January Weather in Potchefstroom, South Africa

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In January, Potchefstroom, South Africa, experiences vibrant summer weather characterized by temperatures that peak at a maximum of 37°C (99°F) and maintain an average of 23°C (73°F). The nights cool down pleasantly, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (53°F). This month sees significant rainfall, accumulating to 109 mm (4.3 in) over about 12 days, which contributes to a humidity level of 71%. Such conditions create a dynamic and often humid atmosphere, making it a unique time of year for residents and visitors alike.

January Temperature in Potchefstroom

In Potchefstroom, South Africa, January is characterized by warm temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a comfortable average of 23°C (73°F). As the month progresses, the thermometer often peaks at a scorching 37°C (99°F), setting the tone for a sultry summer. This trend of warmth remains steady into February, although temperatures begin to gradually decline, with highs reaching 33°C (92°F). A noticeable cooling trend continues into the following months, with March and April showcasing milder averages of 21°C (70°F) and 18°C (64°F), respectively. The transition from the heat of January to the cooler months highlights Potchefstroom's distinct seasonal variations, making it an intriguing destination for climate enthusiasts.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Potchefstroom, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Potchefstroom, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec737169645752515866707272
Data source: Temperature data for Potchefstroom 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.

January Precipitation in Potchefstroom

January in Potchefstroom, South Africa, marks a peak in precipitation, receiving a robust 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain over 12 days, setting the stage for a lush summer. This trend continues into February, with slightly higher rainfall at 110 mm (4.3 in), but by March, the skies begin to dry up considerably, dropping to just 52 mm (2.1 in). The contrast is stark as the year progresses; from May to July, rainfall plummets to negligible levels, with July receiving no precipitation at all. Post-winter, November sees a resurgence with 80 mm (3.1 in), leading into December's notable increase of 124 mm (4.9 in), hinting at the cyclical nature of Potchefstroom's climate, where the summer months boast substantial rain followed by a dry winter season. Overall, January serves as a vital transitional month, laying a foundation for the fluctuating precipitation that characterizes Potchefstroom's yearly climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Potchefstroom

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Potchefstroom, 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 Potchefstroom, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1091105253873364480124
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Potchefstroom

In January, Potchefstroom experiences an average humidity of 71%, setting the stage for a humid summer. This level of moisture is followed closely by February at 70%, but as the months progress, a gradual increase in humidity is observed, peaking in March with 74% and continuing its ascent to 75% in April. As winter approaches, the humidity begins to taper off, with cooler months like August and October seeing the lowest readings, around 56% and 54% respectively. However, a slight rise is noted in November and December, where humidity levels rebound to 59% and 67%. This trend highlights the seasonal variations in Potchefstroom, reflecting the shift from the humid summer months to the drier winter season, before returning to moisture as the year closes.

January Average Humidity in Potchefstroom

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Potchefstroom, 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 Potchefstroom is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec71%71%74%75%70%65%59%56%56%54%59%67%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Potchefstroom

In January, Potchefstroom experiences one of its peak UV Index readings at an intense 16, categorizing it as an extreme exposure level with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV levels continues throughout the summer months, with February and March closely trailing at 15 and 13, respectively, ensuring that sun protection is paramount. As the seasons transition into April, the UV Index gradually decreases to 11, but remains in the extreme category. Notably, even as temperatures cool in May and June, the UV Index noticeably drops to 7 and 5—still high enough to warrant caution. The summer returns in September, bringing another extreme level of 11. As we look across the year, it’s clear that January stands out as a critical month for sun safety; its high UV exposure underscores the importance of taking protective measures while enjoying the beautiful South African sun. For more information on UV levels throughout the year, check out Potchefstroom UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Potchefstroom for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Potchefstroom 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 Potchefstroom typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16151311756811131516
Data source: Potchefstroom 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 Potchefstroom

