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Contents
- The climate of Cape Town
- The best time to visit Cape Town
- The worst time to visit Cape Town
- Spring weather in Cape Town
- Summer weather in Cape Town
- Autumn weather in Cape Town
- Winter weather in Cape Town
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Cape Town, South Africa, with the surrounding calm clear waters and several mountains
The climate of Cape Town
With a prime location near the southernmost point of Africa, Cape Town experiences a Mediterranean climate or, scientifically, a Creation climate of type Csb according to the Köppen climate classification. This categorization reflects a medley of contrasting seasons, with wet winters and warm, dry summers being the norm.
The year-round temperature fluctuates, with monthly averages reaching from 22.5°C (72.5°F) to 26.1°C (79°F) at their highest, and dropping to between 10.2°C (50.4°F) and 17.7°C (63.9°F) at their lowest. Despite this, humidity remains subtly consistent, humbling around a 70% to 74% average. This is mirrored by visibility, which holds steady at a comfortable 10km (6.2mi) throughout the year, irrespective of the season.
Rainfall variations starkly contrast these stable parameters, with a near tenfold margin from 7mm (0.28") in February to 98mm (3.86") in June. Wind speed emerges likewise dynamic, from a breezy 13.4km/h (8.3mph) in winter months to a more gusty 17.6km/h (10.9mph) during January's peak. To top it off, these hard numbers are complemented by an ample range of daylight hours, vacillating from a minimum of 9.9 hours in June and July to a maximum of 14.4 hours in December.
The year-round temperature fluctuates, with monthly averages reaching from 22.5°C (72.5°F) to 26.1°C (79°F) at their highest, and dropping to between 10.2°C (50.4°F) and 17.7°C (63.9°F) at their lowest. Despite this, humidity remains subtly consistent, humbling around a 70% to 74% average. This is mirrored by visibility, which holds steady at a comfortable 10km (6.2mi) throughout the year, irrespective of the season.
Rainfall variations starkly contrast these stable parameters, with a near tenfold margin from 7mm (0.28") in February to 98mm (3.86") in June. Wind speed emerges likewise dynamic, from a breezy 13.4km/h (8.3mph) in winter months to a more gusty 17.6km/h (10.9mph) during January's peak. To top it off, these hard numbers are complemented by an ample range of daylight hours, vacillating from a minimum of 9.9 hours in June and July to a maximum of 14.4 hours in December.
The best time to visit Cape Town
For travelers attracted by dry conditions and ample sunshine, the prime time to visit Cape Town is from January to March. During this period, temperatures oscillate between a high of 24.C to 26.1°C (79°F) and a mild low from 16.3°C (61.3°F) to 17.7°C (63.9°F). Sunshine increases overall enjoyment during these months, as it averages between 9.2 hours to 11 hours per day, and gives a better opportunity to explore city attractions and scenic coastlines.
The worst time to visit Cape Town
While the beauty of Cape Town rarely fades, the weather conditions from May to August might not be to everyone's liking. These are Cape Town's coldest months, with high temperatures ranging between 16.6°C (61.9°F) and 19.7°C (67.5°F), and lows dipping to 10.2°C (50.4°F) to 13.1°C (55.6°F). Rainfall hits its maximum during these months, peaking at 98mm (3.86") in June and maintaining at good 70mm (2.76") in August. Additionally, sunlight hours are limited to between 6 hours to 6.8 hours, dampening some outdoor adventures.
Spring weather in Cape Town
Cape Town ushers in a delightful spring season, from September to November. Temperatures move from an agreeable 18°C (64.4°F) to a summery 22°C (71.6°F) and lows climbing from 10.9°C (51.6°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F). Rainfall begins to recede, tapering off from 37mm (1.46") in September to an agreeable 16mm (0.63") by December. Visitors can enjoy longer daylight hours, from 11.9 hours in September to a welcoming 13.9 hours in November.
Summer weather in Cape Town
Capetonians enjoy their summer, from December to February with temperatures that climb ever so slightly, peaking at 26.1°C (79°F) in January and February, and lowering to -8.7°C (16.3°F) to 17.7°C (63.9°F). Rainfall is minimal, sinking to 7mm (0.28") in February, and providing sun worshipers with a steady 11 hours to 11.1 hours of sunshine each day.
