How is the Weather in Port Elizabeth?

Port Elizabeth, also known as the “Friendly City,” is located on the southeastern coast of South Africa. It is a great destination for travelers who want to experience diverse attractions such as beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and historical monuments. One of the factors that make Port Elizabeth attractive to travelers is its weather patterns.

In this blog post, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the weather in Port Elizabeth. From the average temperature, humidity levels, precipitation, and other weather factors, you will get an idea of what to expect when you visit this beautiful city.

Seasons in Port Elizabeth:

Like every other city in the world, Port Elizabeth experiences four seasons:

Summer:

Summer in Port Elizabeth starts in December and lasts until February. It is the hottest and wettest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 17°C (62.6°F) to 25°C (77°F). The humidity levels during this season are quite high, making it feel warmer than the actual temperature. You can also expect rainfalls, with the average precipitation rate per month around 90mm.

Autumn:

Autumn in Port Elizabeth begins in March and ends in May. It is a fairly mild season, with temperatures ranging from 13°C (55.4°F) to 23°C (73.4°F). The humidity levels drop during this season, making it less muggy than summer. Rainfalls also decrease, with the average precipitation rate per month around 37mm.

Winter:

Winter in Port Elizabeth starts in June and ends in August. It is the driest season of the year, with temperatures ranging from 7°C (44.6°F) to 20°C (68°F). Although the temperatures drop, it is still a great time to visit Port Elizabeth because it is relatively dry and sunny. You can expect a few rainy days, with the average precipitation rate per month around 33mm.

Spring:

Spring in Port Elizabeth begins in September and ends in November. It is a pleasant season, with temperatures ranging from 11°C (51.8°F) to 23°C (73.4°F). The humidity levels start to increase, bringing an occasional light rain. The average precipitation rate per month is around 56mm.

Overall Weather Conditions in Port Elizabeth:

Naturally, there are variations in the weather conditions year-on-year, but here is what you can expect on average:

Average Temperature:

The average temperature in Port Elizabeth throughout the year is around 20°C (68°F). However, temperatures can fluctuate based on seasonal changes, as mentioned earlier.

Humidity Levels:

Port Elizabeth is known for its high humidity levels during the summer season. The humidity levels range from 69% to 80% during this time. In contrast, during the winter season, humidity levels decrease to around 60%.

Precipitation:

Port Elizabeth receives an average rainfall of around 527mm per year. However, there are considerable variations in the amount of precipitation received across the different seasons. As previously stated, the summer season is the wettest with around 90mm of monthly rainfall, while the winter season is the driest with around 33mm of monthly rainfall.

How to Prepare for the Weather in Port Elizabeth?

Now that you know what to expect weather-wise in Port Elizabeth, you can prepare accordingly. Here are a few tips for making the most of your trip regardless of the season:

Summer:

Pack clothing made of lightweight material, as the temperatures can get quite warm during the day. It is also advisable to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from the sun. It can get quite chilly in the evenings, so it is recommended to also take a light sweater or jacket. Don’t forget to carry a raincoat or an umbrella, as you can expect rain during this season.

Autumn:

The weather during the autumn season is mild; hence you should pack layers of clothing to cope with temperature changes throughout the day. A light jacket or sweater might come in handy in the evenings, especially as temperatures start to drop.

Winter:

Pack warm and thick clothing, such as coats or jackets, as the temperatures can get quite chilly. It is also advisable to carry waterproof clothing in case of occasional rainy days.

Spring:

The weather is quite pleasant during the spring season, so pack light layers of clothing. A light jacket or sweater might come in handy in the evenings.

Conclusion

Port Elizabeth is a great destination to visit in all seasons. The weather conditions and temperature might vary based on the season, with summer being the wettest and the hottest. Nonetheless, with proper preparation, your visit to Port Elizabeth will be enjoyable! Remember to pack accordingly and enjoy your trip. If you are curious about activities that Port Elizabeth has to offer, you will find a list of current tours and attractions here.