January Weather in Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

January in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, is characterized by warm temperatures and moderate humidity, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), the month offers plenty of sunny days ideal for outdoor activities. The minimum temperature can drop to a comfortable 16°C (60°F) during the evenings. Although January experiences some rainfall, with a total of 26 mm (1.0 in) over seven days, the humidity remains relatively high at 79%, adding to the city's vibrant, coastal charm. Whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring local attractions, January in Port Elizabeth delivers a delightful blend of warmth and moisture.

January Temperature in Port Elizabeth

In January, Port Elizabeth basks in a warm embrace, with temperatures ranging from a refreshing 16°C (60°F) at night to a sun-kissed 30°C (86°F) during the day. This month showcases an inviting average of 21°C (71°F), perfect for enjoying outdoor activities along the stunning coastline. As the season transitions into February, the mercury climbs slightly, peaking at 33°C (91°F), yet the evenings remain comfortably mild at 14°C (58°F). The consistent average of 21°C (71°F) continues, making it a delightful time for beachgoers. March mirrors this trend, offering similar averages but a subtle dip in maximum temperatures, creating a cozy ambiance. As the months unfold towards winter, the temperatures gradually decline, with April and May bringing cooler evenings and daytime highs that linger around 29°C (84°F). Despite these changes, the pleasant average temperatures remain a hallmark of the region, ensuring that Port Elizabeth retains its charm year-round.

January Weather in Port Elizabeth: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Port Elizabeth, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Port Elizabeth, January 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec707069656362605961636568
Data source: Temperature data for Port Elizabeth generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Port Elizabeth

In January, Port Elizabeth experiences relatively low precipitation, with an average of only 26 mm (1.0 in) spread across about 7 days of rain. This sets the stage for a dry start to the year, contrasting sharply with February, which sees a significant increase in rainfall to 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days. As summer progresses, precipitation levels remain elevated, peaking in August at 52 mm (2.0 in), indicating a trend toward wetter conditions during the month. Following this, the rains begin to taper off by late autumn, with April and June showing the lowest averages at 28 mm (1.1 in) and 20 mm (0.8 in), respectively. Overall, the monthly data suggest a clear pattern of warmer, wetter conditions in the summer months, with precipitation gradually declining as the year transitions into winter.

January Precipitation Trends in Port Elizabeth

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Port Elizabeth, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Port Elizabeth, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec264742283020335239364745
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Port Elizabeth

In January, Port Elizabeth experiences a humidity level of 79%, setting the stage for a moist summer month. As we transition into February, humidity slightly rises to 81%, indicating a trend of increasing moisture that peaks in March at 83%. Following this climactic high, humidity gently recedes in April to 80%, before consistently easing to 76% in May. The cooler months of June and August bring lower humidity levels, dropping to 72% and 72%, respectively, while September and October see a mild rebound to 75% and 76%. Maintaining a steady rhythm, November and December both hover around 76% and 78%, ensuring that while January starts off the year humid, overall trends showcase a gradual decline leading into the cooler winter months.

January Average Humidity in Port Elizabeth

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Port Elizabeth, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Port Elizabeth is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%81%83%80%76%72%74%72%75%76%76%79%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Port Elizabeth

In January, Port Elizabeth experiences an intense UV Index of 14, classifying it in the extreme exposure category, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern of high UV exposure persists into February, maintaining an index of 13, before gradually dipping in March to 11. As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index trends downward, dropping to 8 in April and further decreasing through the cooler months. By May and June, the index stabilizes around 5 to 4, indicating a moderate risk that allows for longer sun exposure times of approximately 30 minutes. The UV levels see a slight resurgence as spring approaches, reaching 8 in September and peaking again in the months leading up to the new year. This cyclical pattern highlights the importance of sun safety throughout the year, especially during the summer months when the risk is at its highest. For more details, check the Port Elizabeth UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Port Elizabeth for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Port Elizabeth in January, 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 January, the maximum UV index in Port Elizabeth typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141311854468101214
Data source: Port Elizabeth January 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.

