Port Elizabeth, SAR, had its July Record High Minimum with 16.9°C

South Africa is experiencing unprecedented winter warmth, with mid-summer temperatures being recorded in the middle of July, a time typically associated with crisp, cool weather across the region. From east to west, north to south, the country is basking in widespread, unseasonal heat, affecting coastal zones, inland plains, and even the highlands.

Summer in Winter: Temperatures Soar Above 30°C

Daytime highs exceeded 30°C in numerous locations, a remarkable anomaly for mid-winter in the Southern Hemisphere. This pattern has affected:

Inland regions, which normally experience dry, cool winters
Coastal areas, where sea breezes usually moderate temperature extremes
Highland zones, where cold mornings and frosty nights are common in July

In many areas, these temperatures are 10–15°C above average, breaking numerous local and regional records.

Port Elizabeth Breaks Record for Warmest July Night

Among the standout anomalies, the city of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) registered a minimum temperature of 16.9°C, the warmest July night on record for the city. This qualifies as a tropical night — a rare occurrence in South African winter, and virtually unheard of in this region.

Winter Pattern Shift

Meteorologists and climatologists are increasingly concerned about the frequency and scale of these winter warm anomalies, which are becoming more common in southern Africa. Drivers of this event likely include: