Last updated: August 31, 2025
Experience the vibrant summer of January in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, where the weather brings a delightful mix of warmth and humidity. With maximum temperatures soaring to a sizzling 36°C (97°F), the average daily warmth rests comfortably around 21°C (70°F), while cooler nights dip to a refreshing 12°C (54°F). Despite the heat, prepare for frequent showers, as the month sees approximately 113 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall over 15 days, contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes the region. The air is often laden with 85% humidity, creating a tropical ambiance ideal for those who adore summer's embrace. Whether exploring the city's parks or enjoying its rich cultural heritage, January offers a captivating experience in this picturesque South African locale.
In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, January serves as a peak of summer warmth, boasting temperatures that range from a comfortable 12°C (54°F) at night to a sizzling 36°C (97°F) during the day. The average temperature of 21°C (70°F) provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. As the month progresses into February, temperatures remain fairly consistent, with slight decreases in the maximums, never falling below 12°C (53°F) at night. Moving into March, the temperatures start to taper downwards, indicating the transition to the cooler months ahead. April brings a notable dip in nighttime temperatures to 7°C (45°F), while the daytime maximum can still reach a steamy 36°C (97°F), hinting at the last vestiges of summer heat. This seasonal shift continues into May and June, where the nights grow particularly chilly, dropping to around 2°C (36°F) while daytime highs settle comfortably in the mid-30s. By mid-year, a more stable trend emerges—with average temperatures stepping down to 13°C (56°F) and 14°C (57°F) during July and August—marking the cooler winter months. However, warmth quickly returns as spring approaches in September and October, where maximum temperatures can soar above 37°C (98°F), reinstating the region's reputation for balmy, sultry summers. Overall, January stands out as the entry point of this cycle, enveloping Pietermaritzburg in the vibrant heat of the South African summer.
January in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, marks the onset of the rainy season, with precipitation totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 15 days. This month serves as a pivotal transition, leading up to the wetter months ahead, notably February and December, where rainfall sharply increases to 154 mm (6.1 in) and 160 mm (6.3 in), respectively. The consistent rainfall patterns underscore a broader trend of increased precipitation as summer approaches, creating a vibrant atmosphere as the landscape flourishes. In contrast, the dry winter months of June and July, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) and 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, bring a stark reduction in precipitation, highlighting the seasonal variations that define this region's climatic rhythm.
In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, January marks the start of a humid season, with humidity levels peaking at an average of 85%. This trend continues into subsequent months, as February and March maintain a steady 86%, creating an undeniably moist atmosphere. Interestingly, even as the year progresses, from April through October, humidity remains consistently high, oscillating between 86% and 80%, before a slight rise in November and December, culminating in 87%. Overall, this pattern showcases a humid climate with only minor fluctuations, particularly during the brisk winter months of June and July, when the average drops to 80%. The resilience of high humidity levels throughout much of the year creates a lush and vibrant environment in this charming city.
In January, Pietermaritzburg experiences an extreme UV Index of 15, indicating that sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage in just 10 minutes. Following this pattern, February remains intense with a UV Index of 14, while March begins to show a slight decrease at 12. However, the intensity remains classified as extreme until April, when it dips to a very high level of 9, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. As the autumn months transition into winter, the UV Index further decreases, with May and June bringing a more manageable high and moderate exposure respectively. This trend of decreasing UV levels continues through to August, before rising again in September and October, where it reaches extreme levels once more. December once again mirrors January, with a UV Index of 15, highlighting the necessity for vigilant sun safety throughout the year. For more detailed information, check out the Pietermaritzburg UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
January in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, shines with an impressive 284 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a vibrant summer. This month marks the beginning of a gradual increase in sunlight, culminating in an impressive 343 hours by December. Following January, February enjoys a slight uptick with 300 hours, while March reaches a sunny peak at 334 hours, showcasing the region's allure during the summer months. As autumn approaches, the sunshine remains plentiful, hovering around the 300-hour mark through May before tapering slightly in June. Interestingly, the trend of abundant sunshine resumes in July and continues through to October, reflecting the area's remarkable climate throughout the year. The stats reveal a consistent embrace of sunlight, making Pietermaritzburg a delightful destination for sunshine seekers all year long.
In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a modest 24%, just above February's 21% but significantly lower than the sunnier months that follow. As the year progresses, the chance of sunshine begins to climb steadily, peaking at 85% in July, offering a stark contrast to the gloomier early months. This trend highlights a gradual transition from the summer’s pedestrian sunshine to the winter months, where clear skies dominate. By the time April arrives, the likelihood of sunshine reaches 51%, signaling a robust increase that continues into late autumn. Thus, if you're seeking sun-soaked days, it's wise to plan your visit a little later in the year.
In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, the month of January ushers in the year with a generous 13 hours of daylight, mirroring the brightness of February. As summer transitions into autumn, the daylight gradually decreases, reaching 12 hours in March and further dwindling to 11 hours by April. This trend continues into the winter months, where May, June, and July all maintain the reduced 10-hour daylight mark, creating a serene atmosphere. However, as spring approaches in August, daylight begins to return, rising to 11 hours and gradually climbing back to 12 hours in October. The year closes on a bright note, with both November and December boasting 13 hours of daylight, bringing a vibrant close to the seasonal cycle. Overall, the daylight duration reflects a rhythmic ebb and flow that underscores the changing seasons in this beautiful region.
