January Weather in Pretoria, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In January, Pretoria, South Africa, experiences a vibrant summer with temperatures soaring to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). The month is characterized by a tropical touch, marked by high humidity levels of 70% that contribute to a lively, yet somewhat muggy atmosphere. Rainfall is common, with 11 days of precipitation accumulating to about 108 mm (4.3 in), bringing refreshing bursts to the warm days. This blend of heat and humidity creates an enticing environment for both locals and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the season.

January Temperature in Pretoria

In January, Pretoria, South Africa, basks in a warm embrace, with temperatures ranging from a pleasant 11°C (52°F) at night to a sizzling 36°C (97°F) during the day, averaging 22°C (72°F). This month marks the height of summer in the region, where the days are long and sun-soaked, paving the way for outdoor adventures and vibrant city life. As the months progress into February and beyond, the temperatures gradually begin to cool, but January remains a standout for its peak heat. Notably, the average temperature stabilizes around 22°C (72°F) throughout the warmer months, hinting at a climatic consistency that characterizes Pretoria’s summer. As February approaches, there’s just a slight increase in nighttime lows, while March and April showcase milder days, indicating a smooth transition as the summer heat gradually eases into cooler autumn vibes.

January Weather in Pretoria: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Pretoria, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Pretoria, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec727170645954546067697172
Data source: Temperature data for Pretoria 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 Pretoria

January in Pretoria, South Africa, brings a noteworthy amount of rainfall, with 108 mm (4.3 in) typically drenching the region over 11 days. This marks the beginning of the wet season, setting the stage for February's even wetter climate, where precipitation peaks at 123 mm (4.8 in). As the months progress, rainfall begins to taper off dramatically, hitting a low in the dry winter months of June and July, where precipitation almost vanishes entirely. Interestingly, December sees a resurgence in rainfall, with 150 mm (5.9 in), reflecting a seasonal pattern that illustrates the striking contrasts between Pretoria's lush summer months and the stark dryness of winter. Overall, January's rainfall signals the onset of a vibrant, verdant period, inviting the rejuvenation of the landscape after the arid winter months.

January Precipitation Trends in Pretoria

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Pretoria, 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 Pretoria, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10812364481352275482150
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Pretoria

In January, Pretoria experiences a notable humidity level of 70%, setting the tone for a summer that embraces warmth and moisture. As the month progresses into February, the humidity slightly decreases to 65%, continuing a gradual decline leading into autumn. This trend persists through March and April, where levels hover around 64% and 63% respectively, indicating a consistent pattern of moderately high humidity. As winter approaches in June, the city sees a minor drop to 61%, revealing a trend of lower humidity that remains steady through August. However, as spring returns in September, a subtle rise to 65% begins, culminating in an increase to 72% by December. Overall, January's humidity kicks off a cycle that fluctuates yet reflects Pretoria's climatic rhythm.

January Average Humidity in Pretoria

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Pretoria, 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 Pretoria is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec70%65%64%64%65%61%64%61%65%61%68%72%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Pretoria

In January, Pretoria experiences one of its highest UV Index readings at 16, placing it in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of extreme UV exposure continues into February with a UV Index of 15, and similarly in March at 13. As the seasons transition, the UV Index begins to gradually decline in April to 10, shifting to a very high category, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. The trend stabilizes into lower levels through the winter months, with May and June recording a UV Index of 7 and 6 respectively, categorized as high, where individuals can enjoy 25 minutes of sun without burning. Yet, as spring approaches in August, the index leaps back to 9, representing a return to very high exposure. The extreme conditions make a comeback in the late year months of September and October with values of 11 and 13 respectively, reaffirming the need for sun protection, especially given the persistent 10-minute burn time throughout. As we conclude the yearly cycle, December returns to 16, showcasing Pretoria's intense summer sun. For more detailed information, check out the Pretoria UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Pretoria for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Pretoria 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 Pretoria typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16151310766911131416
Data source: Pretoria 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 Pretoria

