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Contents
- The climate of Port Elizabeth
- The best time to visit Port Elizabeth
- The worst time to visit Port Elizabeth
- Spring weather in Port Elizabeth
- Summer weather in Port Elizabeth
- Autumn weather in Port Elizabeth
- Winter weather in Port Elizabeth
- 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 Port Elizabeth
According to the Köppen climate classification, Port Elizabeth in South Africa is characterized by a Cfa climate, also known as humid subtropical with no dry season. This classification denotes a mild, humid climate with consistent rainfall throughout the year. Positioned geographically on the southeastern coastline of the country, Port Elizabeth is uniformally mild-to-warm, without major temperature extremes.
The lukewarm climate persists due to the rheostat influence of the Indian Ocean, causing the average high temperature to fluctuate from 19.7°C (67.5°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F) through the year. The winter annual lows, taking place from June to August, hover around 13.3°C (55.9°F). Rainfall ranges from 21mm (0.83") to 33mm (1.3") monthly and is relatively evenly distributed over the year, with the highest precipitation occurring from February to March, while May sees the driest spell.
The high humidity level, ranging from 62% to 76%, complements the subtropical classification, making Port Elizabeth's air feel more saturated, particularly in summer months. Unique patterns include the consistent visibility score of 10km (6.2mi) regardless of the month. While other parameters show a clear fluctuation like the wind conditions, with velocities varying between 16.4km/h (10.2mph) to 20.3km/h (12.6mph), Port Elizabeth's stable visibility remains untouched, promising clear skies.
The lukewarm climate persists due to the rheostat influence of the Indian Ocean, causing the average high temperature to fluctuate from 19.7°C (67.5°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F) through the year. The winter annual lows, taking place from June to August, hover around 13.3°C (55.9°F). Rainfall ranges from 21mm (0.83") to 33mm (1.3") monthly and is relatively evenly distributed over the year, with the highest precipitation occurring from February to March, while May sees the driest spell.
The high humidity level, ranging from 62% to 76%, complements the subtropical classification, making Port Elizabeth's air feel more saturated, particularly in summer months. Unique patterns include the consistent visibility score of 10km (6.2mi) regardless of the month. While other parameters show a clear fluctuation like the wind conditions, with velocities varying between 16.4km/h (10.2mph) to 20.3km/h (12.6mph), Port Elizabeth's stable visibility remains untouched, promising clear skies.
The best time to visit Port Elizabeth
Given the consistent rainfall and mild climate throughout the year, Port Elizabeth welcomes tourists at any time. However, if one wishes to avoid the humidity and rainfall, the months between April and June can be the preferred time to visit. During this period, though temperatures decline slightly, hitting a low of 13.6°C (56.5°F), the rainfall is comparatively less, with only 21mm (0.83") to 28mm (1.1") precipitation witnessed. Moreover, the daily sunshine duration increases, ranging from 6.8 hours to 6.9 hours.
The worst time to visit Port Elizabeth
While 'worst' is a relative term, tourists who have a distaste for high humidity should avoid visiting Port Elizabeth from November to March. During this span, the relative humidity stays above 74%, giving the air a heavier, more saturated feel. It is also the rainiest part of the year, with monthly precipitation levels exceeding 23mm (0.91").
Spring weather in Port Elizabeth
During September to November, Port Elizabeth experiences spring. The city sees higher temperatures, increasing from 19.8°C (67.6°F) to 24.6°C (76.3°F), and the rainfall, though still present, does not exceed 30mm (1.18"). Combined with a slight increase in daylight hours from 10.9 hours to 12.3 hours and more sunshine days, Spring can be a delightful season to visit and enjoy the city's outdoor beauty.
Summer weather in Port Elizabeth
Between December and February, summer arrives in Port Elizabeth. High temperatures during these months can reach up to 25.3°C (77.5°F), with lows hovering around 17.8°C (64°F). The city experiences the longest days, between 13.3 hours to 14.1 hours, and the highest overall sunshine levels, up to 9.8 hours per day. Despite being summer, there is constant rainfall which ranges from 25mm (0.98") to 33mm (1.3"), and the relative humidity does not fall below 74%.
