January Weather in Ladysmith, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In January, Ladysmith, South Africa experiences a warm and humid climate characterized by maximum temperatures soaring up to 39°C (103°F), while the average settles around a comfortable 22°C (72°F). The nights bring a refreshing relief with minimum temperatures dipping to 12°C (54°F). This month also witnesses significant moisture, with 131 mm (5.1 in) of rain spread across approximately 14 days, resulting in an average humidity level of 85%. Such conditions create a vibrant, lush environment, making January a dynamic month in Ladysmith’s weather calendar.

January Temperature in Ladysmith

In Ladysmith, South Africa, January showcases a vibrant range of temperatures, starting with a refreshing minimum of 12°C (54°F) and peaking at a sizzling 39°C (103°F). This month boasts an enjoyable average of 22°C (72°F), setting the tone for the peak of summer in the region. As the month progresses, the warmth begins to taper into February, where temperatures slightly cool down but still stay warm, with maximums dipping to 36°C (97°F). Interestingly, despite the general decline, the average temperature remains steady at 22°C (72°F) throughout both months. This trend of warm days holds until late autumn, where temperatures gradually lower to a minimum of 0°C (32°F) in May. Overall, January embodies the essence of summer, while subtly hinting at the transition toward cooler, more moderate conditions in the months to follow.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Ladysmith, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Ladysmith, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec727169645954545964666971
Data source: Temperature data for Ladysmith 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 Ladysmith

January in Ladysmith, South Africa, is marked by substantial rainfall, accumulating 131 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 14 days of precipitation. This sets the stage for a month that transitions into an even wetter February, where rainfall peaks at 180 mm (7.1 in) across 18 days, highlighting the region’s tendency to experience its heaviest rains during the summer months. Following January, precipitation gradually declines, with March seeing a drop to 107 mm (4.2 in). As the year progresses into cooler months, notably from May to July, rainfall becomes significantly sparse, with July recording a mere 4 mm (0.2 in), illustrating a stark contrast to the earlier months. Overall, January's rainfall not only contributes to the burgeoning summer landscape but also serves as a precursor to the wetter February, showcasing a clear seasonal pattern in the region's climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Ladysmith

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Ladysmith, 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 Ladysmith, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec131180107803274274174111207
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Ladysmith

In January, Ladysmith, South Africa, experiences high humidity levels at an impressive 85%, setting the tone for the month. This trend of elevated humidity continues into February, maintaining the same level, before gradually rising to 86% in March. As the seasons shift, April and May see even higher humidity, peaking at 88% in May. Following this peak, humidity begins to decline, dropping to 83% in June and further to 74% in July, marking the driest period of the year. August sees a slight improvement at 66%, before humidity levels begin to rise again in September and October, stabilizing around the 80% mark. November and December both revert back to higher humidity levels of 86%, showcasing a notable cycle of humidity throughout the year in Ladysmith, with the hottest months consistently exhibiting the highest moisture content in the air.

January Average Humidity in Ladysmith

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Ladysmith, 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 Ladysmith is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%85%86%87%88%83%74%66%75%80%86%86%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Ladysmith

In Ladysmith, South Africa, January boasts an extreme UV Index of 15, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This intensity continues into February, maintaining the same UV level, underscoring the need for vigilant sun protection during the peak summer months. As the season shifts into March, the UV Index slightly dips to 13, but still falls within the extreme category, indicating consistent sun exposure risk. Notably, even as months progress, high UV levels remain prevalent, peaking again in December with a striking 16. While April offers a slight reprieve at 10 (very high), subsequent months like May and June see a gradual decline, with the UV Index dropping to 7 and 5, respectively. However, high levels make a comeback in July and August, as outdoor enthusiasts must be mindful of their sun safety year-round. With such pronounced UV trends throughout the year, it’s crucial to stay informed and protected. For detailed information on UV levels, please visit Ladysmith UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Ladysmith for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Ladysmith 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 Ladysmith typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15151310756811121416
Data source: Ladysmith 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 Ladysmith