January in Pretoria, South Africa, sparkles with 312 hours of sunshine, setting a vibrant tone for the year ahead. As the days warm up, February sees a slight increase to 321 hours, transitioning smoothly into March, which boasts the sunniest month with an impressive 354 hours. The sun continues to shine brightly through April and May, with both months offering around 319 and 320 hours, respectively. However, by June, the daylight starts to wane slightly, dipping to 299 hours. Yet, as winter beckons, the sunshine returns with 314 hours in July, followed by a robust 330 hours in August. Spring's arrival in September ushers in a warming trend with 337 hours, leading to a stunning crescendo in October, where sunny days peak at 364 hours. November and December maintain this bright momentum, each delivering 374 hours of glorious sunshine, wrapping up the year with an irresistible glow. This annual dance of sunlight highlights Pretoria's diverse yet consistently warm climate, making it a destination for sun seekers year-round.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Pretoria: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Pretoria 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec312h321h354h319h320h299h314h330h337h364h374h374h
Data source: Pretoria January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Pretoria During January

In January, Pretoria, South Africa experiences a 30% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cooler months for sunshine compared to the rest of the year. Following this, February sees a slight uptick to 34%, hinting at a gradual transition into the sunnier months. As the year progresses, there's a clear upward trend, with March bursting forth with a remarkable 66% chance of bright skies, and by April, the probability climbs significantly to 80%. This sunny trend peaks in July, when the likelihood reaches an impressive 94%, showcasing Pretoria’s winter as a truly sun-drenched season. The months thereafter maintain a healthy ratio of sunshine, stabilizing around 82% in both August and September, before tapering off gradually towards the year's end. Overall, while January may start on a modest note of sunshine, the trajectory throughout the year promises a vibrant and luminous climate ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Pretoria

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Pretoria 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 Pretoria experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec30%34%66%80%83%85%94%82%82%61%58%41%
Data source: Pretoria January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Pretoria in January

In January, Pretoria, South Africa enjoys an abundance of 13 hours of daylight, marking the peak of summer. This generous daylight gradually decreases in February and March to 12 hours, reflecting the transition towards autumn. As April approaches, daylight further diminishes to 11 hours, ushering in the cooler months. By May, daylight reaches its lowest point at 10 hours, and this duration remains consistent through June and July, where the winter chill takes hold. However, as spring dawns in August, daylight begins to return, climbing back to 11 hours and continuing to increase through September and October, with 12 hours by month’s end. November and December complete the cycle, reinstating 13 hours of daylight, as summer returns, showcasing the dramatic yet predictable shifts in Pretoria's daylight throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Pretoria for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Pretoria throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 31m12h 56m12h 12m11h 27m10h 50m10h 32m10h 41m11h 13m11h 56m12h 41m13h 21m13h 42m
Data source: Pretoria daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Pretoria

In January, Pretoria enjoys a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting a pleasant tone for the month. As summer unfolds, this relatively calm wind swiftly transitions into February, where speeds dip slightly to 2.7 m/s (6 mph), suggesting a tranquil atmosphere. The winds remain mild throughout the next few months, peaking during the dry winter days of August at 3.6 m/s (8 mph), often invigorating the crisp air. Notably, as spring approaches, wind speeds gradually increase once again, culminating in the warm embrace of November with an average of 3.8 m/s (9 mph), breathing life into the early summer days. Overall, the wind patterns reflect a rhythmic dance, characterized by gentle breezes in the heart of summer, giving way to more stimulating gusts as seasons shift.

Average January Wind Speed in Pretoria

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Pretoria, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.2 m/s2.72.52.42.72.82.93.63.53.73.83.0
Data source: Pretoria January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Pretoria Compares to Other Months

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

In January, Pretoria experiences slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F), while February sees a mild increase in the minimum temperature to 13°C (55°F) and a decrease in the maximum to 34°C (94°F). Both months have the same average temperature of 22°C (72°F). When it comes to precipitation, January has 108 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, while February encounters a bit more rainfall at 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days. Interestingly, February's humidity is slightly lower at 65% compared to January's 70%. For more details on the weather in February, check out Pretoria weather in February.

In January, the weather in Pretoria features a warm range of temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum reaching 36°C (97°F), contributing to an average of 22°C (72°F). This month also sees significant rainfall of 108 mm (4.3 in) over approximately 11 days, combined with a humidity level of 70%.

