South Africa Weather Today – Thursday, 1 October 2026
Johannesburg will experience clear skies and cool conditions on Thursday, with temperatures ranging between 7°C and 17°C as high pressure dominates much of the interior. The national weather pattern shows a sharp divide between the eastern provinces, where light rain continues over Limpopo and Mpumalanga, and the rest of the country, which is enjoying mostly sunny and dry conditions. The Eastern Cape is recording the warmest conditions, with Gqeberha reaching a maximum of 31°C, while the Western Cape remains cool and cloudy with fresh north-westerly winds.
What This Means for Your Day
Most of South Africa will experience dry, stable weather with plenty of sunshine, making it suitable for outdoor activities in the central and southern provinces. Those in Limpopo and Mpumalanga should keep umbrellas handy and expect cooler, wetter conditions. The Eastern Cape’s heat requires sun protection and hydration, while Cape Town residents should dress in layers due to cloud cover and brisk winds. Morning commuters in Gauteng and the Free State will need warm clothing as temperatures start in single digits.
South Africa Weather Highlights
- Eastern Cape records the highest temperature at 31°C in Gqeberha
- Light rain persists across Limpopo and Mpumalanga with humid conditions
- Gauteng sees a cold start at 7°C before warming to 17°C
- Northern Cape and Free State enjoy clear skies with highs above 20°C
- Western Cape remains cool and cloudy with strong north-westerly winds
What to Expect Across the Provinces
Gauteng
Johannesburg and Pretoria will see clear skies throughout the day with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 17°C. Humidity sits at 51%, and light north-north-easterly winds of 12 km/h will provide comfortable conditions once the morning chill lifts. The cool start means warm clothing is necessary for early commuters, but midday will be pleasant under full sunshine.
Limpopo
Polokwane will experience light rain with temperatures between 10°C and 13°C. Humidity is high at 75%, and easterly winds are blowing at 28 km/h, making conditions feel cooler than the actual temperature. The persistent cloud cover and rainfall will continue to dampen outdoor plans, with wet roads requiring cautious driving.
Mpumalanga
Mbombela will also see light rain today, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 17°C. Humidity is notably high at 89%, and light easterly winds of 5 km/h will keep conditions damp and overcast. Residents should prepare for wet weather throughout the day, particularly during the morning and early afternoon.
North West
Mahikeng will have a partly cloudy day with temperatures between 11°C and 20°C. North-easterly winds are blowing at 25 km/h, and humidity stands at 61%. The few clouds will not significantly affect the otherwise dry and pleasant conditions, making it a favourable day for outdoor work and activities.
Free State
Bloemfontein will enjoy clear skies with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 21°C. North-north-easterly winds of 20 km/h and humidity at 55% will create comfortable conditions once the cold morning passes. The province is well-positioned for a sunny, dry day with no weather concerns.
KwaZulu-Natal
Durban will see clear skies and warm coastal conditions, with temperatures between 16°C and 22°C. North-easterly winds are blowing at 24 km/h, and humidity is at 55%. The coastal areas will benefit from pleasant sea breezes, making it an ideal day for beachgoers and outdoor activities along the coast.
Northern Cape
Kimberley will experience clear skies and warm conditions, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 23°C. North-north-easterly winds of 26 km/h and humidity at 53% will keep the day dry and sunny. The province continues to enjoy stable high-pressure conditions with no rainfall expected.
Eastern Cape
Gqeberha will record the country’s highest temperature today, reaching 31°C, with a minimum of 17°C. Clear skies and north-north-westerly winds at 22 km/h will combine with low humidity of 43% to create hot, dry conditions. Residents should apply sunscreen and stay hydrated, as UV levels will be elevated throughout the day.
Western Cape
Cape Town will remain cool and cloudy, with temperatures between 14°C and 16°C. Broken cloud cover and strong north-north-westerly winds of 28 km/h will make it feel cooler, particularly along the coast. Humidity is high at 85%, and conditions will remain overcast with no significant rain expected, though light drizzle cannot be ruled out.
Weekend Outlook
The weekend will bring gradual warming across most provinces. Saturday will see Johannesburg reach 22°C under clear skies, while Sunday will be slightly cooler with overcast conditions developing. By Monday, light rain is forecast for Gauteng and surrounding areas. The Eastern Cape and Northern Cape will remain warm and dry throughout the weekend, while the Western Cape may see continued cloud cover with possible showers by Sunday evening.
Weather Tips for Today
- Dress in layers if you’re in Gauteng or the Free State due to cold morning temperatures
- Carry an umbrella in Limpopo and Mpumalanga where light rain will persist
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen in the Eastern Cape and Northern Cape due to strong sunshine
- Expect brisk winds in Cape Town and the Western Cape – secure outdoor furniture and wear windproof clothing
- Stay hydrated in Gqeberha as temperatures climb to 31°C
- Drive carefully on wet roads in the eastern provinces where visibility may be reduced
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.
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