Durban Weather in January
January in Durban sees daytime temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and lows of 22°C (72°F) at night. With around 95 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall expected, it's worth packing a rain jacket.
Rainfall in Durban in January
You can expect rain on roughly 14 days based on historical data, averaging 95 mm (3.7 in) for the month. Neither particularly heavy nor particularly frequent, the rain this month is about average. A light jacket should be enough on most wet days.
Temperature in Durban in January
January is a perfect month in Durban, with 28°C (82°F) during the day and 22°C (72°F) at night. This kind of day-to-night contrast is typical for this time of year. With overnight lows of 22°C (72°F), evenings stay pleasantly warm.
Sunshine in Durban in January
The city usually sees around 183 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.So this is a great month to visit if you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit South Africa, check out our Durban's climate page.
Durban Temperature in January
Min Temperature
22°C (72°F)
Max Temperature
28°C (82°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
95 mm (3.7 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
80%
Sunshine
183 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Durban typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 28°C (82°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 21°C (70°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Durban in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Durban spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Durban historical weather extremes in January
Based on 49 years of weather observations in Durban between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The hottest January day on record in Durban reached 37°C (99°F) (January 4, 2025).
- Durban experienced its chilliest January day on January 28, 1976, reaching only 19°C (66°F).
- Durban registered its coldest January night on January 22, 1979, with temperatures dropping to 14°C (57°F).
Best Places in South Africa in January
Find out more about the weather in South Africa and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of South Africa in January →
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What to Wear in Durban in January
Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in January. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.What To Do in Durban in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit South Africa, check out our Durban's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Durban climate overview or explore weather in South Africa.
