Last updated: August 31, 2025
Experience the vibrant December weather in Richards Bay, South Africa, where temperatures soar to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and hover around a pleasant average of 24°C (76°F). The coastal charm is accompanied by a refreshing minimum of 17°C (64°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for 98 mm (3.9 in) of rain spread over 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 86% that enhances the lush, tropical landscape. Embrace the warmth and occasional showers that define this dynamic summer month!
In Richards Bay, South Africa, December ushers in warm summer temperatures, with nighttime lows averaging a pleasant 17°C (64°F). As days progress, the weather heats up, peaking at an impressive 36°C (97°F). The average temperature settles around 24°C (76°F), ensuring ideal conditions for beach outings and outdoor activities. Compared to previous months, December marks a noticeable transition into summer, featuring notably higher maximum temperatures than November's 35°C (94°F). This trend of rising warmth continues from the milder temperatures of earlier months, providing a vibrant and sun-drenched backdrop for holiday festivities and nature explorations alike.
In Richards Bay, South Africa, December marks a transition as the region prepares for the peak of its rainy season. With 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation, it's a month characterized by consistent rainfall, observed over 13 days. This slight dip from the 124 mm (4.9 in) recorded in November suggests a brief easing before the summer rains intensify. Interestingly, December maintains a steady rhythm similar to earlier months, especially when compared to October's 94 mm (3.7 in) and November’s higher totals. This pattern reflects a gradual increase in precipitation that begins in spring and peaks towards late summer, making December a vital month for the ecosystem, providing much-needed moisture and supporting vibrant growth after the drier winter months.
In Richards Bay, South Africa, the month of December experiences a satisfying humidity level of 86%, aligning closely with the elevated moisture levels seen throughout the late year. The humidity begins its ascent in November at 87%, peaking just before December, and maintains this considerable dampness into the new month. Interestingly, a pattern emerges, with the summer months consistently exhibiting high humidity, generally hovering between 85% and 87% from January to November. As the year winds down, December's humidity not only reflects the trends of its preceding months but also sets the stage for a lush, vibrant environment as it transitions into the new year.
In December, Richards Bay experiences a noteworthy UV Index of 14, falling into the extreme exposure category with a swift burn time of just 10 minutes. This marks a return to the peak conditions seen in January and February, making it essential for residents and visitors to prioritize sun protection. The trend of elevated UV levels extends throughout the spring and summer months, with only a few dips into lower ranges during the cooler autumn and winter periods. The consistent threat of high UV radiation underscores the necessity of vigilance in skin protection as the year wraps up. For more detailed insights, check out the Richards Bay UV Index.
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December shines brightly in Richards Bay, South Africa, with 357 hours of glorious sunshine, marking the month as the sunniest of the year. Following a steady upward trend from January's 299 hours, the sunlight reaches its peak just before the year concludes. This consistent increase illustrates the transition to summer, as each month builds on the last, culminating in vibrant, sun-kissed days in December. Notably, the contrast with June’s 289 hours highlights the dramatic shift in weather, creating a harmonious progression that beckons both residents and visitors to bask in the warmth of the festive season. As the year ends, Richards Bay embraces its radiant sunshine, making December a truly enchanting time to celebrate under the brilliant African sky.
As December arrives in Richards Bay, South Africa, the likelihood of sunny weather dips to 27%, signaling a notable decrease compared to the preceding months. This trend reflects a seasonal shift, as the sunniest months are typically from June to July, where chances soar to 75% and 83%, respectively. Following this peak, the chances gradually decline into the latter part of the year. Interestingly, while the festive December season does promise some sunshine, residents and visitors may need to prepare for potential overcast skies as they embrace the warmer summer days ahead. The gradual transition from the sun-soaked days of mid-year to the more variable weather patterns of late spring creates a dynamic backdrop for those enjoying the coastal charm of Richards Bay.
In Richards Bay, South Africa, December brings a delightful return to longer days, with 13 hours of daylight that echoes the brightness of both January and February. Following the gradual decrease in daylight from March's 12 hours through the winter months, where sunlight dips to 10 hours in June, July, and August, December signals a shift back toward the sun with an increase in brightness. As the days grow longer again towards the year's end, the changing patterns of daylight highlight a rhythmic cycle, offering residents and visitors ample opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region during its sun-soaked summer.
As December arrives in Richards Bay, the average wind speed settles at 5.0 m/s (11 mph), echoing a pattern of steady breezes throughout the year. Following a gradual increase from the calm of early summer months, wind speeds reach their peak in September at 5.6 m/s (13 mph), before tapering off slightly in December. This month serves as a bridge, hinting at the milder winds that follow in January, which also registers at 5.0 m/s. Notably, the transition from autumn to summer showcases a subtle uplift in wind activity, with August and September bringing the strongest gusts of the year. Overall, the December winds reflect a balanced climate, perfect for enjoying the coastal charm of this vibrant South African town.
