March Weather in Mthatha, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In March, Mthatha, South Africa, experiences a diverse array of weather conditions, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 34°C (93°F) and an average temperature of 19°C (67°F). The cooler evenings bring temperatures down to a refreshing minimum of 9°C (48°F). This time of year is characterized by considerable precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 16 rainy days, contributing to a high humidity level of 89%. Travelers and locals alike can expect a blend of warm days and cool nights, making March an intriguing month for experiencing the vibrant climate of Mthatha.

March Temperature in Mthatha

In March, Mthatha, South Africa begins to transition into the cooler months, with temperatures reflecting this shift. The minimum temperature hovers around 9°C (48°F), slightly cooler than in February, while the average dips to about 19°C (67°F). The region still enjoys warmth during the day, as evidenced by a maximum of 34°C (93°F), marking a gradual decline from January and February's peak heat. This month encapsulates a comfortable balance between the lingering summer vibes and the approaching chill of autumn, making it an ideal time to explore the beauty of Mthatha before the temperatures drop further in April.

March Weather in Mthatha: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Mthatha, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Mthatha, March typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec686866625855545559616365
Data source: Temperature data for Mthatha generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Mthatha

March in Mthatha, South Africa, sees a moderate rainfall of 127 mm (5.0 in), continuing the trend established in the preceding months. With rain falling on approximately 16 days, the precipitation levels remain consistent, just slightly below February's peak of 172 mm. This pattern suggests a shift from the wetter summer months towards the drier autumn, as April usually brings even less rain at 111 mm (4.4 in). While March still showcases a notable amount of precipitation, the gradual decline hints at the seasonal transition, making it a crucial period for the region as it prepares for the drier days ahead.

March Precipitation Trends in Mthatha

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Mthatha, with values for each month alongside March’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how March’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Mthatha, March typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12317212711134207383998115153
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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March Humidity in Mthatha

In March, Mthatha experiences a slight increase in humidity, reaching 89%, which is consistent with the humid conditions of the preceding months, January and February, both recorded at 88%. This uptick signals the onset of the wetter season in the region, maintaining a high humidity trend that persists into April. However, as the year progresses, there is a noticeable decline in moisture levels, with humidity dropping to 82% by June, before reaching its lowest point in August at 72%. Despite this dip, humidity begins to rise again in September, showcasing the dynamic climate patterns that define Mthatha throughout the year.

March Average Humidity in Mthatha

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mthatha, with March’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In March, average humidity in Mthatha is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%88%89%89%88%82%77%72%82%83%88%88%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Mthatha

In March, Mthatha, South Africa experiences a UV Index of 12, categorizing it as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This slight decrease from the previous months' figures underscores a gradual dip in UV intensity as autumn approaches. However, despite this slight reduction, the risk remains high, echoing the extreme conditions seen in January and February. As daylight hours lengthen, residents and visitors alike should continue to take protective measures against UV exposure. To stay informed about the evolving UV levels, check out the detailed forecast at Mthatha UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mthatha for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mthatha in March, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In March, the maximum UV index in Mthatha typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1514129644710121315
Data source: Mthatha March UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

March Sunshine in Mthatha

March in Mthatha, South Africa, shines brightly with 326 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful peak just as summer begins to fade. Following a vibrant February, which brought 300 hours, March showcases a noticeable upward trend in daylight, hinting at longer, sunnier days. This increase is part of a consistent pattern, as sunlight hours generally rise from January's 280 hours and remain robust into the autumn months. Even with a dip in April to 295 hours, the surrounding months maintain a healthy balance, indicating that Mthatha enjoys a generous share of sunshine through the year. This trend not only enhances the region’s natural beauty but also enriches the local culture and outdoor lifestyle.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mthatha: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Mthatha experiences direct sunlight during the month of March, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of March with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec280h300h326h295h302h282h303h313h316h346h325h348h
Data source: Mthatha March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Mthatha During March

In Mthatha, South Africa, March marks a notable increase in the likelihood of sunny weather, boasting a 37% chance of sunshine. This is a significant jump from the cloudier months of January and February, which see only 27% and 21% of sunny days, respectively. As the seasons change, April follows suit with an even brighter 43% chance, hinting at the arrival of more consistent sunshine as the year progresses. This upward trend is particularly striking as the region transitions into the winter months, where July shines the brightest with an impressive 85% likelihood of clear skies. Overall, March sets the stage for sunnier days ahead, offering a perfect opportunity to embrace the outdoors as the weather begins to warm.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Mthatha

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mthatha throughout the year, with March highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Mthatha experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec27%21%37%43%71%70%85%64%44%38%27%17%
Data source: Mthatha March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mthatha in March

In March, Mthatha experiences a notable decrease in daylight duration, with the sun lingering in the sky for 12 hours—a drop from the steady 13 hours seen in January and February. This shift signals the onset of autumn, as daylight begins to gradually shorten leading into the cooler months. Following March, April sees a further reduction to 11 hours, continuing the trend of diminishing daylight until it stabilizes at 10 hours during the winter months of June and July. However, nature's cycle soon reverses, bringing back longer days by September, culminating in December when daylight peaks at an inviting 14 hours. This rhythm of fluctuating daylight not only shapes the local climate but also influences the activities and lifestyles of those living in Mthatha throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Mthatha for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mthatha throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 55m13h 10m12h 14m11h 16m10h 29m10h 6m10h 18m10h 59m11h 54m12h 52m13h 43m14h 9m
Data source: Mthatha daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Mthatha

As March arrives in Mthatha, South Africa, the gentle caress of the wind sees an average speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), slightly tapering from February's consistent breeze. This gentle decline in wind speed is part of a noticeable trend as the months progress from the early summer heat; January and February maintain a steady 2.4 m/s. However, March's winds, while modest, set the stage for the transition into cooler seasons, with April following closely at 2.2 m/s. Interestingly, the wind speed begins to pick up again in the winter months, with July reaching 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This ebb and flow not only emphasizes the region's mild climate but also heralds the shifting seasons, as the winds whisper change through Mthatha's landscape.

