October Weather in Mthatha, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

October in Mthatha, South Africa exhibits a notable shift in weather patterns, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a blistering 37°C (99°F) during the day, averaging around 16°C (62°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 12 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with an average humidity of 83%. As the spring season unfolds, the blend of warm days and occasional rains makes October a unique time in Mthatha, ideal for experiencing the vibrant changes in nature.

October Temperature in Mthatha

In Mthatha, South Africa, the month of October marks a transition as it prepares for the warmer summer months ahead. With minimum temperatures resting at 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), the chill of winter is finally behind. The maximum temperatures can soar up to an impressive 37°C (99°F), echoing a trend of rising heat as the year progresses. This dynamic month sees a warmer average compared to the preceding months, signaling the onset of sunny days. As the days grow longer and brighter, locals and visitors alike welcome the warmth, making October a vibrant time in Mthatha's climate calendar.

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

The chart illustrates October 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, October 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.

October Precipitation in Mthatha

October brings a noteworthy shift in Mthatha's weather as the region experiences an average precipitation of 98 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 12 days of rain. This marks a significant increase from the drier winter months—July and August, which saw minimal rainfall. As the seasons turn, this uptick in precipitation foreshadows the lushness of spring and the impending summer. In comparison to the preceding months, October's rainfall is more than double that of June and July, hinting at the gradual transition towards the wetter conditions anticipated in November and December. This pattern highlights Mthatha's dynamic climate, where the crisp change in October paves the way for a revitalization of the landscape.

October Precipitation Trends in Mthatha

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

In October, Mthatha experiences a notable shift in humidity, with levels reaching 83%. This marks a slight increase from the drier months of August and July, which saw humidity drop to 72% and 77%, respectively. The transition into spring is evident as the air becomes a bit more humid, hinting at the coming summer months. Throughout the year, Mthatha maintains relatively high humidity levels, peaking in the late summer and early autumn, with January and February hitting 88%. Despite this slight dip during the winter months, the increase in October signals a return to the more humid climate typical of this region. The higher humidity not only contributes to the lush landscapes but also indicates a gradual warming trend, setting the stage for the summer heat ahead.

October Average Humidity in Mthatha

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mthatha, with October’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In October, 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 October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in Mthatha

In October, Mthatha experiences a UV Index of 12, categorizing sun exposure as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV levels persists throughout the spring season, as noted from September's UV Index of 10 and leading into November's increase to 13. The months leading up to October show a gradual decline from the intense summer indices, but the sun’s intensity remains significant. Observing protective measures is crucial during this period to avoid overexposure. As the sun stays consistently aggressive, those venturing outdoors should be vigilant of the UV levels. For more insights on daily UV exposure, visit Mthatha UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mthatha for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mthatha in October, 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 October, the maximum UV index in Mthatha typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1514129644710121315
Data source: Mthatha October 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.

October Sunshine in Mthatha

As October rolls into Mthatha, South Africa, residents can bask in an impressive 346 hours of sunshine, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. This delightful peak follows a steady increase in sunlight hours from the beginning of the year, with a notable rise from the 316 hours recorded in September. Each month preceding October has shown its own strengths, with March boasting 326 hours and May close behind at 302 hours. However, October stands out not only for its plentiful sunshine but also for the warm transition into summer, setting the stage for the sun-soaked days of November and December, where sunshine hours remain consistently high at 325 and 348 respectively. It's a brilliant time for outdoor activities, as Mthatha basks in the glow of spring’s radiance.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mthatha: October Highlighted

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

Chance of Sun in Mthatha During October

In Mthatha, South Africa, October offers a glimpse of spring as the likelihood of sunny weather sits at 38%. This marks a modest rise compared to the chill of the preceding months; however, it lags behind peaks experienced in the mid-winter months of July and August, which soar to an impressive 85% and 64% respectively. As the seasons transition, October's sun shines brighter than in the cooler spring months of September and November, where the chances drop to 44% and 27%. Overall, while October may not bless residents with abundant sunshine, it hints at the warmer and sunnier days to come, steering them towards the sun-soaked promise of the approaching summer.

Percentage of Sunny Days in October in Mthatha

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mthatha throughout the year, with October 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 October chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mthatha in October

As the year progresses in Mthatha, South Africa, daylight duration showcases a fascinating rhythm. Beginning with 13 hours of daylight in both January and February, the days gradually shorten as we transition into March, bringing 12 hours of sunlight. April marks a noticeable decrease to 11 hours, leading into the cooler months of May through August, where the daylight stabilizes at 10 hours. However, come September, daylight begins its ascent once more, echoing the lengthening hours of spring. In October, the sun rises again to provide 12 hours of daylight, paving the way for longer days ahead, culminating in November with another return to 13 hours and steadily climbing to 14 hours by December. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the seasonal changes but also enhances the vibrant lifestyle characteristic of this region.

Average Daylight Hours in Mthatha for October

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mthatha throughout the year, with October 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.

October Winds in Mthatha

October in Mthatha, South Africa, brings a gentle breeze, with average wind speeds settling at 2.6 m/s (6 mph). This slight uptick mirrors the gradual increase in wind intensity observed in the preceding months, making October feel pleasantly invigorating. Following the more tranquil winds of the earlier months, October continues the trend of moderate breezes, setting the stage for a lively transition into summer. As November approaches, the wind speed is expected to increase further, providing a refreshing contrast to the warmer temperatures typical of this time of year. Overall, October's winds serve as a harbinger of change, echoing nature's gradual shift toward the vibrant months ahead.

