January Weather in Polokwane, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In Polokwane, South Africa, the weather in January presents a dynamic climate experience, characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 34°C (94°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). The month sees a minimum dip to 11°C (53°F), offering a pleasant reprieve in the cooler mornings and evenings. Rainfall is a notable feature, with 107 mm (4.2 in) accumulated over 12 days, contributing to a humidity level of approximately 70% that enhances the tropical feel of the region. This combination of warmth and moisture fosters a vibrant atmosphere, making January a pivotal month in the summer season of Polokwane.

January Temperature in Polokwane

In January, Polokwane, South Africa experiences a vibrant summer warmth, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 11°C (53°F) at night to a scorching 34°C (94°F) during the day. This month typically showcases an average temperature of 21°C (71°F), setting the tone for sun-soaked days that are perfect for outdoor activities. As the season transitions into February, temperatures remain relatively stable, dipping slightly at night to 12°C (54°F) while daytime highs moderate to 32°C (90°F). Throughout the year, a trend of gradually cooling evenings emerges, with nighttime lows reaching as low as 1°C (34°F) by July. Despite this, daytime warmth persists until late spring, highlighting Polokwane's delightful capacity to offer both warm sunlit afternoons and cooler nights.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Polokwane, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Polokwane, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec717169656056556166687071
Data source: Temperature data for Polokwane 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 Polokwane

January in Polokwane, South Africa, is characterized by a significant precipitation total of 107 mm (4.2 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. With rainfall occurring over 12 days, this month sets the tone for a humid summer, contributing to the region's vibrant ecosystem. Interestingly, the precipitation levels peak again in February, reaching 134 mm (5.3 in), before a sharp decline as the seasons change. By March, rainfall dwindles to 38 mm (1.5 in), highlighting a clear trend of decreasing precipitation as the year progresses. January's weather patterns not only enhance the landscape but also indicate a promising start to the rainy season, which gradually tapers off as the months go by.

January Precipitation Trends in Polokwane

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Polokwane, 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 Polokwane, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10713438291222373887108
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Polokwane

In January, Polokwane experiences a humidity level of 70%, marking the peak of its wet summer season. As the months progress into February and March, humidity begins to decline, settling at 65% and 64%, respectively. This gradual decrease continues through April and May, maintaining a relatively stable range around 63% to 64%. As the winter months approach from June to August, humidity dips to its annual low of 61%, reflecting the region's dry conditions. The trend shifts again in the later months, with a rise back to 65% in September and a notable increase to 68% by November. The year concludes with December's high of 72%, highlighting a return to the humid summer climate. Overall, Polokwane's humidity paints a dynamic picture, with distinct seasonal fluctuations that offer a unique experience throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Polokwane

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Polokwane, 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 Polokwane 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 Polokwane

In January, Polokwane experiences an intense UV Index of 16, categorizing it as extreme, with a swift burn time of only 10 minutes—a trend that continues into February. As summer wanes into March, the UV Index slightly dips to 13, maintaining its extreme classification, but still calls for caution with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern of strong UV radiation persists through the year, notably peaking again in December. From July to August, there is a brief respite as the index drops to a very high level of 9 in August, offering a longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, as the year progresses into the spring months, the UV Index rebounds back to extreme levels, with November reaching an impressive 15. For those planning to bask in the sun, understanding these trends is essential, as Polokwane consistently showcases high UV levels that warrant protective measures. For more detailed insights, visit Polokwane UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Polokwane for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Polokwane 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 Polokwane typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16161311867911131516
Data source: Polokwane 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 Polokwane

In Polokwane, January welcomes the year with a generous 307 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for brighter days ahead. This trend continues into February with 309 hours, hinting at a pattern of steadily increasing daylight as the summer months approach. The sunshine peaks in the late spring and early summer, reaching a remarkable 374 hours in December. Notably, March and October each boast 354 hours, showcasing the city’s consistently radiant atmosphere. As the months progress, a gradual ascent in daylight hours unfolds, with November shining the brightest before giving way to a slight dip in June and July. The year concludes with a vibrant display of sunshine, ensuring Polokwane remains a bastion of warmth and light throughout its sun-soaked calendar.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Polokwane: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Polokwane 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec307h309h354h324h324h310h323h332h334h354h362h374h
Data source: Polokwane January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Polokwane During January

In Polokwane, South Africa, January ushers in a 30% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the less sunny months in the year. As the season progresses, this percentage markedly increases, peaking in the cooler months of July and August, where the likelihood of clear skies soars to 89% and 85%, respectively. The country's summer months experience a gradual decline in sunshine, with both November and December returning to lower probabilities of 39% and 29%. This trend highlights a dynamic weather pattern where sunny days become increasingly abundant through the year, culminating in a vivid and bright winter, despite the initial shy start in January.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Polokwane

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Polokwane 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 Polokwane experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec31%22%58%82%82%87%89%85%82%52%39%29%
Data source: Polokwane January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Polokwane in January

In Polokwane, South Africa, January greets residents with an inviting 13 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a vibrant summer atmosphere. As the month progresses into February and March, daylight remains steady at 12 hours, allowing for ample time to enjoy outdoor activities before the sun begins to wane. April marks the start of a gradual decline, with daylight diminishing to 11 hours, continuing through the cooler months of May, June, and July, where it stabilizes at 10 hours. As winter fades and spring approaches, daylight begins to reclaim its strength in August and September with 11 hours once again. By October, daylight returns to 12 hours, heralding the transition toward the summer months, which finish the year with 13 hours of sunlight in both November and December. This cyclical pattern not only showcases the rhythm of seasons but also enhances the natural beauty and experience of Polokwane's long summer days.