Average March Wind Speed in Mthatha

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mthatha, with values for each month shown alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how March's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.42.42.3 m/s2.22.32.42.72.62.52.62.82.5
Data source: Mthatha March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Mthatha Compares to Other Months

Weather in Mthatha varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares March’s weather to other months in Mthatha, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

March and January exhibit fairly similar weather patterns, with both months showcasing mild temperatures and significant humidity. In March, the temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). In contrast, January has slightly higher minimum and average temperatures, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 36°C (96°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is also comparable, with March receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) of rain over 16 days and January experiencing 123 mm (4.8 in) over 17 days. Despite these similarities, March tends to be slightly cooler and wetter than January. For a more detailed comparison, check out Mthatha weather in January.

In comparing the weather between March and February, we see that both months experience relatively warm conditions, with February having slightly higher average temperatures and maximums. February's average temperature is 20°C (68°F) with a maximum of 35°C (96°F), while March averages 19°C (67°F) and peaks at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation is notably higher in February, with 172 mm (6.8 in) falling over 19 days, compared to March's 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with February at 88% and March slightly higher at 89%. For more detailed insights, you can check Mthatha weather in February.

March and April weather displays some notable differences, despite having similar maximum temperatures. In March, the minimum temperature is slightly higher at 9°C (48°F), with an average of 19°C (67°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (93°F). The month also experiences more precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 rainy days, contributing to a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, April sees a decrease in the minimum temperature to 5°C (41°F) and a slight drop in the average to 17°C (62°F), although it maintains a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Precipitation in April is lower, at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains consistent at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check Mthatha weather in April.

In March, the weather is considerably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). This month also experiences a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity of 89%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging at 15°C (59°F). Additionally, May sees much less precipitation at 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days, while still maintaining a similar humidity level at 88%. For more detailed insights, you can check Mthatha weather in May.

March and June showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. March experiences a wider temperature range with a minimum of 9°C and a maximum reaching up to 34°C, averaging around 19°C. It’s also a much wetter month, with 127 mm of precipitation over 16 days and a high humidity of 89%. In contrast, June sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C and a maximum of 27°C, averaging only 13°C. The precipitation drastically drops to 20 mm across just 2 days, with humidity slightly lower at 82%. For a closer look at June weather specifics, you can refer to Mthatha weather in June.

In comparing the weather between March and July, it's clear that March is significantly warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). In contrast, July experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F), an average of 12°C (55°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, March has considerably higher precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, while July sees only 7 mm (0.3 in) over just 1 day. The humidity in March is notably high at 89%, compared to 77% in July. For more detailed insights, you can check out this link: Mthatha weather in July.

March and August showcase contrasting weather patterns. In March, temperatures can reach a maximum of 34°C (93°F), creating warmer days with an average of 19°C (67°F) and a higher humidity level of 89%. This month also experiences significant rainfall, with 127 mm (5.0 in) over about 16 days, making it one of the wetter months. In contrast, August brings cooler weather, with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). The month sees less precipitation, totaling only 38 mm (1.5 in) over 7 days, and a more comfortable humidity level of 72%. For more details on August's conditions, you can visit Mthatha weather in August.

March and September exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. March tends to be warmer, with average temperatures around 19°C (67°F), and a maximum that can reach up to 34°C (93°F). However, it also experiences higher humidity at 89% and significant rainfall of 127 mm (5.0 in) across 16 days. In contrast, September sees cooler conditions with an average temperature of 15°C (60°F) and maximum temperatures peaking at 37°C (98°F). This month is much drier, with only 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over just 6 days and lower humidity at 82%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Mthatha weather in September.

March and October present contrasting weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 19°C (67°F). This month is characterized by higher humidity at 89% and more significant rainfall, with 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days. In comparison, October boasts cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average high of 37°C (99°F), although the average temperature is lower at 16°C (62°F). Additionally, October sees less precipitation at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days and a slightly lower humidity level of 83%. For a closer look at October's specific weather conditions, you can check out Mthatha weather in October.

March and November exhibit distinct weather patterns, with March generally experiencing warmer temperatures. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), while November sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F). Although November is marginally cooler on average, it can still reach quite high temperatures. Both months are characterized by considerable precipitation, with March receiving about 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days and November slightly less at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 17 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with March at 89% and November at 87%. For more detailed information, you can check Mthatha weather in November.

In comparing the weather between March and December, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with an average temperature of around 19°C (66°F) and maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (93-94°F). However, March tends to have slightly higher minimum temperatures, averaging 9°C (48°F) compared to December's 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is more substantial in December, with 153 mm (6.0 in) spread across 20 days, compared to March's 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, indicating a wetter month overall. Humidity levels remain high in both months, hovering around 89% in March and 88% in December. For further details, you can check out the complete information on Mthatha weather in December.

Compare Mthatha's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Mthatha

March in Mthatha ushers in a notable shift in weather, marked by a blend of warmth and humidity. With temperature highs reaching a toasty 34°C, the month is generally warmer compared to the milder days of earlier months. However, the rising humidity, often hovering around 89%, adds a sultry edge to the atmosphere. This transition brings about increased precipitation, with rain gracing the area on about 16 days, setting March apart as a time when lush greenery flourishes. For a deeper insight into how March compares to other months in this vibrant region, explore Mthatha Climate.