Johannesburg Weather in December
South Africa · Subtropical Highlands climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
December in Johannesburg sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 14.7°C (58.5°F) to a high of 25.2°C (77.4°F), with a mean of 19.5°C (67.1°F). Compared to the annual average of 16.0°C (60.8°F), this month is 3.5°C warmer than the yearly norm. This is the hottest month of the year, reaching 25.2°C (77.4°F) on average. Precipitation averages 126.6mm, making it approximately 73.0mm wetter than the monthly average of 54.0mm. This is the wettest month of the year, with 126.6mm of precipitation and around 24.4 rainy days. The city receives an average of 11.1 hours of sunshine per day during December, with relative humidity averaging 68.3%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 18.5 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a hottest month of the year experience in Johannesburg, with wetter-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Johannesburg's altitude of 1,753 meters creates a subtropical highland climate with comfortable temperatures and summer rainfall. I've studied the data and found that the city experiences mild, dry winters and warm, wet summers. The best time for visiting is May to September, when the weather is dry and the city's outdoor attractions are most accessible.
December vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | November | December | January |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 19.1°C (66.4°F) | 19.5°C (67.1°F) | 19.4°C (66.9°F) |
| Rainfall | 87.1mm | 126.6mm | 113.6mm |
| Sunshine | 11.1 hrs | 11.1 hrs | 11.3 hrs |
| Humidity | 61.0% | 68.3% | 69.0% |
| Wind | 20.7 km/h | 18.5 km/h | 17.3 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 20.2 | 24.4 | 21.6 |
Seasonal Context
December falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Johannesburg in December, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Johannesburg in December?
The average temperature in Johannesburg during December ranges from 14.7°C (58.5°F) to 25.2°C (77.4°F), with a mean of 19.5°C (67.1°F).
How much does it rain in Johannesburg in December?
Johannesburg receives an average of 126.6mm of precipitation in December, spread across approximately 24.4 rainy days. This is the wettest month of the year.
What should I pack for Johannesburg in December?
Based on December weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella. Rain gear is essential — this month averages 126.6mm of precipitation.
Is December a good time to visit Johannesburg?
December is a month with challenging conditions. Plan activities carefully and stay hydrated.
Other Months for Johannesburg
Cities with Similar December Climate (Subtropical Highlands)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: -26.2°, 28.05°. Timezone: Africa/Johannesburg. Last updated: 2026-07-30.