February Weather in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

February in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, offers a warm and vibrant climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). Amidst the heat, the city experiences significant precipitation, amounting to 154 mm (6.1 in), spread across about 18 days. The high humidity level of 86% adds to the tropical atmosphere, making it an ideal time for those who enjoy lush landscapes brought on by the rain. Visitors can expect a dynamic blend of sunny spells and refreshing showers, perfect for exploring the region's natural beauty.

February Temperature in Pietermaritzburg

In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, February brings mild temperatures that continue the trend set by January, with minimums around 12°C (53°F) and a comfortable average of 21°C (71°F). As the summer heat gradually recedes, maximum temperatures hover around 35°C (95°F), providing warm, but less oppressive days compared to the peak of January. This consistency in the climate not only makes February a pleasant time to explore the vibrant city but also sets the stage for the cooler months ahead. With temperatures starting to decline slightly towards March, the transition ushers in an ideal environment for outdoor activities, celebrating both the tail end of summer and the burgeoning signs of autumn.

February Weather in Pietermaritzburg: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates February temperature patterns in Pietermaritzburg, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Pietermaritzburg, February 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec707069656156565862636668
Data source: Temperature data for Pietermaritzburg 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.

February Precipitation in Pietermaritzburg

February in Pietermaritzburg sees a notable increase in precipitation, with 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain recorded over 18 days—making it one of the wettest months of the year. This uptick follows a relatively rainy January, which contributed 113 mm (4.5 in) across 15 days. The transition into March then brings a significant drop, as rainfall decreases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over the same number of days. This trend highlights a peak in rainfall during the late summer months, with February typically serving as a critical time for agricultural replenishment, setting the stage for the drier autumn months ahead. The consistent pattern of rainy days underscores the importance of February as a key period for the region’s water resources.

February Precipitation Trends in Pietermaritzburg

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Pietermaritzburg, with values for each month alongside February’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how February’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Pietermaritzburg, February typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1131549165511213386086138160
Data source: Precipitation data for February generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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February Humidity in Pietermaritzburg

February in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, experiences a slight increase in humidity, reaching 86%, up from 85% in January. This marks the culmination of a summer trend where humidity levels remain high, maintaining a consistent feel of tropical warmth. As February transitions into March, the humidity stabilizes at 86%, suggesting a season characterized by lush greenery and vibrant ecosystems. Following this, the humidity remains unchanged through April and May, creating a humid environment that thrives before the cooler, drier months of winter set in. The overall pattern indicates a resilient humidity that peaks in the early months of the year and gradually cools as winter approaches, enhancing Pietermaritzburg's rich and diverse climate.

February Average Humidity in Pietermaritzburg

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Pietermaritzburg, with February’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In February, average humidity in Pietermaritzburg is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%86%86%86%86%80%80%80%85%86%87%86%
Data source: Humidity data for February generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

February UV Index in Pietermaritzburg

In February, Pietermaritzburg experiences a UV Index of 14, maintaining its position in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This slight decrease from January’s peak of 15 still signifies a potent risk, as the region continues to face intensified sun exposure. The trend shows that as summer progresses, the UV Index begins to taper off towards March, dropping to 12, yet consistently remains within the extreme range. Residents and visitors alike should take precautions during this period to protect their skin, especially given the high UV levels that persist throughout early autumn. For detailed UV data and safety guidelines, visit Pietermaritzburg UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Pietermaritzburg for February

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Pietermaritzburg in February, 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 February, the maximum UV index in Pietermaritzburg typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1514129645710111315
Data source: Pietermaritzburg February 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.

