Lesotho Climate and Weather
Mountainous Lesotho boasts a climate that invites exploration and excitement. Winter and summer stand in stark contrast to each other in the northern hemisphere’s seasonal dance. Winters from April to September are typically dry, yet the summer months from October to March often bring breathtaking thunderstorms. However, the weather is quite unpredictable throughout the year.
Mokhotlong’s climate in relation to the parks of Lesotho
Mokhotlong
Mokhotlong is nestled in the rugged eastern region of Lesotho, where the climate mirrors that of the country’s prominent parks, including Ts’ehlanyane and Sehlabathebe National Parks, as well as Sani Top. However, the parks boast towering mountain peaks where the air is a bit crisper.
Dry Season – April to September – Winter
Winter brings a dry spell, with rain seldom making an appearance. The days burst with warmth while the nights embrace a chill.
April – As summer winds down, the air refreshes, bringing an average daytime temperature of 18°C/64°F. Raindrops gently taper off.
May, June, July & August – These months are filled with excitement. The typical afternoon temperature hovers around 14°C/57°F, while the early mornings can be quite chilly. Rain is a rare occurrence here.
September – The warmth begins to creep in, accompanied by the invigorating touch of the first refreshing rains. The temperatures fluctuate from a cool 5°C/41°F at night to a pleasant 18°C/64°F during the day.
Rainy Season–October to March– Summer
Summer brings a delightful mix of regular rainfall and abundant sunshine. Fog frequently sweeps in to shroud the scenery at elevated heights. The daytime temperatures are delightful.
October – The remnants of the Dry season are washed away as the rain arrives. The mornings greet you with a cool 8°C/46°F, while the afternoons warm up to a pleasant 19°C/66°F.
November, December, January & February – Stay alert for afternoon thunderstorms and strategize your activities wisely. Anticipate daytime temperatures hovering around 23°C/73°F.
March – The rain begins to ease. The days are bright and warm, with temperatures reaching a delightful 21°C/70°F.
Lesotho’s Climate & Weather
Lesotho boasts a temperate climate shaped by its rugged mountains. The seasons in Lesotho unfold in a way that contrasts with those in the northern hemisphere, dividing into two unique categories. Winters span from April to September, while Summers stretch from October to March. It is essential to recognize that due to the elevation and rugged landscape, weather patterns can shift dramatically throughout the year.
In the winter dry season, lasting from April to September, rain is a rare occurrence, and the days are filled with bright, sunny weather. Nonetheless, the temperatures take a notable plunge, with average daytime readings hovering around 18°C/64°F in April. May, June, July, and August bring a chill in the air, with average afternoon temperatures hovering around 14°C/57°F, while nights and early mornings can plunge into freezing conditions. September brings a gentle rise in temperatures, accompanied by invigorating rains and daily averages fluctuating between 5°C/41°F at night and 18°C/64°F during the day.
The wet summer season, from October to March, ushers in consistent rainfall and a veil of mist that frequently shrouds the higher altitudes. October brings a refreshing change as the dust from the dry season begins to settle, with crisp morning temperatures around 8°C/46°F and pleasantly warm afternoons reaching about 19°C/66°F. During the months of November through February, the afternoons often bring exciting thunderstorms, making it wise to plan outdoor activities with care. The daytime temperatures during this period are around 23°C/73°F, inviting exploration and excitement. As March unfolds, the rain begins to wane, making way for more sunshine, with daytime temperatures hovering around 21°C/70°F.