In January, Pietermaritzburg experiences a gentle average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), which remains consistent throughout February, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. As summer progresses into March, the winds slightly taper off to 2.1 m/s, while April and May see winds stabilize at 2.0 m/s—perfect for those seeking a tranquil environment. As the year transitions into winter, June marks a subtle uptick to 2.4 m/s, signaling a shift in seasonal dynamics. This trend continues into the latter half of the year, with August, September, October, and November consistently enjoying breezier conditions around 2.6 m/s (6 mph). By December, the winds gently retreat back to 2.4 m/s, rounding out the year with a serene ambiance that reflects the region’s mild climate. Overall, the oscillation in wind speeds throughout the year fosters a delightful balance, making Pietermaritzburg a picturesque destination.
Weather in Pietermaritzburg varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Pietermaritzburg, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In January, the weather features a comfortable temperature range with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum of 36°C (97°F). However, this month also sees considerable rainfall, with 113 mm (4.5 in) recorded over 15 days and humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler maximum temperatures, peaking at 35°C (95°F), while maintaining the same minimum and average temperatures. Rainfall increases to 154 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days with a marginally higher humidity of 86%. For a detailed look at February’s climate, check Pietermaritzburg weather in February.
In January, the weather in Pietermaritzburg features a range of temperatures with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a peak of 36°C (97°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, averaging 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 85%.
Conversely, March exhibits slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 21°C (69°F), and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). The precipitation decreases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over the same number of rainy days, resulting in a slightly higher humidity of 86%. For more detailed information on the weather patterns in March, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in March.
In January, the weather is typically warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging around 21°C (70°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, with 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 15 days and high humidity levels of 85%. In contrast, April sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), while still reaching a maximum of 36°C (97°F). Rainfall decreases to 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, and humidity remains high at 86%. For more details on the weather patterns in April, visit Pietermaritzburg weather in April.
In January, the weather typically features warm temperatures, with averages reaching up to 21°C (70°F) and maximums soaring to 36°C (97°F). This month also experiences considerable rainfall, recording about 113 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 15 days, alongside high humidity at 85%. In contrast, May sees a significant drop in temperature, with average highs of 16°C (61°F) and maximums capping at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation decreases to 51 mm (2.0 in), spread across just 6 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 86%. For more details on the weather specifics in May, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in May.
The weather in January and June presents a striking contrast in Pietermaritzburg. January is characterized by much warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F). This month also sees considerable rainfall, with 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation occurring over 15 days and high humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, June experiences cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), and an average temperature of just 13°C (56°F). Rainfall in June is significantly lower, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, accompanied by humidity levels of 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Pietermaritzburg weather in June.
In January, the weather is characterized by warm temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a high of 36°C (97°F), creating an average of 21°C (70°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with precipitation measuring 113 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 15 days and high humidity at 85%. In contrast, July brings much cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). Rainfall is minimal, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) falling over just 2 days, and humidity slightly lower at 80%. For more specific details, check out Pietermaritzburg weather in July.
In January, the weather is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 85% and considerable rainfall, with 113 mm (4.5 in) over about 15 days. In contrast, August brings much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). The precipitation in August is significantly lower, totaling just 38 mm (1.5 in) over 9 days, accompanied by slightly reduced humidity at 79%. For more details about the weather in August, you can refer to Pietermaritzburg weather in August.
In January, the weather is characterized by warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at a maximum of 36°C (97°F). The month also sees considerable rainfall, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over about 15 days, maintaining a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, September experiences cooler conditions, starting with a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while still reaching a high of 37°C (98°F). Rainfall is less frequent in September, at 60 mm (2.4 in) over 10 days, but humidity remains consistent at 85%. For a more detailed look at the September weather, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in September.
January and October exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. January typically experiences warmer temperatures, with minimums around 12°C (54°F) and maximums soaring to 36°C (97°F), while October sees cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 38°C (100°F). Additionally, January has higher average temperatures at 21°C (70°F) compared to October's average of 17°C (64°F). Rainfall is more frequent in January, accumulating 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days, whereas October has 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 13 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with January at 85% and October slightly higher at 86%. For more detailed insights, refer to Pietermaritzburg weather in October.
When comparing the weather in January and November, it's evident that January tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F). In contrast, November features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation is also notable in both months, with January receiving about 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days, while November experiences slightly more rainfall at 138 mm (5.4 in) across 17 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with January at 85% and November slightly higher at 87%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in November.
In comparing the weather of January and December, January typically sees slightly higher average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), while December's temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 36°C (98°F). Both months experience similar maximum temperatures, but January has a marginally higher average temperature of 21°C (70°F) compared to December's 20°C (68°F). However, December tends to be wetter, with a total precipitation of 160 mm (6.3 in) over 22 days, whereas January receives 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days, reflecting a drier spell. Humidity levels are relatively consistent, with January at 85% and December slightly higher at 86%. For more detailed information, you can visit Pietermaritzburg weather in December.
In January, Pietermaritzburg experiences some of its hottest temperatures of the year, with averages soaring to around 21°C. The warm climate can also bring high humidity, making the heat feel even more intense. Compared to other months, January is typically one of the wettest, with substantial rainfall spread over several days, adding a refreshing contrast to the heat. This combination of warmth and moisture not only contributes to a vibrant, lush environment but also sets the stage for a unique weather experience. For more detailed insights, check out Pietermaritzburg Climate.