In Ladysmith, South Africa, January marks the beginning of the year with an impressive 304 hours of sunshine, setting a vibrant tone for the months ahead. As the seasons transition, February sees an increase to 322 hours, hinting at wonderfully balmy days. By March, the sunshine peaks at 349 hours, inviting locals and visitors alike to bask in its golden rays. The trend slightly dips in April and May with 314 hours, yet the warmth remains welcoming. As winter approaches in June, the hours drop to 294, a gentle reminder of the changing climate. However, the sunshine returns with vigor in July, matching April and May at 314 hours. Continuing this pattern, August and September bring 324 and 330 hours, respectively, suggesting a gradual return to summer brightness. The momentum builds as October shines with 360 hours, leading to a radiant November at 364 hours and culminating in December, where the sunshine reaches its annual high of 377 hours. This enchanting journey through the month reflects a rich play of light, making Ladysmith a sought-after winter escape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Ladysmith: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Ladysmith 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec304h322h349h314h314h294h314h324h330h360h364h377h
Data source: Ladysmith January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Ladysmith During January

In Ladysmith, South Africa, January marks the beginning of the year with a 23% chance of sunny weather. While this figure may seem low compared to the brighter months ahead, such as February at 28%, it sets the stage for a steady increase in sunshine. As the seasons progress, the likelihood of sunny days rises significantly, peaking in the heart of winter with an impressive 91% in July. This trend showcases Ladysmith’s transition from a moderate summer to a sun-drenched winter, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to bask in the warmth as the year unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Ladysmith

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Ladysmith 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 Ladysmith experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec23%28%61%71%74%82%91%70%59%44%43%27%
Data source: Ladysmith January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Ladysmith in January

In Ladysmith, South Africa, January heralds the year with 13 hours of daylight, matching the following month, February. As the seasons transition into autumn, daylight gradually wanes, dropping to 12 hours in March and further to 11 hours in April. May marks the onset of winter with a consistent 10 hours of daylight, a trend that persists through June and July. As spring approaches in August, daylight begins to extend again to 11 hours, continuing this upward trajectory into September. By October, the days lengthen to 12 hours, leading back to the vibrant 13 hours in both November and December. Thus, Ladysmith experiences a rhythmic cycle of daylight that mirrors the seasons, offering a lush variety of light throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Ladysmith for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Ladysmith throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 42m13h 3m12h 13m11h 22m10h 40m10h 20m10h 30m11h 7m11h 55m12h 46m13h 31m13h 54m
Data source: Ladysmith daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Ladysmith

In January, Ladysmith experiences a gentle average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), setting a serene tone for the month. This light breeze begins a promising trend of mild winds throughout the season, with speeds slightly decreasing to 1.9 m/s (4 mph) in February before returning to a comfortable 2.0 m/s (5 mph) in March. As the year progresses, the winds pick up momentum in the cooler months, peaking at 2.9 m/s (6 mph) by July and sustaining this invigorating pace into August. Although there are minor fluctuations, the wind generally maintains a lively spirit, reaching its climax in November at 2.9 m/s (7 mph), before tapering down to 2.6 m/s (6 mph) in December. This trend illustrates how January's gentle winds gradually build into a more robust breeze, inviting both local residents and visitors to embrace the fresh, invigorating air that defines Ladysmith's climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Ladysmith

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Ladysmith, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.2 m/s1.92.01.82.12.32.92.92.52.82.92.6
Data source: Ladysmith January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Ladysmith Compares to Other Months

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

January and February share similar temperature patterns, with both months experiencing a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). However, February tends to be milder at its maximum temperature, reaching 36°C (97°F) compared to January's peak of 39°C (103°F). Notably, February also sees increased rainfall, with precipitation levels rising to 180 mm (7.1 in) over 18 days, while January records 131 mm (5.1 in) across 14 rainy days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 85%, contributing to a warm and moist climate. For more details, you can check out Ladysmith weather in February.

