December weather forecast
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

December concludes the year on a high in Pietermaritzburg, taking on the full force of summer. A significant rise in evening temperature to 16°C (60.8°F) combined with a peak in distressingly high UV index marks the advent of summer. The rainfall remains high at 108mm (4.25"), ensuring intense, quick showers followed by sunny intervals. The long daylight hours provide ample time for outdoor activities. The year ends with mixed feelings of warmth, sun, and recurring bouts of rainfall in December.

Temperature

Pietermaritzburg witnesses its highest temperatures in January through March and December, reaching an average of 28°C (82.4°F).

Rainfall

In December, in Pietermaritzburg, the rain falls for 16 days. Throughout December, 108mm (4.25") of precipitation is accumulated. In Pietermaritzburg, during the entire year, the rain falls for 123 days and collects up to 832mm (32.76") of precipitation.

Daylight

The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 14h and 0min of daylight.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 04:50 and sunset at 18:44. On the last day of December, in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, sunrise is at 05:01 and sunset at 19:02 SAST.

Sunshine

The months with the least sunshine in Pietermaritzburg are January through May, September through December, with an average of 7h of sunshine.

UV index

January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: The maximum daily UV index, 12 in December, converts into the following recommendations:
Put into effect every precaution of importance, unprotected skin and eyes may get burns swiftly. Seek shade and limit direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the peak period for UV radiation. Keep in mind that shade structures like parasols or canopies do not offer complete sun protection. Sunglasses providing both UVA and UVB protection are non-negotiable on sunlit days. If you tend to burn easily, reduce your time in direct sunlight. And never forget to apply a sunscreen with 30 SPF or more.