The climate of Thaba-Tseka
Thaba-Tseka, a hidden gem in the mountain kingdom of
Lesotho, delights with a temperate highland tropical climate that sees dry winters. Its climate, according to the Köppen climate classification, is denoted as Cwb. Nestled in the heart of the mighty Maloti Mountains, Thaba-Tseka experiences a range of climatic conditions throughout the year.
The overall weather pattern of Thaba-Tseka is characterised by a variation in temperature, humidity, rainfall, sunshine, and wind levels all year round. High temperatures span between 10.2°C (50.4°F) in
July to 19.7°C (67.5°F) in
January, while the lowest temperatures fluctuate from -1.4°C (29.5°F) in July to 9.3°C (48.7°F) in January. When it comes to humidity, levels range from 50% in
June and July to 73% in
February. Throughout the year, Thaba-Tseka receives an annual average rainfall between 3mm (0.12") in July and 131mm (5.16") in January, with most rainy days experienced in January at 24.3 and a minimum of 1.1 days in July.
Worth noting, snowfall graces Thaba-Tseka from
April to
November, reaching its peak at 34mm (1.34") in
August. Moreover, residents of Thaba-Tseka are treated to daylight hours ranging from 10.3 in June to 14 in
December.
March to November possesses clear visibility with an average of 10km (6.2mi). Wind gusts peak to 15.7km/h (9.8mph) in August and
September.
The best time to visit Thaba-Tseka
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking sunshine-filled days and mild temperatures, the best time to visit
Thaba-Tseka would be between
May and
September. During these months, sunshine days range from 20.9 to 28.8, representing the sunniest period of the year. Additionally, this period promises minimal rainfall with levels not exceeding 13mm (0.51") and a considerably lower number of rainy days.
For trekkers desiring to conquer the Maloti mountains, the favourable visibility of 10km (6.2mi) from May to
October guarantees breathtaking panoramic views. In addition, mild wind speed, with average gusts not surpassing 15.7km/h (9.8mph), ensures comfortable conditions for various outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Thaba-Tseka
Visitors looking for dry conditions should avoid
Thaba-Tseka during the peak rainfall season from
January to
February. During this period, the region receives substantial rainfall of 131mm (5.16") and 121mm (4.76") respectively, along with a higher number of rainy days. Early months of the year also record the highest average relative humidity, thus creating a potentially uncomfortable environment for some travellers.
Spring weather in Thaba-Tseka
The spring season in
Thaba-Tseka, running from
September to
November, unfolds mild weather with temperatures varying between 13°C (55.4°F) and 19.5°C (67.1°F) during the day and 4.5°C (40.1°F) to 8.6°C (47.5°F) at night. While September experiences minimal rainfall of 13mm (0.51") over 6.1 days, November sees a significant increase to 66mm (2.6") spread across 17.5 days. Despite the heightened rainfall, the spring season also offers increased daylight hours and an impressive UV index of 4.
Summer weather in Thaba-Tseka
Summers in
Thaba-Tseka, spanning
December through to
February, bring about moderate heat and heightened rainfall. Daytime temperatures fluctuate between 19.5°C (67.1°F) and 19.7°C (67.5°F) while night-time temperatures hover from 8.6°C (47.5°F) to 9.3°C (48.7°F). Rainfall peaks in
January with 131mm (5.16") spread over 24.3 days. The region also writhes under the highest humidity during this season, scaling between 72% and 73%.
Autumn weather in Thaba-Tseka
The autumn months in
Thaba-Tseka, from
March until
May, offer a cooling respite after the summer rainfall. Daytime temperatures decrease gradually from 17.8°C (64°F) in March to 13°C (55.4°F) in May, while nights become significantly colder from 6.6°C (43.9°F) in March to 2°C (35.6°F) in May. Rainfall also sees a gradual decrease from 68mm (2.68") in March to just 9mm (0.35") in May, offering drier conditions for visitors.
Winter weather in Thaba-Tseka
The wintertime in
Thaba-Tseka, from
June to
August, can be harsh, yet mesmerising. This season, while recording the lowest daytime temperature that ranges between 10.2°C (50.4°F) and 12.8°C (55°F), also sees nights drop below freezing point, averaging from -0.8°C (30.6°F) to 1.2°C (34.2°F). June and
July mark the driest months, each registering minimal rainfall of 8mm (0.31"). Despite being the coldest season, the winter months also have the least humidity, oscillating between 50%. Snowfall does occur, but it bears the unique beauty that is intrinsic to the season.
Weather in January
January in
Thaba-Tseka presents a moderate climate to welcome the New Year. With temperatures ranging from 9.3°C (48.7°F) at night to 19.7°C (67.5°F) in the day time, this month experience noticeable diurnal temperature variations.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Despite the dip in average temperatures,
February continues to maintain the moderate weather conditions of
Thaba-Tseka. The amount of rainfall reduces to 121mm (4.76"), which is still significant, making February another wet month.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The arrival of
March brings a shift in
Thaba-Tseka's weather. This month observes a decrease in rainfall to 68mm (2.68"), signaling the upcoming end of the rainy season. In comparison to the previous month, the sunshine hours continue to follow an increasing trend.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a significant transition in the weather of
Thaba-Tseka. This month registers the first snowfall of the year, totaling 45mm (1.77"), bringing a refreshing change in the scenery. The average temperature begins to decrease, indicating the approach of the winter season.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Thaba-Tseka greets
May with a clear shift towards colder temperatures. This transforms the city scenic beauty with a combination of frosty mornings and clear blue skies. Snowfall totals 21mm (0.83") this month in Thaba-Tseka, upholding the refreshing feel.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings the onset of winter in
Thaba-Tseka. The temperatures plummet further, promising cold days and freezing nights. Although snowfall continues with a total of 27mm (1.06"), the lower humidity level of 50% keeps the atmosphere dry.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the peak of winter in
Thaba-Tseka. The temperatures reach their lowest point, with nights going down to -1.4°C (29.5°F). Snowfall decreases to 18mm (0.71"), contributing less to the overall chilly atmosphere. Relative humidity remains constant, preventing excessive dryness.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As
August arrives,
Thaba-Tseka starts moving towards the end of the winter season. The frigid temperatures begin to ease up, indicating the forthcoming spring. The month observes a 34mm (1.34") increase in snowfall, giving a final touch to the winter wonderland.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September experiences the first signs of spring in
Thaba-Tseka. The temperatures start to rise slowly, leading to a comfortable climate. Although snowfall continues, it decreases to 22mm (0.87"), indicating the end of winter. The city receives more daylight hours, radiating warmth and making the days more pleasant.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Thaba-Tseka brings the transformation of fall colors. The temperatures further increase, marking a clear departure from the cold months. The rainfall shows a significant increase from the previous month to 49mm (1.93"), refreshing the city landscapes.
Weather in October » Weather in November
As
November arrives,
Thaba-Tseka experiences the final display of fall colors. This month sees the temperature range expand, signifying the forthcoming summer. Rainfall increases to 66mm (2.6"), keeping the weather moist and the city landscapes vibrant.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December in
Thaba-Tseka marks the arrival of the summer season. The temperature range remains consistently high, signifying constant warm weather. The month receives a significant rainfall of 117mm (4.61"), making it the second wettest after
January.
Weather in December »