In contrast, March experiences slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), yielding a similar average of 21°C (70°F). Additionally, precipitation in March decreases to 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 7 days, and humidity drops to 64%. For more specific details on March weather, you can visit Pretoria weather in March.

In January, the weather is characterized by higher temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum reaching up to 36°C (97°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation of 108 mm (4.3 in) across approximately 11 days, contributing to a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), making it noticeably milder. The month has less rainfall, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days, and lower humidity at 63%. For more detailed information on April's weather patterns, you can check this link: Pretoria weather in April.

In comparing the weather between January and May, it is evident that January is significantly warmer and wetter. January experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average temperature of 22°C (72°F). In contrast, May sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 28°C (84°F), averaging just 15°C (60°F). Additionally, January has a higher precipitation level of 108 mm (4.3 in) spread over 11 days, while May is much drier, receiving only 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain across just one day. Humidity levels also differ slightly, with January at 70% and May at 64%. For more detailed information on the specific conditions in May, you can check Pretoria weather in May.

In January, the weather is noticeably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), and an average of 22°C (72°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, with approximately 108 mm (4.3 inches) falling over about 11 days, and humidity levels at a relatively high 70%.

In contrast, June features much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging around 12°C (55°F). Additionally, June is characterized by minimal precipitation—only 5 mm (0.2 inches)—and dry conditions, as it typically has no rainy days. Humidity levels are also lower at 61%. For more details, you can check the weather specifics on Pretoria weather in June.

In January, the weather is typically warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a scorching maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). This month also sees considerable rainfall, averaging 108 mm (4.3 in) over approximately 11 days, along with a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, July experiences much cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and peaking at 26°C (79°F), with an average of just 12°C (54°F). July is notably dry, receiving only 2 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall over the entire month, and features lower humidity levels at 64%. For more detailed insights, check Pretoria weather in July.

January and August present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a scorching maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, recording 108 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, and a humidity level of 70%. In stark contrast, August offers much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). This month experiences minimal rainfall, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, along with lower humidity at 61%. For more details, check out Pretoria weather in August.

In January, the weather is considerably warmer, with minimum temperatures averaging 11°C (52°F) and reaching up to a scorching maximum of 36°C (97°F). The month sees significant rainfall, totaling 108 mm (4.3 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, September brings a noticeable drop in temperature, with minimums around 3°C (38°F) and average highs of 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is minimal, at just 7 mm (0.3 in), covering only 2 days, and humidity levels are slightly lower at 65%. For a more detailed look at September weather, visit Pretoria weather in September.

In January, the weather in Pretoria is characterized by warmer temperatures, with an average of 22°C (72°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F). The month sees higher precipitation levels, averaging 108 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, and a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, October exhibits slightly cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 21°C (69°F) and minimums dropping to 7°C (45°F). Precipitation in October is also lower, at 54 mm (2.1 in) over just 7 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 61%. For more detailed insights, check out Pretoria weather in October.

In January, the weather is characterized by higher temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum reaching 36°C (97°F), making it the warmer month compared to November. The average temperature remains similar in both months at around 22°C (72°F). January also experiences more precipitation, totaling 108 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, while November sees less rain at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in January at 70%, compared to 68% in November. For a closer look at the specific conditions, you can visit Pretoria weather in November.

In comparison to January, December in Pretoria tends to be slightly cooler, with a minimum temperature of 12°C (53°F) compared to January's 11°C (52°F). Both months have similar average temperatures of 22°C (72°F), but January experiences slightly higher maximum temperatures at 36°C (97°F) versus December's 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in December, with 150 mm (5.9 in) falling over 15 days, compared to January's 108 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are also somewhat elevated in December, registering at 72% versus January's 70%. This information highlights the weather contrasts between these two months, emphasizing December’s wetter conditions. For more details, you can check Pretoria weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Pretoria

In January, Pretoria experiences some of its hottest days of the year, with temperatures soaring to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), creating a stark contrast to the milder months that precede and follow it. The increased humidity at around 70% adds a sticky feel to the heat, making this month distinctly warmer and often more uncomfortable than others. However, frequent rainfall—totaling 108 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days—provides a refreshing break from the sweltering sun, bringing much-needed relief and lush greenery to the region. For a deeper dive into how January weather in Pretoria fits into the overall climate profile, explore Pretoria Climate.