January in Potchefstroom, South Africa, welcomes the year with 314 hours of radiant sunshine, setting a vibrant tone for the months ahead. As February rolls in, the sun shines a bit brighter, totaling 330 hours, while March peaks at an impressive 360 hours. This trend of increasing daylight continues into April with 320 hours, before slightly dipping in May to 321 hours. As the cooler months arrive, June sees the least sunshine at 299 hours, but spirits are lifted as the sun basks Potchefstroom in 315 hours of warmth in July. The sun reclaims its strength in the subsequent months, with August offering 330 hours and September reaching 339 hours. October dazzles with a delightful 373 hours, while the finale of the year brings a stunning 387 hours in December, showcasing a remarkable seasonal transition that highlights Potchefstroom's sunny disposition as the year closes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Potchefstroom: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Potchefstroom 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec314h330h360h320h321h299h315h330h339h373h379h387h
Data source: Potchefstroom January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Potchefstroom During January

In Potchefstroom, South Africa, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a modest 30%, signaling the start of the year with a mix of sun and clouds. As the months progress, this chance significantly increases, peaking during the winter months of July with an impressive 97% probability of sunny days. February and March see a gradual rise, with February at 42% and March jumping to 71%, hinting at a transition into more favorable weather conditions. The trend continues into the autumn season, where the percentages remain consistently high, above 80% from April through August. By the time you reach November, the chances dip to 70%, showcasing the characteristic variability of Potchefstroom's climate. Overall, while January may start off with limited sunshine, it sets the stage for a gradual, uplifting shift towards clearer skies as the year unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Potchefstroom

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Potchefstroom 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 Potchefstroom experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec30%42%71%82%81%86%97%83%84%69%70%47%
Data source: Potchefstroom January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Potchefstroom in January

In January, Potchefstroom basks in a generous 13 hours of daylight, marking the peak of summer and creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. As the month rolls into February and March, daylight gradually diminishes to 12 hours, signaling the transition towards autumn. The trend continues into April, where daylight drops to 11 hours, as the days become shorter and cooler. May through July sees a plateau at 10 hours of daylight, evoking the chilly stillness of winter. However, as August returns, daylight extends back to 11 hours, hinting at the impending arrival of spring. This upward trend continues into September and October, where day lengths stabilize at 12 hours before climbing back to 13 hours in both November and December, reminiscent of summer’s warmth. Overall, Potchefstroom experiences a rhythmic cycle of daylight variation, reflecting the changing seasons with each passing month.

Average Daylight Hours in Potchefstroom for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Potchefstroom throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 35m12h 58m12h 12m11h 25m10h 46m10h 28m10h 37m11h 11m11h 56m12h 43m13h 25m13h 46m
Data source: Potchefstroom daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Potchefstroom

In January, Potchefstroom experiences a gentle average wind speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), marking the month as one of the breezier times of the year. As we transition into February and March, the winds calm slightly, dipping to 2.6 m/s (6 mph), suggesting a brief respiratory lull before the gusts pick up again. Notably, the wind begins to dance more vigorously in the latter half of the year, culminating in November with a peak of 4.4 m/s (10 mph). This upward trend emphasizes a seasonal shift, as the spring months of August and September also boast stronger winds at around 3.9 m/s (9 mph) and 4.0 m/s (9 mph), respectively. By December, the winds mellow again to 3.6 m/s (8 mph), rounding off the year with a refreshing, moderate breeze. Overall, January heralds a mild start, setting the stage for a dynamic wind pattern throughout the months ahead.

Average January Wind Speed in Potchefstroom

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Potchefstroom, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.0 m/s2.62.62.42.52.72.73.94.03.84.43.6
Data source: Potchefstroom January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Potchefstroom Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, we see only slight variations. January features a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) and peaks at 37°C (99°F), averaging 23°C (73°F) with a notable 109 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation during 12 days, and a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, February exhibits a slightly higher minimum temperature of 12°C (54°F) and a lower maximum at 33°C (92°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month has comparable precipitation amounts at 110 mm (4.3 in) spread over 13 days and a slightly lower humidity of 70%. For more detailed information about February’s weather, visit Potchefstroom weather in February.

In January, the weather is typically warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), compared to March, where the temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 33°C (93°F). January also experiences more rainfall, with 109 mm (4.3 in) spread across about 12 days, while March sees significantly less precipitation at 52 mm (2.1 in) over 7 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in March at 74%, compared to January's 71%. For more detailed information, you can check Potchefstroom weather in March.

