Climate and monthly weather forecast
Richards Bay, South Africa

Richards Bay, a city on the east coast of South Africa, has a humid subtropical climate classified as Cfa according to the Köppen climate classification system. This type of climate is characterized by no dry season and an annual temperature that fluctuates over the course of the year. Sea temperatures range from a minimum of 21.6°C (70.9°F) in August to a maximum of 26.9°C (80.4°F) in February. These fluctuations carry over to monthly average daylight hours with the shortest hours recorded in July at 10.3, and the longest in December at 14.

The average monthly sea temperatures remain above 21.6°C (70.9°F) year-round, providing a warm coastal environment. The trend of daylight hours follows a sinusoidal pattern, increasing from the start of the year, peaking in the middle and decreasing towards the end.

Distinctive weather patterns include the consistent warm sea temperatures throughout the year, providing ideal conditions for aquatic activities. The amount of daylight experienced also fluctuates, affecting the length of days from more than 14 hours in December to slightly over 10 in July.

The best time to visit Richards Bay, keeping in mind the city's climate and weather trends, would arguably be during the summer months when sea temperatures peak and daylight hours are longest. From January to February, sea temperatures are between 26.8°C (80.2°F) and 26.9°C (80.4°F). Additionally, the number of daylight hours float around 13, maximizing outdoor activities during these months.

On the contrary, the months offering less favorable conditions for visiting Richards Bay are between July and August. During these months, the sea temperatures drop to their lowest annual levels, measuring between 21.6°C (70.9°F) and 22.2°C (72°F). Moreover, daylight hours reduce to their shortest, lingering around 10.5, which might limit outdoor activities.

Spring in Richards Bay, spanning from September to November, witnesses a marginal increase in both sea temperatures and daylight hours. The temperature during this period stiffens from 22.4°C (72.3°F) in September to 23.7°C (74.7°F) in November. Concurrently, daylight hours elongate from 11.9 in September to 13.5 in November.

From December to February, Richards Bay experiences its summer, characterized by the highest sea temperatures and longest daylight hours. Temperatures in these months peak at 26.9°C (80.4°F) in February while dropping to 26.8°C (80.2°F) in January and December. Correspondingly, daylight hours reach their zenith at 14 in December, shortening to 13.5 in January and 13.1 in February.

In the months from March to May which mark the city's autumn, a steady decline is observed in both sea temperatures and daylight hours. Sea temperatures falter from 26.8°C (80.2°F) in March to a nadir of 23.1°C (73.6°F) in May. The daylight hours concomitantly contract from 12.3 in March to 10.7 in May.

The winter months in Richards Bay, from June to August, experience the lowest sea temperatures and shortest daylight hours. The sea temperature wavers from 22.8°C (73°F) in June to 21.6°C (70.9°F) in August. Likewise, daylight hours oscillate from 10.6 in June to a minimum of 10.3 in July before reascending to 11.1 in August.

Kicking off the year, January in Richards Bay presents warmer sea temperature trends than in the forthcoming months. Slightly fluctuating, the mercury hits a high at 26.8°C (80.2°F). As one of the sunniest periods of the year, the city is quite outstanding for beach tourism. Weather in January »

In February, there's a minute increase in the sea temperature moving up to 26.9°C (80.4°F), maintaining the previously recorded warm conditions. Despite this, the duration of daylight decreases progressively compared to January. Weather in February »

The transition from February to March registers a slight drop in the sea temperature settling at 26.8°C (80.2°F). However, this reduction does not significantly disrupt water-related activities as the sea remains warm. The daylight hours start to decrease noticeably, signifying the approach of fall. Weather in March »

April carries a notable reduction in Richards Bay's sea temperature, a clear departure from the preceding months, coming down to 25.7°C (78.3°F). Though not drastic, this shift ushers in a bit more moderate weather conditions. The fall regime is now in full effect demonstrated by further reduction in daylight hours. Weather in April »

There are further drops in the sea temperature in May, sliding to 24.3°C (75.7°F) marking the onset of winter in Richards Bay. This period sees decreased water activities due to the colder sea conditions. Reduced daylight hours add a chill to the air, and the city takes on a noticeably quiet atmosphere. Weather in May »

As winter takes a firm grip on Richards Bay, June continues the downward trend in sea temperature sinking to 23.1°C (73.6°F). The city's weather condition encourages more indoor activities. Despite the cooler temperatures, water conditions are still favorable for marine life, attracting fishing enthusiasts. Weather in June »

Entering the heart of winter, temperatures plunge to the year's lowest in July with the sea reaching 22.2°C (72°F). This significant decline in temperature marks the coolest month in Richards Bay. The reduced glare of daylight provides relief to wildlife, initiating increased activities in animals. Weather in July »

In August, temperatures experience a slower decline, whispering the end of winter with the sea at 21.6°C (70.9°F). While water activities remain relatively low, the city's winter ambiance provides a refreshing experience for inhabitants and tourists alike. Weather in August »

September brings some warmth back to Richards Bay, raising the sea temperature up to 22.4°C (72.3°F). This signals the start of spring, introducing longer daylight hours and more outdoor activity options. The budding flowers and the renewed vigor of wildlife add a colorful charm to the city. Weather in September »

In October, the warming trend continues as the sea temperature climbs to 22.8°C (73°F). This rise enhances the pleasant spring conditions in Richards Bay. This warmer period is a delightful time for locals and tourists to discover the city and its surroundings. Weather in October »

Expect a significant rise in Richards Bay's sea temperature in November, reaching 23.7°C (74.7°F), reinforcing the end of spring and the beginning of summer. The expanding daylight hours provide enhanced opportunities for outdoor activities. Weather in November »

Transitioning into the peak of summer, December continues the upward trend in Richards Bay's sea temperature, peaking at 25.3°C (77.5°F). Coupled with the highest amount of daylight hours, the city is at its liveliest. The weather is most suitable for a wide range of activities, from sunbathing on the beaches to exploring the city's vibrant nightlife. Weather in December »