Climate & Weather in Cape Town (2026)

Summer months (Dec–Feb) are ideal for outdoor activities—warm, sunny, and dry, though January–February can be very hot (reaching 35°C (95°F)+). Wind picks up in these months.
Winter (Jun–Aug) brings frequent rain (especially June, the wettest month), but days often feature clear periods. The cold is mild by most standards (rarely below 10°C (50°F)), but houses lack heating, so it feels colder indoors.
Cape Town is famous for unpredictable weather—locals joke about 'four seasons in one day.' Expect sudden wind shifts, brief downpours, and rapid clearing.
The ocean is perpetually cold (14–18°C (57–64°F)). Swimming is uncomfortable even in peak summer; wetsuits are common.
May–August is the rainy season; expect 70–98mm monthly. September onwards sees rainfall decline sharply.
Wind conditions improve significantly May–August (winter), making it the preferred season for water sports and outdoor activities for locals.

None in the city; occasional snow dusting on Table Mountain peaks during winter

Mediterranean—warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters

Humidity: Generally 70–74% year-round, peaking in May at ~81%
Summer Wind: Strong southeasterly wind (the 'Cape Doctor') most common December–January, creating windy, dry conditions
Sunshine Hours: 3,087 hours annually; ~11 hours/day in summer, ~5.8 hours/day in June
Winter Conditions: Wet and cool but with occasional clear, sunny days despite the season

AI-generated estimateData refreshed July 2026

These are the sources cited in this climate & weather research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.

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Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.