February Sunshine in Pietermaritzburg

February in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, shines brightly with 300 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful peak in the summer season. This month is quickly followed by March, where sunlight expands even further to 334 hours, showcasing a trend of increasing daylight as the year progresses. After a slight dip in April to 305 hours, sunshine levels remain relatively stable through May, hovering around the 300-hour mark. The pattern suggests a consistent warmth that characterizes the late summer and early autumn months, making February an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant scenery of this charming city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Pietermaritzburg: February Highlighted

The February sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Pietermaritzburg experiences direct sunlight during the month of February, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of February with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec284h300h334h305h301h285h300h308h310h326h324h343h
Data source: Pietermaritzburg February Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Pietermaritzburg During February

In February, Pietermaritzburg experiences a 21% chance of sunny weather, slightly lower than the 24% in January, signaling the end of the summer season's peak brightness. This gradual decline continues into March, where sunny days rebound dramatically to 45%, showing a marked transition towards more favorable weather as autumn approaches. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunny days steadily increases, peaking at an impressive 85% in July. This trend highlights a seasonal shift in Pietermaritzburg’s climate, demonstrating that while February may not boast the highest chances for sunshine, the subsequent months offer a brighter outlook for sun-seekers.

Percentage of Sunny Days in February in Pietermaritzburg

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Pietermaritzburg throughout the year, with February 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 Pietermaritzburg experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24%21%45%51%65%74%86%62%48%33%30%19%
Data source: Pietermaritzburg February chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Pietermaritzburg in February

In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, February offers a delightful continuation of the summer's generous sunlight, with approximately 13 hours of daylight that mirrors the previous month, January. This extended daylight allows residents and visitors to fully enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities and lush landscapes characteristic of the region during these warm months. As the calendar progresses into March, daylight begins to wane slightly, dropping to 12 hours. This gradual decline in daylight continues through the autumn months, reaching its lowest at 10 hours from June to July. However, as the year transitions back toward summer, daylight begins to pick up again, culminating in the return to 13 hours in November and December. This rhythm of daylight not only highlights Pietermaritzburg's seasonal shifts but also encourages a diverse range of experiences throughout the year, from sun-soaked summer days to the quieter, crisp light of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Pietermaritzburg for February

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Pietermaritzburg throughout the year, with February highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 47m13h 5m12h 13m11h 20m10h 36m10h 15m10h 26m11h 4m11h 55m12h 48m13h 35m13h 59m
Data source: Pietermaritzburg daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

February Winds in Pietermaritzburg

In February, Pietermaritzburg experiences a consistent average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), mirroring January's conditions. This stability sets the tone for the summer months, where gentle breezes provide a refreshing respite from the heat. As the seasons transition into March, winds slightly diminish to 2.1 m/s, suggesting a subtle calming as autumn approaches. Remarkably, despite the minor fluctuations, the wind speeds throughout the year predominantly hover around the tranquil 5 to 6 mph mark, creating an overall serene atmosphere. The peak occurs in the later months of August to November, where a slight uptick to 2.6 m/s (6 mph) invigorates the landscape, hinting at the refreshing whispers of change that come with the approaching spring.

Average February Wind Speed in Pietermaritzburg

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Pietermaritzburg, with values for each month shown alongside February's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how February's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.22.2 m/s2.12.02.02.42.22.62.52.62.62.4
Data source: Pietermaritzburg February wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How February Weather in Pietermaritzburg Compares to Other Months

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

When comparing the weather in February and January, we see some notable similarities and differences. Both months feature an average temperature around 21°C (70°F), but January tends to be slightly warmer at a maximum of 36°C (97°F), compared to February’s maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation levels increase in February, reaching 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, while January experiences 113 mm (4.5 in) across 15 days, indicating a wetter month overall in February. Humidity levels are quite similar, with February at 86% and January at 85%. For more detailed insights on January weather, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in January.

February and March present similar temperature ranges, with February experiencing slightly higher maximum temperatures of 35°C (95°F) compared to March's 34°C (93°F). Both months share an average temperature of around 21°C (71°F), and the minimum temperatures remain consistent, starting at 12°C (53°F). However, February is notably wetter, with 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over 18 days, while March sees a reduction in rainfall to 91 mm (3.6 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels remain constant at 86% throughout both months, making both February and March relatively humid. For a closer look at March's weather specifics, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in March.

February and April in Pietermaritzburg showcase significant differences in weather patterns. In February, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). The month is also quite wet, receiving 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over 18 days, while maintaining high humidity levels at 86%. Conversely, April sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at 36°C (97°F). Precipitation drops to 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains steady at 86%. For a closer look at what to expect during this month, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in April.