January Sunshine in Port Elizabeth

In January, Port Elizabeth basks in 327 hours of glorious sunshine, setting a vibrant tone for the rest of the summer. As the month unfolds, the sunny days gradually intensify, peaking in December with an impressive 404 hours of sunlight. This trend showcases a delightful increase in daylight as the year progresses, with February and March enjoying 343 and 354 hours respectively, making them equally appealing for outdoor adventures. However, as autumn approaches in April, the sunshine dips to 305 hours, signaling a transition toward cooler weather. Despite this decline, the city manages to maintain a respectable amount of sunny days throughout winter, with July and August offering 297 and 310 hours of sun, respectively. Overall, Port Elizabeth's evolving sunshine hours reflect the charm of its coastal climate, captivating visitors all year round.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Port Elizabeth: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Port Elizabeth experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec327h343h354h305h296h277h297h310h323h368h377h404h
Data source: Port Elizabeth January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Port Elizabeth During January

In Port Elizabeth, January offers a 56% chance of sunny weather, mirroring the conditions of February. This promising outlook for early summer gives way to a slight decline in sunshine during the autumn months, where probabilities drop to 48% in March and 45% in April. As the seasons shift, sunniness tends to rebound, peaking in the winter months of July and June at 72% and 69%, respectively. Interestingly, the weather remains relatively bright in May and August, both holding 62% likelihood of sunny days. Conversely, late spring and early winter months diminish in brightness, with chances plummeting to 40% in December and 44% in November. This fluctuation highlights the enduring appeal of Port Elizabeth’s summer sun, setting a cheerful tone for those seeking warmth in January.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Port Elizabeth

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Port Elizabeth throughout the year, with January 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 Port Elizabeth experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec56%56%48%45%62%69%72%62%45%53%44%40%
Data source: Port Elizabeth January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Port Elizabeth in January

In Port Elizabeth, South Africa, January shines as the month with the longest daylight duration, offering around 14 hours of sunlight to bask in. As the calendar shifts to February, the days gradually shorten to 13 hours, indicating the subtle transition toward autumn. This downward trend continues through March and April, with daylight dropping to 12 and 11 hours respectively. However, the light dips to its lowest point in June, when only 9 hours of sunlight graces the city. The following months witness a gradual increase in daylight again, with July and August returning to 10 hours each, before climbing back to 12 hours in October. As the year draws to a close, the cycle completes with November and December regaining the 13 and 14 hours of daylight, reminiscent of the vibrant start to the year. This cyclical rhythm of daylight not only shapes daily life in Port Elizabeth but also highlights the region's unique seasonal climate.

Average Daylight Hours in Port Elizabeth for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Port Elizabeth throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 6m13h 17m12h 14m11h 12m10h 20m9h 54m10h 8m10h 53m11h 53m12h 56m13h 52m14h 21m
Data source: Port Elizabeth daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Port Elizabeth

In January, Port Elizabeth experiences a refreshing average wind speed of 5.7 m/s (13 mph), setting the stage for a breezy summer ambiance perfect for outdoor activities. Interestingly, this month marks the peak of wind intensity in the early part of the year, as the winds remain consistent through February and March at 5.3 m/s. A notable decline occurs in April and June, with speeds dipping to their lowest at 4.5 m/s (10 mph), ushering in a calmer period. However, as winter takes hold in July, the winds surge again, reaching 5.8 m/s, before stabilizing through the latter half of the year. This fluctuation paints a vivid picture of the region's dynamic climate, where breezy days in January keep the coastal energy alive while providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Average January Wind Speed in Port Elizabeth

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Port Elizabeth, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.7 m/s5.35.34.55.34.55.85.25.66.15.65.4
Data source: Port Elizabeth January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Port Elizabeth Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, both months maintain similar average temperatures at 21°C (71°F), but February experiences slightly warmer conditions with a higher maximum temperature of 33°C (91°F) compared to January's 30°C (86°F). January has a minimum temperature of 16°C (60°F), while February is a bit cooler at 14°C (58°F). Notably, February sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) over 9 days, compared to January's 26 mm (1.0 in) across 7 days, resulting in a slightly higher humidity level of 81% in February versus 79% in January. For more details on how February weather unfolds, you can visit Port Elizabeth weather in February.

In January, the weather in Port Elizabeth is characterized by a pleasant average temperature of 21°C (71°F), with highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and lows around 16°C (60°F). The month receives a moderate precipitation of 26 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, March experiences slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 14°C (58°F) and can peak at 32°C (91°F), maintaining an average of 21°C (69°F). Additionally, March sees increased rainfall, totaling 42 mm (1.6 in) over the same number of days, along with a slight rise in humidity to 83%. For more detailed information, you can check the Port Elizabeth weather in March.