In comparing the weather conditions of January and April, January tends to be much warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), averaging around 23°C (73°F). In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), resulting in an average of 18°C (64°F). Additionally, January sees more precipitation at 109 mm (4.3 in) over 12 days, compared to April's 53 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days. Interestingly, April has a slightly higher humidity level at 75%, compared to January's 71%. For more details, you can check Potchefstroom weather in April.

In January, the weather is considerably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a sweltering maximum of 37°C (99°F), accompanied by 109 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall over about 12 days. The humidity hovers at 71%, making it feel quite muggy. In contrast, May experiences much cooler temperatures, with lows reaching -1°C (30°F) and highs peaking at 28°C (83°F). The precipitation is significantly lighter, totaling just 8 mm (0.3 in) over a mere 1 day, while humidity remains relatively stable at 70%. For more detailed information, check out Potchefstroom weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite warm with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a scorching maximum of 37°C (99°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F). This month sees considerable rainfall, with 109 mm (4.3 in) spread across approximately 12 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 71%.

In contrast, June presents a much cooler climate, where temperatures drop significantly to a minimum of -4°C (24°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is minimal, only 7 mm (0.3 in) over just 1 day, and humidity is slightly lower at 65%. For a closer look at Potchefstroom's climate during this month, you can refer to Potchefstroom weather in June.

In January, the weather is typically hot with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), averaging around 23°C (73°F). This month experiences considerable rainfall, with about 109 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity of 71%.

In contrast, July brings a much cooler climate, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and peaking at 27°C (80°F), averaging around 11°C (51°F). This month is notably dry, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, resulting in lower humidity levels of 59%. For more details on August conditions, check out Potchefstroom weather in July.

In January, the weather is characterized by warm temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum reaching up to 37°C (99°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 109 mm (4.3 inches) across about 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 71%. In stark contrast, August features much cooler temperatures, where the minimum drops to -3°C (28°F) and the average is only 15°C (58°F), peaking at a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, August is quite dry, with only 3 mm (0.1 inches) of rain recorded and no rainy days, all while maintaining a lower humidity of 56%. For more detailed information, check out Potchefstroom weather in August.

In January, the weather is notably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), averaging around 23°C (73°F). This month also sees significant precipitation at 109 mm (4.3 in) over 12 days, contributing to a humidity level of 71%.

In contrast, September experiences much cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). The average temperature for September is a mild 19°C (66°F), and it is considerably drier, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall over just 1 day, leading to a lower humidity of 56%. For more detailed information, you can check Potchefstroom weather in September.

In January, the weather is noticeably warmer, with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F) and highs reaching up to 37°C (99°F). The month experiences higher humidity at 71% and more precipitation, with 109 mm (4.3 in) over 12 days. In contrast, October brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in October is significantly lower at 44 mm (1.7 in) over just 6 days, and humidity drops to 54%. For more detailed information, you can check Potchefstroom weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, January tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), while November features milder temperatures with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F). Precipitation levels are higher in January, accumulating to 109 mm (4.3 in) over approximately 12 days, compared to November's 80 mm (3.1 in) over 11 days. Additionally, humidity is noticeably higher in January at 71%, compared to 59% in November, making the latter month feel slightly less humid and more comfortable. For more detailed insights, you can check out Potchefstroom weather in November.

In January, the weather remains warm with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F), similar to December, which averages slightly lower at 22°C (73°F). Both months experience the same minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) and peak at a high of 37°C (99°F) for January and 37°C (100°F) for December. However, January sees slightly less precipitation, totaling 109 mm (4.3 in) over 12 rainy days compared to December's 124 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days. The humidity levels are also a touch higher in January at 71% compared to December's 67%. For more detailed information, you can check Potchefstroom weather in December.

Compare Potchefstroom's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Potchefstroom

As January arrives in Potchefstroom, it brings a vibrant blend of warmth and humidity, distinguishing itself from the cooler months of the year. With temperatures soaring to a maximum of 37°C and an average of 23°C, this month is a testament to the African summer's intensity. While the humidity lingers at 71%, it complements the sporadic rainfall, with 12 days of precipitation accumulating around 109 mm, making it one of the wetter months. Consequently, January offers a striking contrast to the drier, more temperate conditions seen in the other seasons. For more insights on the overall weather trends in Potchefstroom, explore Potchefstroom Climate.