Weather in Sutherland

Sutherland, South Africa: Climate and Weather

Sutherland is a small town located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. It is renowned for its clear skies and dry climate, making it an ideal location for astronomical observations. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,450 meters (4,757 feet) above sea level, which contributes to its unique climate and weather patterns. In this article, we will explore the climate and weather conditions in Sutherland throughout the year.

Temperature

Sutherland experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature in Sutherland is 11.3°C (52.3°F). Summers, which last from December to February, are generally warm with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). However, temperatures can occasionally exceed 30°C (86°F) during heatwaves.

Winters in Sutherland, from June to August, are extremely cold with temperatures dropping below freezing. The average winter temperature ranges from -2°C to 9°C (28°F to 48°F). Frost is common during this season, and snowfall occurs occasionally, turning the surrounding landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland.

Precipitation

Sutherland is known for its dry climate, with rainfall occurring primarily during the summer months. The town receives an average annual precipitation of 202 millimeters (7.95 inches). The rainfall is generally sporadic and can be highly variable from year to year.

The wettest months in Sutherland are January and February, with an average rainfall of 49mm (1.93 inches) and 49.7mm (1.96 inches) respectively. The rest of the year tends to be relatively dry, with little to no rainfall. The driest month is July, with an average rainfall of only 2mm (0.08 inches).

Sunshine Hours

Sutherland is famous for its clear skies and abundant sunshine, which is one of the reasons it is a popular destination for stargazing and astronomy. The town enjoys an average of 3,227 sunshine hours per year, making it one of the sunniest places in South Africa.

The sunniest months in Sutherland are August and September, with an average of 279 sunshine hours each. December and January also receive a significant amount of sunshine, with an average of 268 and 267 sunshine hours respectively.

Wind

Sutherland is known for its strong and persistent winds, especially during the summer months. The prevailing winds in the area come from the southwest, with an average wind speed of 19 kilometers per hour (12 miles per hour).

During the summer, the winds can reach higher speeds, occasionally gusting up to 40 kilometers per hour (25 miles per hour). These winds can contribute to the cooling effect during hot summer days, providing some relief from the heat.

Conclusion

Sutherland, South Africa, experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. The town is known for its clear skies, dry climate, and abundant sunshine, making it a popular destination for stargazing and astronomy. With its unique weather conditions and breathtaking landscapes, Sutherland offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors.