Napier Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Napier, Western Cape, South Africa. The figures are based on a 30-year period (1990–2020) to provide a reliable average. Now, let's break down all the details for a clearer picture.
Napier maintains relatively dry conditions year-round, with an average annual precipitation of 478 mm (19 in). However, it does have a distinct dry season during certain months, creating distinct seasonal patterns visible in our monthly breakdown below.
Monthly Rainfall & Rainy Days
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
Napier offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between July (50 mm (2 in)) and January (29 mm (1.1 in)) is not too significant, making the climate enjoyable for visitors and residents alike.
July, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 19°C (66°F). During the driest month January you can expect a temperature of 28°C (82°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Napier Temperature page.
Annual Rainfall in South Africa: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across South Africa. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
Napier vs World: Rainfall Compared
Napier's average annual precipitation is 478 mm (19 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
Athens, Greece, receives an average annual precipitation of 400 mm (16 in), making it one of the drier Mediterranean climates with rainfall mostly in winter.
In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm (49 in), with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.
Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm (20 in) of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.
Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm (102 in) of rainfall annually, with no distinct dry season and consistent monthly precipitation.
Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.
Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.
The proximity of a location to a large body of water can significantly affect its rainfall patterns:
- Ocean Influence: Coastal regions typically receive more rainfall due to the presence of moisture-laden winds from the ocean. These regions tend to have more humid climates and experience more frequent precipitation, especially in winter.
- Continental Climates: Areas further from the sea, such as inland or continental regions, experience less frequent rainfall and more extreme seasonal variations in precipitation.
- The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
- Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
- A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.
For more detailed information about Napier's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Napier Climate page.
Napier Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Napier - and find the best time to visit.
Napier 3-Day Forecast
Temperature Rainfall
See the full Napier climate overview or explore weather in South Africa.
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