In comparing the weather conditions of January and March, both months feature relatively warm temperatures, but with some notable differences. January experiences a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum reaching 39°C (103°F), while March is slightly cooler with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is also a key aspect, with January receiving 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days compared to March's 107 mm (4.2 in) across 13 days. Humidity remains high in both months, peaking at 85% in January and slightly increasing to 86% in March. For a deeper look into March's weather specifics, you can explore Ladysmith weather in March.

January and April exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. January tends to be hotter with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 39°C (103°F), while April feels cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Additionally, January experiences higher precipitation levels at 131 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 14 days compared to April's 80 mm (3.1 in) across 10 days, albeit with slightly higher humidity in April at 87% versus January's 85%. For more specific information, you can check the detailed forecast here: Ladysmith weather in April.

January and May present quite a contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range significantly, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and soaring to a maximum of 39°C (103°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 85% and substantial rainfall of 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days. In contrast, May features much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), paired with significantly lower precipitation of 32 mm (1.3 in) across just 5 days and a slightly higher humidity at 88%. This makes May a drier and cooler month compared to the hot and wetter January. For more details, check out Ladysmith weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by significantly warmer temperatures, with daily averages peaking at 39°C (103°F), while June brings much cooler conditions, with average highs around 28°C (82°F). January also experiences much higher humidity at 85% and more precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) over about 14 days, compared to June, which sees only 7 mm (0.3 in) of rainfall across just 2 days. The stark contrast between the two months highlights the seasonal shifts, making January feel sweltering while June offers a refreshing chill. For a detailed look at June weather patterns, visit Ladysmith weather in June.

The weather in January and July presents a stark contrast, with January experiencing much warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, making the month feel quite humid at 85%. In contrast, July's weather is markedly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -3°C (27°F) to a milder maximum of 29°C (85°F). July sees minimal precipitation, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) occurring over the entire month and no rainy days, resulting in a lower humidity level of 74%. For more detailed insights into July's weather, check Ladysmith weather in July.

In comparing the weather between January and August, January experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum soaring to 39°C (103°F), while August sees a cooler range, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 0°C (31°F) and peaking at 31°C (88°F). Additionally, January is characterized by higher humidity at 85% and substantial precipitation of 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, whereas August features significantly less rainfall at just 26 mm (1.0 in) across 6 days and lower humidity at 66%. For more detailed information, you can check out Ladysmith weather in August.

In January, the weather is noticeably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 39°C (103°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 85%. This month also sees significant rainfall, with 131 mm (5.1 in) falling over 14 days. In contrast, September experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at 36°C (98°F). The amount of precipitation drops sharply to 41 mm (1.6 in) over just 6 days, and humidity is more moderate at 75%. For more detailed insights, you can check Ladysmith weather in September.

January and October present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). This month also sees higher precipitation levels, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 14 days and averaging high humidity at 85%. In contrast, October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is notably lower at 74 mm (2.9 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 80%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Ladysmith weather in October.

The weather in January and November showcases notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 39°C (103°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F) and significant rainfall of 131 mm (5.1 in) spread over 14 days. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 37°C (99°F), resulting in an average temperature of 20°C (69°F) and slightly less precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 17 days. Both months have high humidity levels, with January at 85% and November at 86%, yet the overall climate feels more temperate in November. For more details, you can refer to Ladysmith weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, both months experience similar temperature ranges, with January having a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 39°C (103°F), while December shows slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum of 39°C (102°F). The average temperature in both months remains consistent at around 22°C (72°F). However, January is notably drier, receiving 131 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 14 days, compared to December's 207 mm (8.2 in) across 21 days, making December the wetter month. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in December at 86%, compared to January's 85%. For more detailed insights into December weather, you can visit Ladysmith weather in December.

Compare Ladysmith's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Ladysmith

January in Ladysmith ushers in the peak of summer with its intense heat and high humidity, often reaching maximum temperatures that can soar to 39°C (103°F). This month stands out from others not only for its warm average temperatures but also for a noticeable uptick in precipitation, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. With approximately 14 rainy days and humidity levels around 85%, the atmosphere feels quite different compared to the drier months preceding it. For a deeper understanding of how this vibrant weather shapes life in Ladysmith, explore more at Ladysmith Climate.