Autumn weather in Cape Town
From March to May, Cape Town experiences its autumn period. Temperatures start to cool, falling from high averages of 24.8°C (76.6°F) in March to 19.7°C (67.5°F) in May. Night lows also drop, reaching from 15°C (59°F) to 13.1°C (55.6°F). Despite the increasing rainfall from 11mm (0.43") in March to a peak of 46mm (1.81") in May, the town remains fairly sunny with an average of 8.6 hours to 6.5 hours of sunshine.
Winter weather in Cape Town
Cape Town's winter, from June to August, is characterized by cooling temperatures and increased precipitation. High temperatures typically reach between 16.6°C (61.9°F) to 16.8°C (62.2°F), while lows fall to 10.2°C (50.4°F). The season draws the most rainfall, peaking in June at 98mm (3.86"). Despite the shorter days and longer nights, from 9.9 hours to 10.1 hours of daylight, sunshine still manages to break through, with an average of 6 hours to 6.8 hours.
Weather in January
In this commencement of the year, Cape Town experiences peak summer conditions. The sea around this coastal city remains at a perfect 18.5°C (65.3°F) easing access to a variety of water activities. Most days in January are sunny, attributing to high temperatures and minimum rainfall. Weather in January »
Weather in February
A noted feature of the second month of the year is the drop in rainfall to an average of 7mm (0.28"), the second-lowest value of the year. February in Cape Town continues with mild humidity levels and gentle wind indicating unchanging steady summer weather. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As summer progresses into autumn in March, Cape Town weather sees a gentle slackening of heat. Visible in the noticeable drop in temperature from 26.1°C (79°F) in February to 24.8°C (76.6°F), but still sufficiently warm for outdoor events. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April is the window to changing seasons in Cape Town, and the weather turns noticeably cooler from the height of summer. Though not extreme, the highest temperature averages at 22.5°C (72.5°F), providing comfortable warmth for exploration and activities. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Cape Town marks the full swing of the autumn season. It results in a remarkable increase in rainfall to an average of 46mm (1.81"), the first significant rise in the year. The cooler temperatures stick around, the skies turn more clear, and the city sprawls in shades of red and orange; bearing an enchanting view for photography lovers. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Cape Town welcomes winter in June with the city's ambient temperature and rainfall graph hitting their yearly peaks. The cold combined with rain, often results in majestic panoramas of rainbows across the city skyline. Despite the cold, opposing climatic conditions regularly offer clear days with the well-known African sunshine providing warmth. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Cape Town continues to cement its winter status in July. Among the colder months, July averages at a minimal sea temperature of 15.3°C (59.5°F), making it the chillest month for sea adventures. Despite a lack of higher temperatures, which keeps tourists at bay, locals enjoy city-wide indoor activities and the quiet of a less congested environment. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Cape Town is a turning point as the city slowly edges out of the winter season. The weather maintains a steady cold, but a noticeable reduction in rain gives the city a chance to dry up and prepare for the impending spring. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Spring in Cape Town announces its arrival in September with a marked decrease in rainfall. Nearly drying up to 37mm (1.46"), this period is characterized by blossoming flora and the rejuvenation of all kinds of outdoor activities. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is an exciting time in Cape Town because of the evident ascent in temperature and the return of longer days. With spring in full bloom, the city attracts a surge of visitors who come to enjoy the pleasant weather and colorful panoramas. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Cape Town is a prelude to summer with the weather oscillating between pleasantly warm to hot. With temperatures pushing into their early twenties, this month starts harvesting the best of both spring and summer, making it a fan favorite. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December marks the onset of peak summer in Cape Town. With average temperatures scaling to a yearly high of 24.3°C (75.7°F), and daylight hours extending to 14.4 hours, this period becomes the most favorite for beach visits and water activities. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 25, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain in Cape Town?
In Cape Town, during the entire year, the rain falls for 111 days and collects up to 435mm (17.13") of precipitation.
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Cape Town?
January is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 18.5°C (65.3°F).
What is the month with the highest UV index in Cape Town?
