East London Weather in January
During January, East London experiences high daytime temperatures of 26°C (79°F) and cooler nights around 20°C (68°F). Expect quite a bit of rainfall. Around 83 mm (3.3 in) is typical.
Rainfall in East London in January
The climate data from previous years indicates about 12 days of rain, averaging 83 mm (3.3 in) for the month. Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.
Temperature in East London in January
January in East London is generally perfect, with days reaching 26°C (79°F) and nights settling around 20°C (68°F). This kind of day-to-night contrast is typical for this time of year. With overnight lows of 20°C (68°F), evenings stay pleasantly warm.
Sunshine in East London in January
There are approximately 221 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.
Wind Speed in East London in January
Wind speeds average 4 m/s (8 knots) during January. At this speed, expect moderate winds that can raise dust and move small branches. Since this is an average, some days have gentle light winds while others experience stronger breezes that are quite noticeable.
Average water temperature in January
At 23°C (73°F), the water is warm and comfortable for swimming. Most people find this temperature ideal for spending longer periods in the water.For more travel ideas, our weather planner can help you explore destinations around the world.
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 East London's climate page.
East London Temperature in January
Min Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Max Temperature
26°C (79°F)
Water Temperature
23°C (73°F)
Chance of Rain
40%
Precipitation
83 mm (3.3 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
80%
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots)
Sunshine
221 hours
Percentage Sunshine
53%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in East London typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 26°C (79°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 18°C (64°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 East London in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for East London spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
East London historical weather extremes in January
Our historical data for East London spans 2000 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- On January 11, 2008, temperatures climbed to 34°C (93°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
- The coldest January day was on January 7, 2002, with a maximum of 18°C (64°F).
- East London registered its coldest January night on January 7, 2023, with temperatures dropping to 9°C (48°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 →
perfect weather
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tolerable
unpleasant
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What to Wear in East London in January
Warm but pleasant conditions in East London in January. Focus on lightweight, maybe with natural fabrics, cotton blend shirts, comfortable shorts, and breathable footwear. A light cover-up for sun protection is smart too. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. With water temperatures around 23°C (73°F), swimming conditions are excellent. Pack your swimsuit, goggles, and maybe some water shoes. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.What To Do in East London 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 East London's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full East London climate overview or explore weather in South Africa.
