South Africa Weather Today – Saturday, 9 May 2026
Johannesburg is experiencing cool and cloudy conditions this Saturday, with temperatures ranging between 7°C and 18°C under scattered cloud cover. Across the country, a clear to partly cloudy pattern dominates most provinces, with Mpumalanga recording the warmest conditions at 27°C while the Free State dips to a chilly 3°C overnight. The national average temperature sits at 15°C as South Africa settles into mid-autumn weather patterns with cooler mornings and moderate afternoons.
What This Means for Your Day
Layer up for the morning if you’re heading out early, especially in Gauteng, Free State and North West where temperatures start below 10°C. Cloud cover in Johannesburg, Pretoria and parts of Mpumalanga means you can leave the sunscreen at home, but those in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape will need sun protection as clear skies prevail. Coastal residents in Cape Town and Gqeberha should prepare for moderate northerly winds reaching up to 17 km/h.
South Africa Weather Highlights
- Warmest region: Mpumalanga reaching 27°C in Mbombela
- Coolest morning: Free State dropping to 3°C in Bloemfontein
- Windiest conditions: North West with gusts up to 24 km/h
- Clearest skies: Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Northern Cape and Eastern Cape
What to Expect Across the Provinces
Gauteng
Johannesburg and Pretoria will see scattered clouds throughout the day with temperatures between 7°C and 18°C. North-westerly winds at 14 km/h will add a slight chill to the air. Humidity sits at 48%, making conditions comfortable once the sun breaks through the cloud cover during midday. Expect a cool start that gradually warms into a mild afternoon.
Limpopo
Polokwane enjoys clear skies with temperatures climbing from 10°C in the early morning to a pleasant 22°C by afternoon. West-north-westerly winds remain light at 10 km/h. With humidity at 42% and uninterrupted sunshine expected, outdoor activities are ideal. UV levels will be moderate, so sun protection is advisable for extended time outdoors.
Mpumalanga
Mbombela records the country’s warmest conditions today, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 27°C under scattered clouds. Light west-north-westerly winds at just 3 km/h mean still, mild air. The 41% humidity level keeps conditions comfortable despite the warmth. Cloud cover will provide intermittent shade throughout the day, making it suitable for outdoor plans without excessive heat.
North West
Mahikeng experiences broken clouds and breezy conditions, with temperatures between 7°C and 20°C. Northerly winds are the strongest in the region at 24 km/h, creating a wind chill factor during the cooler morning hours. Humidity reaches 51%, and the cloud cover will be more persistent than in neighbouring provinces. Secure loose outdoor items and dress for wind.
Free State
Bloemfontein faces the coldest morning in the country at 3°C, rising to 17°C under clear skies. North-north-westerly winds blow at 19 km/h with 58% humidity. The overnight chill requires warm bedding and layered clothing for early risers. Once the sun climbs higher, conditions will become pleasant with full sunshine through the afternoon.
KwaZulu-Natal
Durban enjoys clear skies and mild coastal conditions, with temperatures between 17°C and 22°C. South-south-easterly winds at 5 km/h keep the air gentle along the beachfront. Humidity is elevated at 65%, typical for the coast, but sunshine will dominate. Sea-facing areas will experience comfortable conditions for both outdoor activities and beach visits.
Northern Cape
Kimberley sees clear skies with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 19°C. Northerly winds pick up to 20 km/h, creating brisk conditions particularly in exposed areas. At 45% humidity, the air remains dry and comfortable. The combination of sunshine and wind makes it feel cooler than the actual temperature suggests, especially during the morning.
Eastern Cape
Gqeberha experiences clear skies and mild conditions, with temperatures between 11°C and 20°C. North-north-easterly winds blow at 7 km/h with 70% humidity creating slightly muggy coastal air. Sunshine will be plentiful throughout the day. Coastal and inland areas alike can expect stable, pleasant weather ideal for weekend activities.
Western Cape
Cape Town has few clouds with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 17°C. Northerly winds reach 17 km/h, typical for this time of year, with 70% humidity adding a damp feel to the air. The partial cloud cover will drift across the peninsula intermittently. Conditions remain mild but breezy, particularly along the Atlantic seaboard and Table Bay.
Weekend Outlook
Sunday will bring clearer skies across most of the country, with Johannesburg warming slightly to between 12°C and 20°C under clear conditions. Temperatures will climb by a degree or two in most provinces as high-pressure systems settle over the interior. Limpopo, Gauteng, Free State and the Northern Cape can expect full sunshine, while coastal areas in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape will remain partly cloudy with stable conditions continuing into early next week.
Weather Tips for Today
- Dress in layers to manage the 10°C+ swing between morning lows and afternoon highs
- Apply sunscreen in provinces with clear skies, particularly Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape
- Secure outdoor furniture and garden items in North West and Northern Cape due to stronger winds
- Keep extra blankets accessible in Free State and Gauteng where overnight temperatures drop significantly
- Plan outdoor activities for late morning to early afternoon when temperatures peak
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.