January, February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
What time of the year is the hottest in Cape Town?
February is the month when Cape Town, South Africa, sees the average highest temperatures, with a high of 26.1°C (79°F) and a low of 17.6°C (63.7°F).
What are the least humid months in Cape Town?
The months with the lowest humidity in Cape Town, South Africa, are February, April and December, with an average relative humidity of 68%.
What is the driest month in Cape Town?
February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 4.9 days and accumulates 7mm (0.28") of precipitation.
When is the lowest UV index in Cape Town?
May through September, with an average maximum UV index of 4, are months with the lowest UV index.
What are the most humid months in Cape Town?
The months with the highest humidity are June, August and September, with an average relative humidity of 74%.
What is the rainiest month in Cape Town?
The month with the most rainfall is June, when the rain falls for 13.8 days and typically aggregates up to 98mm (3.86") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Cape Town?
The month with the shortest days is June, with an average of 9h and 54min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Cape Town?
The month with the least sunshine in Cape Town is June, with an average of 6h of sunshine.
What months are the sea coldest in Cape Town?
The months with the coldest seawater in Cape Town are July through September, with an average sea temperature of 15.3°C (59.5°F).
What is the coldest time of year in Cape Town?
With its average high temperature of 16.6°C (61.9°F) and a low of 10.2°C (50.4°F), August is regarded as the coldest month in Cape Town, South Africa.
When are the longest days in Cape Town?
With an average of 14h and 24min of daylight, December has the longest days of the year in Cape Town, South Africa.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Cape Town?
Cape Town does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). SAST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
What month has the most sunshine in Cape Town?
With an average of 11.1h of sunshine, December has the most sunshine of the year.
Average temperature
Cape Town, South Africa
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (26.1°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is August (16.6°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is January (17.7°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are July and August (10.2°C).
Average pressure
Cape Town, South Africa
- Average pressure in January:
1013.6mbar - Average pressure in February:
1013.4mbar - Average pressure in March:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in April:
1017.5mbar - Average pressure in May:
1018.1mbar - Average pressure in June:
1020.1mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1022mbar - Average pressure in August:
1020.4mbar - Average pressure in September:
1019.6mbar - Average pressure in October:
1017.7mbar - Average pressure in November:
1015.9mbar - Average pressure in December:
1014.3mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1022mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is February (1013.4mbar).
Average wind speed
Cape Town, South Africa
- Average wind speed in January:
17.6km/h - Average wind speed in February:
16.6km/h - Average wind speed in March:
15.3km/h - Average wind speed in April:
14.2km/h - Average wind speed in May:
13.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
15km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
14.1km/h - Average wind speed in August:
14.4km/h - Average wind speed in September:
15km/h - Average wind speed in October:
15.9km/h - Average wind speed in November:
17.5km/h - Average wind speed in December:
17.3km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (17.6km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is May (13.4km/h).
Average humidity
Cape Town, South Africa
The months with the highest relative humidity are June, August and September (74%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are February, April and December (68%).
Average rainfall
Cape Town, South Africa
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (98mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (7mm).
Average rainfall days
Cape Town, South Africa
- Average rainfall days in January:
6.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
4.9 days - Average rainfall days in March:
6.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8.8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
9.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
6.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (13.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (4.9 days).
Average sea temperature
Cape Town, South Africa
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is January (18.5°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are July, August and September (15.3°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Cape Town, South Africa
- Average daylight in January:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
9h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
14h and 2min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 14h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 9h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
11h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 0min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
11h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 11h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 6h and 0min).
Average sunshine days
Cape Town, South Africa
- Average sunshine days in January:
23.1 days - Average sunshine days in February:
21.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
22.5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
19.1 days - Average sunshine days in May:
18.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.6 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
18.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
15.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
16 days - Average sunshine days in October:
19.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
21 days - Average sunshine days in December:
22.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (23.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (14.6 days).
Average UV index
Cape Town, South Africa
The months with the highest UV index are January, February and December (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are May, June, July, August and September (UV index 4).
Average cloud cover
Cape Town, South Africa
The month with the most cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 34).
The month with the least cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 15).
Average visibility
Cape Town, South Africa
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Cape Town, South Africa
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