Last updated: August 31, 2025
Experience the captivating weather of Grahamstown, South Africa in December, where temperatures can soar to a scorching 40°C (104°F), juxtaposed with a refreshing average of 20°C (68°F) and cooler nights dipping to 7°C (46°F). While basking in the sun, be prepared for occasional rain, with 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation expected over approximately 11 days. December’s high humidity at 80% creates a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for exploring this historic town and enjoying its festive spirit.
In December, Grahamstown, South Africa experiences a pleasant transition into summer with average temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F). The month starts with cool nights, where temperatures dip to a minimum of 7°C (46°F), but the days warm up nicely, reaching a maximum of 40°C (104°F). As the year winds down, it’s clear that Grahamstown tends to soften its coolness slightly compared to the earlier months, contrasting sharply with the coldest temperatures felt in the mid-year. With consistent warmth and occasional high peaks, December provides the ideal backdrop for enjoying outdoor festivities in this vibrant town.
In Grahamstown, South Africa, December marks a notable shift in the precipitation pattern as summer's arrival brings increased rainfall. With 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, December stands out as one of the wetter months of the year, showcasing a marked increase compared to the drier winter months that precede it. The transition from the minimal 5 mm in June to a more generous downpour highlights the growing intensity of summer rains, which not only rejuvenate the local landscape but also signify the onset of the growing season. As the year wraps up, the blend of warmth and moisture creates an inviting atmosphere, paving the way for vibrant changes in the region's flora and fauna.
In Grahamstown, South Africa, December ushers in a humidity level of 80%, reflecting a marked uptick in moisture as the year draws to a close. This month aligns closely with January's humid embrace, both showcasing a persistent humidity that gently ebbs and flows throughout the year. As we transition from the drier months of August (72%) and July (77%), it becomes clear that the late spring and summer months are characterized by higher humidity levels, peaking in March at 86%. Overall, a trend of increased humidity is evident as one moves from the cooler, drier periods in mid-year toward the warmer months, creating a lush and vibrant atmosphere as December invites a festive spirit in Grahamstown.
As December sweeps into Grahamstown, South Africa, the UV Index spikes back to 14, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of only 10 minutes. This trend reflects a consistent pattern across the summer months, as both January and February also boast similar high indices. Following the peak in autumn, where April’s index dropped to 8, summer returns to demand notable caution outdoors. Visitors and residents alike should remain vigilant, as the intensity of the sun during these months can lead to rapid skin damage. For more detailed information on UV levels and safety tips, check out Grahamstown UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Grahamstown, South Africa, December stands out as a radiant jewel in the yearly calendar, boasting an impressive 380 hours of sunshine. This peak in sun exposure is part of a broader trend, as the region experiences a steady increase in daylight hours leading up to the end of the year. From a modest 308 hours in January, the sun's embrace grows consistently, culminating in longer, brighter days. Following a slight dip in April and June, sunshine hours bounce back, reaching a remarkable high in October and November with 354 and 359 hours respectively. This delightful December glow offers both residents and visitors a vibrant backdrop for outdoor festivities, embodying the warm spirit of summer in South Africa.
In Grahamstown, South Africa, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a noticeable dip in December, with only a 29% chance of sunshine. This decrease becomes more pronounced as the year winds down, contrasting sharply with the sunnier conditions of the mid-year months, where July boasts a peak at 76%. The trend suggests a shift towards gloomier skies as summer progresses, following a relatively bright May and June. As anticipation for the summer holiday season grows, it becomes clear that those hoping for bright days in December may need to prepare for some cloud cover, as the chances for sun are at their lowest at this point in the year.
In Grahamstown, South Africa, December welcomes the longest days of the year, with 14 hours of daylight that invite outdoor adventures and festive gatherings. As we transition from the summer months of January and February, where daylight similarly stretches to 14 and 13 hours, it’s noticeable how the hours slowly diminish as autumn sets in, reaching a low of 9 hours in June. However, daylight gradually begins to return, rebounding to 10 hours in both July and August, before inching up again towards December. The seasonal rhythm highlights a pattern of gradually reducing daylight from March through May, balancing out to longer days as summer peaks in December, a reminder of the vibrant energy that accompanies the holiday season.
In Grahamstown, South Africa, December brings a gentle breeze, with average wind speeds settling at 3.8 m/s (8 mph). This month reflects a slight uptick from November, which also averaged 3.8 m/s, suggesting a stable wind pattern as the year draws to a close. As one looks back over the year, it’s interesting to note a seasonal shift: wind speeds peak in July at 4.0 m/s (9 mph) and October at 4.1 m/s, while the quieter months like April and May dipped to around 3.0 m/s (7 mph). The December wind, therefore, is a continuation of a mild yet refreshing trend, perfect for enjoying the festive ambiance while embracing the characteristics of this unique region.