February and May present contrasting weather patterns. In February, temperatures soar with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and a maximum reaching up to 35°C (95°F), promoting a warm and humid environment characterized by an average of 21°C (71°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 86%. In comparison, May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is considerably lower at 51 mm (2.0 in) across just 6 days, while humidity remains constant at 86%. For more insights on May weather, visit Pietermaritzburg weather in May.

In comparing February and June weather, February boasts much warmer temperatures with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and maximum highs reaching 35°C (95°F), while June experiences cooler conditions, averaging between 1°C (34°F) and 29°C (84°F). Additionally, February is characterized by high humidity levels at 86% and substantial rainfall, with 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over 18 days, making it quite rainy. In contrast, June enjoys a drier climate, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) of rainfall over just 2 days, although the humidity remains relatively high at 80%. For more details on June weather, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in June.

February and July present distinct weather contrasts. In February, temperatures are significantly warmer, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average high reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while July features much cooler temperatures, with lows dipping to 0°C (33°F) and an average high of 29°C (85°F). February also experiences higher precipitation levels, averaging 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, compared to July’s modest 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days. Additionally, February is more humid, boasting an 86% humidity rate, while July maintains a slightly lower 80% humidity. For further insights on the weather, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in July.

February and August present markedly different weather conditions. In February, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over 18 days and high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, August is much cooler, with temperatures ranging from a low of 2°C (35°F) to a high of 31°C (88°F), boasting an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 38 mm (1.5 in) over just 9 days, and humidity decreases to 79%. For a deeper insight into August's weather conditions, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in August.

When comparing the weather in February and September, notable differences emerge. February boasts a milder average temperature of 21°C (71°F) with maximums reaching up to 35°C (95°F), making it considerably warmer overall. However, it also sees higher humidity at 86% and much more precipitation, totaling 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days. In contrast, September presents cooler conditions with a lower average temperature of 17°C (63°F), and while maximum temperatures can reach a high of 37°C (98°F), the mornings are significantly chillier, dropping to a minimum of 4°C (40°F). September experiences less precipitation, with just 60 mm (2.4 in) over 10 days, and maintains a slightly lower humidity of 85%. For more detailed insights, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in September.

February and October present notable contrasts in weather patterns. February boasts higher temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), reaching a maximum of 35°C (95°F). In contrast, October features cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to an average of 17°C (64°F), peaking at 38°C (100°F). Both months experience high humidity levels of 86%, but February sees substantially more rainfall, accumulating 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days compared to October's 86 mm (3.4 in) over 13 days. For more details, check out the Pietermaritzburg weather in October.

February and November exhibit distinct weather patterns, with February generally experiencing warmer temperatures. In February, the minimum temperature hovers around 12°C (53°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F) and a maximum reaching 35°C (95°F). In contrast, November sees cooler minimums at 5°C (41°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and a maximum that is similar at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are relatively high in both months, with February receiving about 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, while November has slightly less rain at 138 mm (5.4 in) across 17 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with February at 86% and November at 87%. For further details, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in November.

February and December in Pietermaritzburg exhibit relatively similar weather patterns, though there are some distinctions worth noting. February boasts slightly warmer average temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F), compared to December's minimum of 10°C (50°F) and maximum of 36°C (98°F). Precipitation levels are comparable as well, with February receiving 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, while December sees a bit more rainfall at 160 mm (6.3 in) over 22 days. Both months also share high humidity levels of 86%, contributing to a warm and often steamy atmosphere. For more detailed insights, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in December.

Compare Pietermaritzburg's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From February Weather in Pietermaritzburg

February in Pietermaritzburg presents a vibrant mix of warmth and humidity, setting it apart from the cooler months. With maximum temperatures soaring to a sweltering 35°C and an average of 21°C, this month feels distinctly more tropical, creating a lush backdrop for outdoor activities. The skies often bring rain, as evidenced by the 18 days of precipitation, accounting for about 154 mm throughout the month. This higher humidity level, reaching 86%, contributes to a more muggy atmosphere, enhancing the rich, verdant landscapes unique to this time of year. For a detailed look at how Pietermaritzburg's climate evolves across the seasons, visit Pietermaritzburg Climate.