About Port Elizabeth Weather

Port Elizabeth, otherwise known as the ‘windy city’ enjoys a moderate climate. It is situated in the Eastern Cape, and lies directly between the subtropical conditions of KwaZula Natal and the Mediterranean conditions of the Western Cape. The topographical placement if this city is what causes its pleasant weather conditions.

The weather in Port Elizabeth falls under the Koppen climate classification, and has an oceanic climate. Because of this temperate climate the weather in Port Elizabeth enjoys moderate temperatures all year round with relatively light rainfall. It is also lucky to have an average of 8 to 7 hours of daylight; this is more sunshine hours than any other city along the South African coastline.

The summers are warm with temperate humidity levels while the winters are mild and pleasant. Because of the temperate weather in Port Elizabeth the sea temperatures are always enjoyable enough to swim, this means that water sports, even surfing and diving are practiced all year round.

Sun seekers visiting Port Elizabeth will be delighted to hear that the weather during spring and summer is generally hot. The average daily temperature reaches 25°C/77°F, but can rise to over 30°C/86°F, particularly in February which is known as the hottest month of the year. During winter and autumn (April to August) the daytime temperatures average 20°C/68°F, not much variation from summer. Night time temperatures average 8°C/45°F, although on occasion they have been recorded to reach below freezing. The region is the coldest during July when the temperature drops to below 7°C on average during the night.

Port Elizabeth normally receives an average of 584 mm (23.0 in) of rainfall per year, or 49 mm (1.9 in) per month, with rainfall occurring throughout the year. It receives the lowest rainfall in January and the highest in October.

Port Elizabeth is known as the ‘windy city’, but according to the Beaufort Wind Scale, which classifies any wind greater than 8 m/s as a Fresh Breeze, Port Elizabeth experiences a Fresh Breeze on 20.2% of the days in the year (73 days of the year).

The weather in Port Elizabeth has its fair share of humidity, with the average annual relative humidity is 79.0% and average monthly relative humidity ranges from 75% in July to 82% in March. The weather does tends to be less hot and the climate is noticeably less humid then the northern regions of South Africa.

Given the weather in Port Elizabeth it is no surprise that it has become such a popular destination for tourists, especially those who enjoy water sports and beach related activities. And it is this beautiful weather that has contributed to the reputation of Port Elizabeth as a fantastic city with an outstanding quality of life.