In January, the weather typically features a minimum temperature of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), with a maximum reaching 30°C (86°F). There is an average of 26 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over about 7 days, and the humidity hovers around 79%. In contrast, April sees slightly cooler conditions, with a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), while still allowing for a warm maximum of 32°C (89°F). The month experiences a bit more rainfall at 28 mm (1.1 in) over approximately 5 days, with humidity slightly elevated at 80%. For more specific details on the climate, you can check Port Elizabeth weather in April.

In comparing the weather of January and May, January offers warmer temperatures with a minimum of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), reaching a maximum of 30°C (86°F). Conversely, May features slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to an average of 17°C (64°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). While January experiences 26 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over 7 days, May sees a marginally higher precipitation of 30 mm (1.2 in) over 6 days. Humidity levels are relatively close, at 79% in January and 76% in May, creating a generally humid atmosphere in both months. For more detailed information about May weather, you can check the following link: Port Elizabeth weather in May.

In January, the weather is noticeably warmer with average temperatures ranging from a mild 21°C (71°F) to a high of 30°C (86°F), while June sees cooler conditions, with averages dropping to around 17°C (62°F) and a minimum of 9°C (48°F). January experiences higher humidity at 79% and more frequent rain, with 26 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over 7 days. In contrast, June has less precipitation, only 20 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, and a lower humidity level of 72%. For more information on June's climate, you can visit Port Elizabeth weather in June.

In January, the weather in Port Elizabeth tends to be warmer and more humid, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 26 mm (1.0 in) over about 7 days, resulting in a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, July presents cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). July sees slightly higher precipitation at 33 mm (1.3 in) over 5 days but with lower humidity at 74%. For more details, you can check the Port Elizabeth weather in July.

In January, the weather is characterized by warm temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (60°F), an average of 21°C (71°F), and a maximum reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Although it is humid at 79%, the total precipitation is relatively low at 26 mm (1.0 in) over an average of 7 days. In contrast, August experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). This month sees increased precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.0 in) across 9 days, and slightly lower humidity at 72%. For more details, you can explore Port Elizabeth weather in August.

In January, the weather is notably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), and an average temperature of 21°C (71°F). Despite experiencing some rainfall, with about 26 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 79%.

In contrast, September brings cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and peaking at 34°C (93°F), leading to an average of 16°C (62°F). Additionally, September sees increased precipitation, totaling 39 mm (1.6 in) over the same number of rainy days, while humidity slightly decreases to 75%. For more details, check Port Elizabeth weather in September.

In January, the weather is warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 21°C (71°F). The month experiences slightly less precipitation, totaling 26 mm (1.0 in) across 7 days, and has a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, October offers cooler temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while still reaching up to 29°C (85°F) on warmer days. October sees a bit more rainfall, with 36 mm (1.4 in) spread over 8 days, and a slightly lower humidity at 76%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Port Elizabeth weather in October.

January and November present contrasting weather patterns in Port Elizabeth. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (71°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 26 mm (1.0 in) across 7 days and humidity levels around 79%. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), leading to an average of 18°C (65°F). This month also has higher rainfall, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) over 8 days, albeit with slightly lower humidity at 76%. For more details on November's weather, visit Port Elizabeth weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to have slightly warmer overall conditions. The minimum temperature in January is 16°C (60°F), compared to December's 13°C (56°F), while the average temperature in January is 21°C (71°F) versus 20°C (68°F) in December. However, December features a higher maximum temperature of 32°C (89°F), slightly exceeding January's 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is more prevalent in December, with 45 mm (1.8 in) over 8 days, compared to January's 26 mm (1.0 in) across 7 days, and humidity levels remain quite similar at 79% in January and 78% in December. For a deeper look into December's weather, you can visit Port Elizabeth weather in December.

Compare Port Elizabeth's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Port Elizabeth

As January unfolds in Port Elizabeth, the weather takes on a distinctly warm and inviting character, setting it apart from the cooler months. With a comfortable average temperature hovering around 21°C (71°F), the days are typically marked by maxima reaching up to 30°C (86°F), perfect for beach outings and outdoor adventures. The air carries a notable humidity of 79%, lending a tropical feel to the atmosphere, while occasional rainfall contributes to the region’s lush greenery. This month stands out with a blend of sunny days and refreshing showers, making it an ideal time for visitors to explore the city's vibrant coastal life. For further insights into what the weather has in store, check out Port Elizabeth Climate.