Johannesburg Weather in January
South Africa · Subtropical Highlands climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Johannesburg sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 14.4°C (57.9°F) to a high of 25.2°C (77.4°F), with a mean of 19.4°C (66.9°F). Compared to the annual average of 16.0°C (60.8°F), this month is 3.4°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 113.6mm, making it approximately 60.0mm wetter than the monthly average of 54.0mm. The city receives an average of 11.3 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 69.0%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 17.3 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature 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.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 19.5°C (67.1°F) | 19.4°C (66.9°F) | 19.3°C (66.7°F) |
| Rainfall | 126.6mm | 113.6mm | 109.1mm |
| Sunshine | 11.1 hrs | 11.3 hrs | 10.8 hrs |
| Humidity | 68.3% | 69.0% | 69.7% |
| Wind | 18.5 km/h | 17.3 km/h | 16.5 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 24.4 | 21.6 | 19.2 |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Johannesburg in January, 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 January?
The average temperature in Johannesburg during January ranges from 14.4°C (57.9°F) to 25.2°C (77.4°F), with a mean of 19.4°C (66.9°F).
How much does it rain in Johannesburg in January?
Johannesburg receives an average of 113.6mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 21.6 rainy days.
What should I pack for Johannesburg in January?
Based on January weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella. Rain gear is essential — this month averages 113.6mm of precipitation.
Is January a good time to visit Johannesburg?
January is a month with challenging conditions. Plan activities carefully and stay hydrated.
Other Months for Johannesburg
Cities with Similar January 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.