cloud-covered, the city records less rainfall in contrast to the previous month. Weather in July »

Weather in August

A sense of continuity is observed in August with Oudtshoorn weather patterns that remain closely tethered to those of July. However, slightly warmer temperatures may be felt, with a gradual increase in daylight, although rainfalls may surge somewhat. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Entering September, Oudtshoorn embraces the arrival of spring with temperatures beginning to climb. As weather conditions gradually transition to warmth, the daylight hours increase, while the humidity holds steady. Despite being a brighter month, the rainfall tends to increase, breaking away from the rainfall recorded in August. Weather in September »

Weather in October

In October, Oudtshoorn continues on its upward trajectory in temperature, with longer daylight hours providing a perfect setting for tourists. The weather, undeniably, becomes more appealing, and outdoor activities increase in frequency. Weather in October »

Weather in November

The charm of November in Oudtshoorn lies in its perfectly balanced, warm but not excessively hot weather, making this month particularly popular among locals and tourists alike. With extended daylight hours, the city comes to life with abundant outdoor activities at the backdrop of partly cloudy skies. Weather in November »

Weather in December

As the final month of the year, December in Oudtshoorn has warm weather that matches the festive season's spirits. Thanks to the increased hours of daylight, outdoor events thrive during this period, while the shift in weather patterns from November is almost negligible. Weather in December »