South Africa's seasonal climate forecast: What to expect from April to August 2025

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has released its Seasonal Climate Watch for April to August 2025. According to SAWS, the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has transitioned to a neutral state and is expected to remain neutral in the coming months. However, ENSO typically has limited influence on South Africa’s winter climate, meaning its impact is expected to be minimal.

Rainfall outlook: Below-normal in the southwest, above-normal along the coast

As autumn transitions into winter, South Africa’s southwestern regions are forecasted to experience below-normal rainfall between April and August 2025. Meanwhile, the southern and eastern coastal areas are likely to receive above-normal rainfall, which could influence local weather patterns and agricultural conditions.

Temperature forecast: Warmer-than-usual conditions expected

SAWS predicts that minimum and maximum temperatures will be above-normal across most of South Africa. However, the southern and southeastern coastal areas are expected to experience below-normal maximum temperatures, offering cooler-than-usual conditions in these regions.