South Africa Weather Today – Thursday, 19 March 2026
Johannesburg will experience clear skies and warm conditions today, with temperatures ranging between 22°C and 27°C under full sunshine. Across the country, the Northern Cape is recording the highest temperatures at 31°C, while the northeastern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga are dealing with isolated light rain. The national average temperature stands at 25°C, with most provinces enjoying dry, settled weather aside from the rain-affected areas in the north-east.
What This Means for Your Day
Residents in Gauteng, the Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal can expect uninterrupted outdoor conditions with ample sunshine. Those in Limpopo and Mpumalanga should keep an umbrella handy as light rain showers are likely throughout the day. The Northern Cape and North West will experience the warmest conditions, with temperatures climbing into the low 30s—plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat. Coastal areas in the Eastern and Western Cape will see strong winds, particularly in Gqeberha where gusts are reaching 31 km/h.
South Africa Weather Highlights
- Hottest region: Northern Cape at 31°C in Kimberley
- Warmest inland areas: North West reaching 30°C, Free State up to 29°C
- Rainfall zones: Light rain continuing in Limpopo and Mpumalanga
- Strongest winds: Eastern Cape coastal areas recording 31 km/h easterly winds
- Coolest conditions: Western Cape at 19°C to 22°C under overcast skies
What to Expect Across the Provinces
Gauteng
Johannesburg and Pretoria are enjoying clear skies with temperatures between 22°C and 27°C. North-westerly winds at 12 km/h are keeping the air comfortable, with humidity at a moderate 56%. Expect full sunshine throughout the afternoon with no rain expected.
KwaZulu-Natal
Durban is recording clear conditions with temperatures between 24°C and 27°C. South-easterly coastal winds are blowing at 15 km/h, bringing fresh sea air inland. Humidity is elevated at 68%, typical for the coastal belt, but rainfall is not anticipated today.
Western Cape
Cape Town is sitting under overcast clouds with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 22°C. Strong north-westerly winds at 27 km/h are affecting the metro and surrounding areas. The cloud cover will persist through the day, keeping conditions cooler than the national average.
Eastern Cape
Gqeberha is experiencing clear skies with temperatures between 21°C and 24°C, but strong easterly winds at 31 km/h are making it feel cooler, especially along the beachfront. Inland areas can expect calmer conditions with similar temperature ranges.
Limpopo
Polokwane is seeing light rain with temperatures between 19°C and 27°C. North-easterly winds at 11 km/h are drawing moisture into the region. Rainfall is expected to remain light but persistent throughout the day, so outdoor plans should account for wet conditions.
Mpumalanga
Mbombela is recording light rain with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C. Humidity is elevated at 69%, and east-north-easterly winds at 11 km/h are sustaining the showery conditions. Rain is expected to taper off by evening, but surfaces will remain wet.
North West
Mahikeng is experiencing partly cloudy skies with temperatures between 23°C and 30°C. North-north-easterly winds at 9 km/h are light, and the warm conditions make it one of the hotter inland areas today. UV levels will be high, so sun protection is advised during midday hours.
Free State
Bloemfontein is recording a few clouds with temperatures between 21°C and 29°C. North-north-westerly winds at 12 km/h are keeping conditions dry and warm. The province is sitting in a settled weather pattern with no rain forecast for today.
Northern Cape
Kimberley is recording the country’s highest temperatures today, ranging from 28°C to 31°C under clear skies. North-north-westerly winds at 8 km/h are light, and humidity is low at 35%, making the heat more bearable. Residents should stay hydrated and limit strenuous outdoor work during peak afternoon heat.
Weekend Outlook
Friday will remain mostly clear across the country, with Johannesburg expecting temperatures between 16°C and 27°C. Saturday will see the first signs of change as light rain moves into Gauteng and surrounding provinces, with Johannesburg forecast to receive showers and temperatures between 16°C and 27°C. Sunday will bring more substantial rainfall, with moderate rain expected and cooler conditions dropping to between 16°C and 21°C. The wet pattern will continue into Monday with further light rain forecast. Residents planning outdoor weekend activities should aim for Friday or early Saturday morning.
Weather Tips for Today
- Apply sunscreen if spending time outdoors in Gauteng, the Free State, Northern Cape, or North West—UV levels are high
- Carry an umbrella in Limpopo and Mpumalanga where light rain will persist
- Secure loose outdoor items in Cape Town and Gqeberha due to strong winds
- Stay hydrated in the Northern Cape and North West where temperatures exceed 30°C
- Dress in layers in the Western Cape where cooler, overcast conditions prevail
- Drive cautiously in wet areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, especially on rural roads