Autumn weather in Port Elizabeth
Autumn in Port Elizabeth, from March to May, shows a notable drop in temperatures. While the early month of autumn sees a high of 24.6°C (76.3°F), by May, the mean high temperature falls down to 22°C (71.6°F). Rainfall continues consistently, ranging from 21mm (0.83") to 24mm (0.94"). However, despite falling temperatures, the city's prevailing humidity remains between 68% and 75%.
Winter weather in Port Elizabeth
Winter in Port Elizabeth, between June and August, is distinguished by the lowest temperature averages, falling between 19.7°C (67.5°F) and 20.1°C (68.2°F), but never dips too low. The rainfall remains steady, between 23mm (0.91") and 28mm (1.1"), and the relative humidity hovers between 62% and 66%, which is the lowest in the year. Despite the arrival of winter, Port Elizabeth maintains an average sea temperature around 19°C (66.2°F), which is relatively warm compared to many parts of the world during the same period.
Weather in January
January ushers in the New Year with warm weather prevailing in Port Elizabeth. The month brings the warmest day temperatures between 19.3°C (66.7°F) and 25.2°C (77.4°F), making it the well-suited for outdoor activities. Breezes from the East Cape provide a cooling effect, ensuring comfort while the city experiences the annual summer. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Alteration in weather conditions from January to February is minor in Port Elizabeth. The scenario constitutes a moderate decline in daylight to 13.3h, reducing sunshine hours to 9.2h, while maintaining the same UV index of 6. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March exhibits a transitional phase in weather conditions as the heatwave of summer gradually begins to wane. There is a slight drop in average temperatures, recording between 18.6°C (65.5°F) and 24.6°C (76.3°F). This change ushers in cooler evenings that extend the comfort provided by the prevalent Eastern Cape breeze towards the end of summer. Weather in March »
Weather in April
While April marks the onset of autumn, Port Elizabeth’s weather patterns record a mild change. The alteration in climatological conditions is evidenced by further lowered temperatures and a reduction in daylight to 11.3h, setting an ambiance fitting for indoor activities. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May brings a remarkable change in Port Elizabeth’s weather patterns, indicating a well-defined autumn. The month exhibits lower temperatures, recording a range between 15.2°C (59.4°F) and 22°C (71.6°F). A noticeable decline in sea temperature is observed, although it remains at a comfortable 20.3°C (68.5°F). Weather in May »
Weather in June
June, the peak of the Port Elizabeth winter, presents lower temperatures ranging from 13.6°C (56.5°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F). Amid these cooler conditions, a paradox prevails as it marks the least humid month with a relative humidity of 62%. Weather in June »
Weather in July
In line with winter trends, July maintains low temperatures in Port Elizabeth from 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 19.7°C (67.5°F). However, it is a uniquely calm month with the highest atmospheric pressure at 1021.9mb, leading to uncommon weather stability for this season. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August ushers in a transition from winter to spring in Port Elizabeth. With moderate climbing temperatures, ranging from 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 19.8°C (67.6°F), it displays the first hints of the incoming spring. Although the sea temperature is at its annual low, daylight time starts to increase, reaching 10.9h. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September signifies the arrival of spring in full swing. The temperatures climb further and range from 14.1°C (57.4°F) to 20.3°C (68.5°F) in Port Elizabeth and are accompanied by an increased frequency of rainfall. It is a season of gradual changes with slight increases in daylight, UV index, and humidity levels. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings further warmth to Port Elizabeth, validating its spring weather characteristics. Temperatures escalate between 15.6°C (60.1°F) and 21°C (69.8°F), creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. While rainfall elevates, it is largely scattered without disruptions, attributed to the ample sunshine for approximately 9.3h. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Novemeber extends the spring charm in Port Elizabeth while hinting the approaching summer. The temperatures mark an ascent from 16°C (60.8°F) to 22°C (71.6°F), indicating a steady progression towards the heat of December. The month moderates the rainfall and registers a decline, contrary to the general spring trend. Weather in November »
Weather in December
In December, Port Elizabeth graces the festive season with summer at its peak. The temperatures rise steadily from 17.8°C (64°F) to 23.5°C (74.3°F), encouraging outdoor activities and beach visits. Despite the rise in atmospheric pressure, the weather remains wind-free. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What are the most humid months in Port Elizabeth?