Weather in Richards Bay varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Richards Bay, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures in Richards Bay range from a minimum of 17°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 13 days and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, January sees slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F), peaking at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation increases to 115 mm (4.5 in) over 12 rainy days, while humidity remains relatively similar at 85%. For more details on January weather specifically, check out Richards Bay weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, December experiences a warm range with temperatures peaking at around 36°C (97°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). However, it also sees notable precipitation, with 98 mm (3.9 in) falling over 13 days. In contrast, February tends to be slightly warmer, with minimum temperatures at 20°C (68°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F), while the maximum can reach up to 37°C (99°F). This month is also wetter, featuring 161 mm (6.3 in) of rainfall across 17 days, yet maintains the same high humidity level of 86%. For more details, you can check Richards Bay weather in February.
In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of 17°C (64°F) and peaks at 36°C (97°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). This month also sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 13 days, while humidity remains high at 86%.
In contrast, March experiences slightly warmer conditions with a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). The precipitation increases to 115 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days, yet humidity remains consistent at 86%.
For more details, you can check Richards Bay weather in March.
Comparing the weather in December and April reveals some notable differences, despite both months experiencing high humidity levels of 86%. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). This month also sees higher precipitation, with 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days. In contrast, April has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). Additionally, April receives less rainfall at 70 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days. For a detailed look at the weather specifics in April, you can check Richards Bay weather in April.
In December, the weather in Richards Bay is notably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), and an average of 24°C (76°F). This month experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) across 13 days, while humidity remains high at 86%. In contrast, May offers cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). Although May sees slightly more rainfall at 103 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days, humidity remains consistent at 86%. For more detailed insights on May weather, you can check out Richards Bay weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, it's clear that December is significantly warmer and wetter. December features a minimum temperature of 17°C (64°F) and an average temperature reaching up to 24°C (76°F), with maximum daily highs soaring to 36°C (97°F). In contrast, June experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F), peaking at 30°C (85°F). Additionally, December sees higher precipitation levels at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, while June only receives about 37 mm (1.4 in) across 6 days. Humidity levels are also high in both months, with December at 86% and June at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check Richards Bay weather in June.
December and July present two distinct weather profiles. December boasts warmer temperatures, with minimums around 17°C (64°F) and averaging 24°C (76°F), peaking at 36°C (97°F). In contrast, July experiences cooler conditions, ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to an average of 19°C (66°F), with a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Additionally, December is notably wetter, receiving 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 13 days, compared to July’s 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 5 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in December at 86% compared to July's 80%. For further details on the July weather in Richards Bay, you can visit Richards Bay weather in July.
When comparing December and August weather, December tends to be significantly warmer and more humid. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (64°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F), while August experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). December also sees higher precipitation at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, compared to August's 49 mm (1.9 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 86%, while August's humidity is a more comfortable 79%. For more details, you can check out Richards Bay weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, December tends to be warmer with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F), compared to September's average of 21°C (69°F). Both months experience maximum temperatures peaking at 36°C (97°F), but December has a higher minimum temperature of 17°C (64°F) versus September's 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with 98 mm (3.9 in) falling over 13 days, while September sees less rainfall at 59 mm (2.3 in) across 9 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, hovering around 86% in December and 85% in September. For a more detailed look at September weather, visit Richards Bay weather in September.
In December, the weather experiences a noticeable increase in temperature compared to October, where the minimum temperature rises from 13°C (56°F) to 17°C (64°F), and the average temperature shifts from 21°C (70°F) to 24°C (76°F). While both months can reach a maximum of 36°C (97°F), December sees slightly higher precipitation levels, with 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, compared to October's 94 mm (3.7 in) across the same number of days. Notably, humidity remains constant at 86% for both months, making December feel warmer and more tropical. For more specific details about October weather, you can check Richards Bay weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December typically experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F), compared to November's minimum of 15°C (59°F) and average of 22°C (73°F). The maximum temperature in December can reach up to 36°C (97°F), just edging out November's maximum of 35°C (94°F). However, December also sees more precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, while November has a higher rainfall amount at 124 mm (4.9 in), also over 13 days. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with December averaging 86% compared to November's average of 87%. For more information, you can visit Richards Bay weather in November.
December in Richards Bay ushers in a warm and humid summer vibe, with temperatures peaking significantly compared to other months, creating an inviting atmosphere for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a blend of average highs around 24°C and an impressive maximum of 36°C, this month stands out for its vibrant warmth. However, it also brings about a notable increase in precipitation, with approximately 13 days of rain, contributing to the lush, green landscapes characteristic of the region. Despite the wet conditions, the balmy 86% humidity adds to the tropical feel, making December a unique blend of warmth and occasional relief from the rain. For more insights on what to expect throughout the year, explore Richards Bay Climate.