Weather in Grahamstown varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Grahamstown, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing December and January weather, both months experience warm temperatures characterized by high averages, but January sees a slight increase in minimum and average temperatures. December's temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C to a maximum of 40°C, while January has slightly warmer readings, with a minimum of 9°C and a maximum of 41°C. Precipitation is also reduced in January, with 50 mm over 9 days compared to December's 64 mm over 11 days. Humidity remains constant at 80% for both months, contributing to the overall sultry atmosphere. For a more detailed look at January weather patterns, visit Grahamstown weather in January.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 40°C (104°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). This month experiences 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and the humidity hovers around 80%. In contrast, February sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), while still reaching up to 40°C (104°F). Precipitation increases to 73 mm (2.9 in), maintaining the same number of rainy days, but with a slightly lower humidity at 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Grahamstown weather in February.
When comparing the weather in December and March, we see some interesting similarities and differences. Both months feature an average temperature of around 20°C (68°F), but December's maximum temperature reaches up to 40°C (104°F), while March can peak slightly higher at 41°C (107°F). December experiences more precipitation, with 64 mm (2.5 in) across 11 days, compared to March's 52 mm (2.1 in) over 8 days, suggesting a slightly drier month as summer transitions into early autumn. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally higher in March at 86%, compared to December’s 80%. For a more detailed overview, you can check out Grahamstown weather in March.
In December, the weather is generally hotter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a scorching maximum of 40°C (104°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). The month also sees more rainfall, with 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days and an average humidity of 80%. In contrast, April experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 37°C (98°F), averaging around 17°C (64°F). The precipitation decreases to 45 mm (1.8 in) over 8 days, while humidity rises slightly to 85%. For a closer look at the weather specifics, you can check Grahamstown weather in April.
December weather is characterized by significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and average highs reaching up to 40°C (104°F). In contrast, May offers cooler conditions, featuring a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is also more prevalent in December, with about 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain over 11 days, compared to May's milder 22 mm (0.9 in) across just 5 days. Humidity is slightly elevated in May at 84%, compared to December's 80%, contributing to a different feel in the atmosphere. For more details, you can visit Grahamstown weather in May.
December weather is characterized by higher temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a scorching maximum of 40°C (104°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). In contrast, June experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Additionally, December sees significantly more rainfall, with 64 mm (2.5 in) spread over 11 days, while June is much drier, receiving only 5 mm (0.2 in) over just 2 days. Humidity remains relatively constant between the two months, at 80% in December and slightly lower at 79% in June. For more details on June weather in this region, you can visit Grahamstown weather in June.
In December, the weather is significantly warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a scorching maximum of 40°C (104°F), while the average temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 80% and more frequent precipitation, totaling 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days. In contrast, July sees much cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to a max of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is minimal, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) occurring over just three days, and humidity is slightly lower at 77%. For more specifics about July weather, you can check out Grahamstown weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can soar to a maximum of 40°C (104°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F) and a minimum of 7°C (46°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 80%. The month also sees more precipitation, averaging 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days. In contrast, August features much cooler conditions, with temperatures peaking at 32°C (90°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F); nighttime lows can drop to 1°C (34°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 28 mm (1.1 in) and occurs on only 5 days, along with a slightly lower humidity of 72%. For more detailed information, you can check Grahamstown weather in August.
December weather tends to be noticeably warmer than September, with average temperatures soaring to 20°C (68°F) compared to September's 15°C (60°F). The maximum temperature in December can reach up to 40°C (104°F), while September rarely exceeds 39°C (102°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, averaging 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, unlike September's milder 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 4 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with December at 80% and September at 79%. For more details, visit Grahamstown weather in September.
Comparing the weather between October and December reveals some notable differences. In December, the temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to an average of 20°C (68°F), peaking at a maximum of 40°C (104°F). This month experiences slightly higher humidity at 80% and more precipitation, totaling 64 mm over 11 days. In contrast, October shows a cooler climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), to a maximum of 42°C (108°F). Precipitation in October is lower at 53 mm over 8 days and with a humidity level of 77%. For a detailed look at the weather in October specifically, you can refer to Grahamstown weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, both months experience similar maximum temperatures, reaching up to 40°C (104°F). However, December tends to be slightly warmer on average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to an average of 20°C (68°F), compared to November's minimum of 5°C (42°F) and average of 18°C (64°F). Additionally, December sees a higher amount of precipitation at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, compared to November's 53 mm (2.1 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels are also marginally higher in December at 80%, compared to 78% in November. For more detailed information, you can visit Grahamstown weather in November.
December in Grahamstown showcases a vibrant and dynamic climate, distinctly different from other months. With warmer temperatures peaking at a sizzling 40°C, visitors can expect a notable shift from the cooler autumn and winter months. The average temperature of 20°C invites outdoor activities, while the minimum dips to a refreshing 7°C at night. Adventurous souls should be prepared for occasional rain, as 64 mm falls over about 11 days, contributing to the lush landscapes. The humidity levels climb to around 80%, enhancing the sultry ambiance typical of summer. For those curious about how this weather shapes the overall experience, explore more at Grahamstown Climate.