The months with the highest humidity in Port Elizabeth are January, February and December, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
How much does it rain in Port Elizabeth?
Throughout the year, there are 138.6 rainfall days, and 314mm (12.36") of precipitation is accumulated.
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Port Elizabeth?
January is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 22.1°C (71.8°F).
What is the month with the highest UV index in Port Elizabeth?
January, February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
What time of the year is the hottest in Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth witnesses the warmest weather in February, with temperatures averaging a high of 25.3°C (77.5°F) and a low of 19.5°C (67.1°F).
What is the wettest month in Port Elizabeth?
The month with the most rainfall in Port Elizabeth is March, when the rain falls for 12.8 days and typically aggregates up to 33mm (1.3") of precipitation.
When is the lowest UV index in Port Elizabeth?
The months with the lowest UV index are March through November, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the driest month in Port Elizabeth?
The month with the least rainfall in Port Elizabeth is May, when the rain falls for 8.4 days and typically collects 21mm (0.83") of precipitation.
What is the least humid month in Port Elizabeth?
The least humid month is June, with an average relative humidity of 62%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Port Elizabeth?
The month with the shortest days in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, is June, with an average of 10h and 0min of daylight.
What is the coldest month in Port Elizabeth?
With average temperatures fluctuating between a high of 19.7°C (67.5°F) and a low of 13.3°C (55.9°F), July stands out as the coldest month.
What month is the sea coldest in Port Elizabeth?
August is the month with the coldest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 18.5°C (65.3°F).
What is the month with the least sunshine in Port Elizabeth?
With an average of 6.5h of sunshine, August has the least sunshine of the year.
What month has the most sunshine in Port Elizabeth?
The month with the most sunshine in Port Elizabeth is November, with an average of 9.8h of sunshine.
When are the longest days in Port Elizabeth?
December has the longest days of the year in Port Elizabeth, with an average of 14h and 24min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). SAST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (25.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (19.7°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (19.5°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are July and August (13.3°C).
Average pressure
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Average pressure in January:
1013.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1013.6mbar - Average pressure in March:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in April:
1017.9mbar - Average pressure in May:
1018.1mbar - Average pressure in June:
1019.7mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1021.9mbar - Average pressure in August:
1019.6mbar - Average pressure in September:
1018.6mbar - Average pressure in October:
1017.4mbar - Average pressure in November:
1015.7mbar - Average pressure in December:
1014.2mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1021.9mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is January (1013.5mbar).
Average wind speed
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Average wind speed in January:
18.9km/h - Average wind speed in February:
17.9km/h - Average wind speed in March:
17.4km/h - Average wind speed in April:
17.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
16.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
19.5km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
19km/h - Average wind speed in August:
18.7km/h - Average wind speed in September:
19.9km/h - Average wind speed in October:
20.3km/h - Average wind speed in November:
20.1km/h - Average wind speed in December:
18.8km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is October (20.3km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is May (16.4km/h).
Average humidity
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February and December (76%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (62%).
Average rainfall
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is March (33mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is May (21mm).
Average rainfall days
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Average rainfall days in January:
14.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11 days - Average rainfall days in May:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
7.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
9.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
15.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (15.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (7.8 days).
Average sea temperature
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is January (22.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is August (18.5°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Port Elizabeth, 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:
10h and 0min
- 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:
12h and 5min - 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: 10h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in October:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
9h and 2min
The month with the most sunshine is November (Average sunshine: 9h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 6h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Average sunshine days in January:
10.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
10 days - Average sunshine days in March:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
21.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
21.1 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
20.2 days - Average sunshine days in August:
19.1 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
15 days - Average sunshine days in November:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11 days
The month with the most sunshine days is May (21.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (10 days).
Average UV index
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The months with the highest UV index are January, February and December (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 39).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 22).
Average visibility
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
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