Average October Wind Speed in Mthatha

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mthatha, with values for each month shown alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how October's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.42.42.32.22.32.42.72.62.52.6 m/s2.82.5
Data source: Mthatha October wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How October 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 October’s weather to other months in Mthatha, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In October, the weather presents a more varied temperature range, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum soaring up to 37°C (99°F), leading to an average temperature of 16°C (62°F). However, this month also experiences significant rainfall with 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 12 days, along with a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, January showcases a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F), averaging at 20°C (68°F). It is also wetter, receiving 123 mm (4.8 in) of precipitation over 17 days and a slightly higher humidity of 88%. For further details on January weather, you can visit Mthatha weather in January.

October and February present distinct weather patterns that reflect the transitional climate. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). The month experiences around 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with humidity levels at 83%. In contrast, February is generally warmer, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a high of 35°C (96°F) and an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). However, it also sees increased rainfall, totaling 172 mm (6.8 in) across 19 days, and higher humidity at 88%. For more detailed weather information specific to February, check out Mthatha weather in February.

In comparing the weather of October and March, October tends to feature cooler temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), while March starts off warmer, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are relatively similar, peaking at 37°C (99°F) in October and 34°C (93°F) in March. However, March experiences higher precipitation levels, with 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days compared to October's 98 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in March at 89% compared to 83% in October. For a detailed look at March weather, you can visit Mthatha weather in March.

In October, temperatures in Mthatha range from a cooler minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 16°C (62°F), peaking at a warm 37°C (99°F). The month experiences about 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with humidity averaging 83%. Conversely, April sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F), and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 111 mm (4.4 in) across the same number of rainy days, but humidity rises to 89%. For more details on April weather, visit Mthatha weather in April.

October and May present distinct weather patterns, with October typically experiencing more variability in temperature. October boasts an impressive temperature range, with minimums dipping to 3°C (38°F) and maximums soaring up to 37°C (99°F), while the average temperature hovers around 16°C (62°F). In contrast, May records a narrower temperature range, with lows of 2°C (36°F) and highs of 29°C (85°F), averaging 15°C (59°F).

Precipitation levels also illustrate a stark difference; October records significant rainfall at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days, whereas May sees much less with only 34 mm (1.3 in) falling over just 5 days. Humidity is high in both months, but slightly greater in May at 88%, compared to 83% in October. For a detailed look at May conditions, you can refer to Mthatha weather in May.

October presents a wider temperature range compared to June, with minimums reaching 3°C (38°F) and maximums soaring up to 37°C (99°F), resulting in an average temperature of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, June features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 27°C (82°F), yielding an average of 13°C (55°F). October also experiences significantly more precipitation, measuring 98 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days, while June is relatively dry with only 20 mm (0.8 in) over 2 days. Interestingly, humidity levels are quite similar, with October at 83% and June slightly lower at 82%. For a closer look at June's weather patterns, you can check Mthatha weather in June.

In comparing the weather of October and July, October tends to be warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, July experiences 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, October sees significantly more rainfall, with 98 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 12 days, while July is quite dry with only 7 mm (0.3 in) across just 1 day. Despite the cooler temperatures in July, it has lower humidity at 77%, compared to October's higher humidity level of 83%. For more details on July weather in Mthatha, visit Mthatha weather in July.

When comparing the weather of October and August, October tends to be noticeably warmer, with average temperatures reaching 16°C (62°F) compared to August's 13°C (55°F). The maximum temperatures can soar to 37°C (99°F) in October, while August peaks at a comfortable 31°C (88°F). Additionally, October is wetter, experiencing 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, whereas August only sees 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain across 7 days. Moreover, October has a higher humidity level at 83%, compared to August's 72%. For more specific details about August weather, visit Mthatha weather in August.

In comparing the weather between October and September, October experiences slightly warmer average temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C and an average of 16°C, compared to September's minimum of 2°C and average of 15°C. Both months share the same maximum temperature of 37°C, but October sees a significant increase in precipitation at 98 mm over 12 days, while September averages only 39 mm over 6 days. Humidity levels are also quite similar, with October at 83% and September at 82%. For more detailed insights on September's weather, you can check Mthatha weather in September.

In comparing October and November, we can see a slight shift in temperature and precipitation patterns. October features a broader range of temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 37°C (99°F), while November begins with a higher minimum of 6°C (44°F) and an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation increases in November, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over 17 days, compared to October's 98 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days. The humidity also rises slightly from 83% in October to 87% in November, making the latter month feel somewhat more damp. For more details on November weather in Mthatha, you can check out Mthatha weather in November.

In comparing the weather between October and December, we notice a few notable differences. October tends to be warmer, with average temperatures around 16°C (62°F) and a maximum of 37°C (99°F), while December sees a slightly milder average of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). October experiences about 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, whereas December is wetter, with 153 mm (6.0 in) of rainfall over 20 days. Humidity also increases in December, averaging 88%, compared to 83% in October. For a more detailed view of December's weather, you can check Mthatha weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From October Weather in Mthatha

As October unfolds in Mthatha, the weather showcases a unique blend of warmth and moisture, marking a distinctive transition from the cooler months. With temperatures peaking at a surprising 37°C, this month offers more warmth compared to the preceding months, yet still retains a comfortable average of 16°C. The air is notably humid at 83%, creating a lively atmosphere despite the increased precipitation of 98 mm over about 12 days. This mixture of warmth and wetness sets October apart, paving the way for the vibrant landscapes of the upcoming summer. For a detailed look at how Mthatha's October fits into its yearly climate, visit Mthatha Climate.