South Africa Weather Today – Saturday, 16 May 2026
Johannesburg will see clear skies and mild autumn conditions today, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. Clear skies dominate most of South Africa, though light rain is affecting the KwaZulu-Natal coast. The interior provinces are experiencing typical mid-May conditions with cool mornings and moderate afternoon warmth, while the North West records the highest daytime temperature at 24°C.
What This Means for Your Day
Morning commuters across Gauteng, the Free State and Eastern Cape should prepare for cold starts, with temperatures as low as 6°C in Bloemfontein. The clear skies mean strong UV exposure by midday in most regions, so sun protection is necessary for outdoor activities. Only the KwaZulu-Natal coast requires rain gear today, with light showers expected in Durban and surrounding areas. Inland residents can plan outdoor activities without weather disruptions.
South Africa Weather Highlights
- Warmest region: North West reaching 24°C in Mahikeng
- Coolest morning: Free State dropping to 6°C overnight
- Only rainfall: KwaZulu-Natal coast with light rain in Durban
- Windiest conditions: Durban with 16 km/h south-southwesterly winds
What to Expect Across the Provinces
Gauteng
Johannesburg will experience clear conditions throughout the day with temperatures between 12°C and 20°C. Light easterly winds at 4 km/h and humidity at 45% make for comfortable autumn weather. Pretoria can expect similar conditions with full sunshine and moderate afternoon warmth.
KwaZulu-Natal
Durban is the only major centre receiving rain today, with light showers and temperatures ranging from 19°C to 22°C. South-southwesterly winds are reaching 16 km/h along the coast, making it the windiest region in the country. Humidity sits at 70%, and coastal residents should keep umbrellas handy for intermittent drizzle.
Western Cape
Cape Town will see clear skies with temperatures between 14°C and 20°C. Southeasterly winds at 7 km/h are moderate, and humidity at 70% reflects typical coastal conditions. The absence of the usual winter cold fronts makes this a settled day across the province.
Eastern Cape
Gqeberha will enjoy clear conditions with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 19°C. Northeasterly winds at 10 km/h and 72% humidity indicate fresh coastal air. Morning temperatures require warm layers, particularly in inland areas where overnight readings dropped below 12°C.
Limpopo
Polokwane will see clear skies and a high of 23°C after a cool start at 12°C. East-northeasterly winds at 10 km/h are noticeable but not disruptive. The province enjoys one of the warmer daytime temperatures in the country today, ideal for outdoor work or leisure.
Mpumalanga
Mbombela will experience broken cloud cover with temperatures between 15°C and 21°C. Humidity is high at 80%, and light easterly winds at 3 km/h mean conditions are calm. The cloud cover may limit sunshine compared to neighbouring provinces but no rain is expected.
North West
Mahikeng will record the highest temperature in South Africa today at 24°C, following a cold start at 11°C. Clear skies and north-northeasterly winds at 6 km/h create a significant temperature swing between morning and afternoon. Residents should dress in layers to adapt to the changing conditions.
Free State
Bloemfontein will see the coldest morning temperature at 6°C before warming to 20°C under clear skies. East-northeasterly winds at 7 km/h are light, and humidity at 48% ensures dry conditions. The wide temperature range is typical of May in the central interior.
Northern Cape
Kimberley will have clear skies with temperatures between 13°C and 21°C. East-northeasterly winds at 10 km/h and low humidity at 38% create dry, sunny conditions. The province remains stable with no weather disturbances forecast.
Weekend Outlook
Sunday will see similar conditions across most provinces, with Johannesburg expecting clear skies and temperatures between 11°C and 19°C. The interior will remain dry, though coastal KwaZulu-Natal may continue to see intermittent light showers. Monday brings scattered cloud cover to Gauteng and surrounding areas, with temperatures holding steady in the mid-to-high teens. No significant weather systems are expected to disrupt the long weekend.
Weather Tips for Today
- Wear sunscreen during midday hours in clear-sky provinces, especially Limpopo, North West and the Free State
- Layer clothing for the morning in Bloemfontein, Gqeberha and Mahikeng where overnight lows are well below 12°C
- Carry an umbrella in Durban and along the KwaZulu-Natal coast due to light rain
- Take advantage of settled conditions for outdoor activities in Gauteng, Western Cape and Eastern Cape
- Expect high daytime UV levels in clear-sky regions—limit direct sun exposure between 11:00 and 15:00
Useful Weather and Travel Links
Looking for more to do after checking the forecast? Explore the latest events in Gauteng and plan your day around the weather.
You can also browse our weather category for more South Africa weather updates and recent forecast articles.
For official forecasting and weather advisories, visit the South African Weather Service.
