Stilfontein Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Stilfontein, South Africa

Stilfontein, located in the North West province of South Africa, experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The town is situated approximately 180 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg and falls within the Highveld region. Here is a detailed overview of the climate and weather conditions in Stilfontein throughout the year.

Temperature

The temperature in Stilfontein can vary significantly between seasons. Summers (December to February) are hot and dry, with average high temperatures ranging from 30 to 34 degrees Celsius (86 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit). Heatwaves are not uncommon during this period, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters (June to August) in Stilfontein are relatively mild compared to other parts of South Africa. Average high temperatures range from 17 to 21 degrees Celsius (63 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit), while average lows range from 4 to 7 degrees Celsius (39 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit). Frost is rare but can occur occasionally during the coldest winter nights.

Rainfall

Stilfontein experiences most of its rainfall during the summer months, with November to March being the wettest period. The town receives an average annual precipitation of around 450 to 550 millimeters (18 to 22 inches). However, rainfall can be highly variable from year to year, with some years experiencing drought conditions. The winter months are relatively dry, with little to no rainfall. This contributes to the overall arid nature of the region. It is important to note that the majority of the rain in Stilfontein comes in the form of thunderstorms, which can be intense but short-lived.

Sunshine

Stilfontein enjoys a high amount of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of over 8 hours of sunshine per day. The summer months have the most sunshine, with clear and sunny days being the norm. Even during the winter months, Stilfontein still experiences a significant amount of sunshine.

Wind

The town of Stilfontein is not known for strong or persistent winds. However, occasional gusts can occur during thunderstorms or frontal systems passing through the area. The prevailing wind direction is predominantly from the south and southwest.

Climate Summary

To summarize, Stilfontein has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The town receives most of its rainfall during the summer months, while winters are relatively dry. Stilfontein experiences a high amount of sunshine throughout the year, with temperatures reaching their peak during the summer and dropping to milder levels during the winter. Here is a table summarizing the average monthly temperature and rainfall in Stilfontein:

Month	Average High Temperature (°C)	Average Low Temperature (°C)	Average Rainfall (mm)
January	33	19	91
February	32	18	78
March	31	17	71
April	28	13	36
May	24	9	14
June	21	5	7
July	21	5	6
August	23	7	10
September	26	11	20
October	29	14	45
November	31	16	66
December	32	18	86

Weather Hazards

While Stilfontein generally experiences favorable weather conditions, there are a few weather hazards to be aware of. During the summer months, thunderstorms can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the possibility of hail. It is essential to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions during these events. Additionally, heatwaves can occur during the summer, leading to high temperatures and increased risk of heat-related illnesses. It is important to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid unnecessary sun exposure during these periods.

Conclusion

Stilfontein's climate can be characterized as semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters. The town receives most of its rainfall during the summer months, while winters are relatively dry. Stilfontein enjoys a high amount of sunshine throughout the year and experiences occasional thunderstorms during the summer. By being aware of the climate and weather conditions in Stilfontein, residents and visitors can better prepare and enjoy their time in this South African town.