Average Daylight Hours in Polokwane for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Polokwane throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 24m12h 52m12h 11m11h 30m10h 56m10h 40m10h 48m11h 17m11h 57m12h 38m13h 15m13h 34m
Data source: Polokwane daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Polokwane

In January, Polokwane experiences its breeziest moments of the year with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), lending a refreshing touch to the summer heat. This invigorating wind carries into the following months, as February sees a notable decrease to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), with steady speeds of 2.3 m/s (5 mph) through March and April. As the months progress, gusts gently rise again, peaking in the late winter and early spring with 3.2 m/s (7 mph) in October and November. This rhythmic pattern suggests that while January kicks off the year with a lively breeze, Polokwane's wind remains relatively calm and consistent with only slight fluctuations, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities throughout the hotter months.

Average January Wind Speed in Polokwane

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Polokwane, 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/s2.42.32.32.22.32.63.23.13.23.22.7
Data source: Polokwane January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Polokwane Compares to Other Months

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

When comparing the weather in January and February, both months show a similar average temperature of 21°C (71°F), but January experiences slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 34°C (94°F) compared to February's 32°C (90°F). Additionally, January typically sees a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F), which rises to 12°C (54°F) in February. Precipitation levels also differ, with January receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, while February has a higher rainfall of 134 mm (5.3 in) across 13 days. Interestingly, February's humidity is slightly lower at 65%, compared to January’s 70%. For more details, you can check Polokwane weather in February.

In January, the weather in Polokwane tends to be warmer, featuring a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum that can reach up to 34°C (94°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). During this month, the area experiences more precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 inches) over 12 days, and the humidity is fairly high at 70%. In contrast, March sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 20°C (69°F). The rainfall also decreases significantly, with only 38 mm (1.5 inches) spread over 7 days, and humidity levels lower at 64%. For more detailed information, you can check Polokwane weather in March.

When comparing the weather in January and April, notable differences emerge in both temperature and precipitation. January boasts a wider temperature range, with minimums of 11°C and maximums reaching as high as 34°C, while April experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums at 7°C and maximums at 31°C. Additionally, January sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 107 mm over 12 days, compared to April's 28 mm over just 6 days. Consequently, the humidity in January is also higher at 70%, while April maintains a lower level at 63%. For those looking to explore the weather specifics in April, more information can be found here: Polokwane weather in April.

In January, the weather is significantly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) and a higher average humidity of 70%. It also experiences more precipitation, with 107 mm (4.2 in) falling over approximately 12 days. In contrast, May brings cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), and much less rainfall of just 12 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 64%. For a detailed look at May weather, visit Polokwane weather in May.

January weather in Polokwane is characterized by warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and an average high of 34°C (94°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, and a humidity level of 70% contributes to a muggy atmosphere. In contrast, June brings much cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). Notably, June sees minimal rainfall, averaging just 2 mm (0.1 in) with no rainy days, and a lower humidity of 61%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Polokwane weather in June.

The comparison of weather between January and July reveals a stark contrast in temperatures and conditions. January features a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), and an average of 21°C (71°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 70% and significant rainfall, with about 107 mm (4.2 in) spread over approximately 12 days. In contrast, July is markedly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of only 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is minimal in July, totaling just 2 mm (0.1 in) over 1 day, and the humidity is slightly lower at 64%. For a detailed look at the specific weather conditions during this month, you can check Polokwane weather in July.

January and August present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a sizzling maximum of 34°C (94°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, alongside a high humidity of 70%. In contrast, August sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), averaging just 16°C (61°F). Notably, August is considerably drier, boasting only 3 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation across zero rainy days and a lower humidity level of 61%. For more detailed information, check out Polokwane weather in August.

January and September in Polokwane present notable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with precipitation totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days and humidity levels around 70%. In contrast, September showcases milder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and reaching a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging at 19°C (66°F). Notably, September is much drier, with only 7 mm (0.3 in) of precipitation occurring on just one day, and humidity levels slightly lower at 65%. For a detailed look at the weather in September, you can visit Polokwane weather in September.

In comparing the weather of January and October, January tends to be warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). The month experiences higher precipitation levels as well, with about 107 mm (4.2 in) of rain spread over 12 days and a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, October is cooler, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 37°C (98°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). It also features significantly less rain, totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) over just 7 days, and a lower humidity of 61%. For more detailed information about October weather, visit Polokwane weather in October.

January and November in Polokwane present similar average temperatures, hovering around 21°C (70°F). However, January tends to be slightly warmer at its maximum with temperatures reaching up to 34°C (94°F), compared to November's peak of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are higher in January, with 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, while November receives 87 mm (3.4 in) across 13 days. Additionally, humidity is marginally higher in January at 70%, compared to November's 68%. For more detailed insights, check Polokwane weather in November.

In January, the weather reflects a slightly cooler average temperature of 21°C (71°F), with maximums reaching 34°C (94°F), while December experiences a higher average of 22°C (71°F) and can get as warm as 36°C (97°F). Both months see a similar level of precipitation, with January receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days and December with slightly more at 108 mm (4.3 in) over 15 days. Humidity is quite consistent, with January at 70% and December slightly higher at 72%. For detailed insights, you can check Polokwane weather in December.

Compare Polokwane's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Polokwane

January in Polokwane brings a vibrant blend of warmth and humidity, marking a distinct contrast to the cooler months. As the temperatures soar, reaching a peak of 34°C (94°F), the air remains thick with humidity at around 70%, creating a tropical feel that can be both invigorating and challenging. This month typically sees an increase in rainfall, with about 107 mm falling over roughly 12 days, enhancing the lushness of the landscape. Unlike the drier seasons, January's wet weather not only cools the air but also replenishes the environment, making it a unique time to experience Polokwane's natural beauty. For a deeper understanding of its climate patterns, visit Polokwane Climate.