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Richards Bay
Water Temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay, South Africa: Current and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the sea temperature in Richards Bay in South Africa, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature in Richards Bay
27.1°C
TODAY
27.5°C
YESTERDAY
26.8°C
A WEEK AGO
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Today sea water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay is 27.1°C. This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays.
It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart for Indian Ocean in Richards Bay Over the Last 30 Days
The water temperature in Richards Bay today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Today's sea temperature is generally in line with historical values for this day.
According to our forecast, the sea temperature in Richards Bay will remain nearly unchanged in the coming days, its value will be 26.3°C.
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts across South Africa to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for Richards Bay and nearby towns and resorts is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 5 | 26.8°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 6 | 26.6°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 7 | 26.4°C | 26.8°C | |
| Mar 8 | 26.3°C | 26.3°C | |
| Mar 9 | 25.9°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 10 | 27.1°C | 26.3°C | |
| Mar 11 | 27.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| Mar 12 | 26.9°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 13 | 25.8°C | 26.9°C | |
| Mar 14 | 25.5°C | 26.7°C | |
| Mar 15 | 26.3°C | 26.6°C | |
| Mar 16 | 26.0°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 26.8°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 25.3°C | 26.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 26.5°C | 26.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 26.0°C | 26.3°C |
Sea Temperature in Richards Bay Throughout the Year
Throughout the year, the sea temperature in Richards Bay is always above 64°F (18°C), the sea temperature exceeds 72°F (22°C) for 261 days, and exceeds 77°F (25°C) for 105 days.
Below is the annual chart of sea temperature changes in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay.
January
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
February
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
March
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 23°C | 25.5°C | 28°C |
April
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 22°C | 24.5°C | 27°C |
May
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 21°C | 23.5°C | 26°C |
June
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 20°C | 22.5°C | 25°C |
July
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 19°C | 21.5°C | 24°C |
August
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
September
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 19°C | 21.5°C | 24°C |
October
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
November
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
December
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Indian Ocean in Richards Bay
You can explore detailed data on how the water temperature in Richards Bay varies each month:
What Beaches Are There In and Around Richards Bay?
Alkantstrand
Alkantstrand is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Richards Bay. It has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, ensuring high environmental and quality standards. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Alkantstrand is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Richards Bay Beach
Richards Bay Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Richards Bay. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Richards Bay Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. There is a shark hazard on the beach. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Kampstrand
Kampstrand is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Richards Bay.
Soetwaterstrand
Soetwaterstrand is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Richards Bay.
Two Mile Beach
Two Mile Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 8 km (5 miles) radius of Richards Bay. Snorkeling is possible. It is suitable for surfing.
Richards Bay Weather
MARCH 13
22°C / 26°C
moderate rainhumidity: 81% | wind: 5 km/h
MARCH 14
21°C / 24°C
light rainhumidity: 80% | wind: 3 km/h
MARCH 15
21°C / 25°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%humidity: 73% | wind: 3 km/h
MARCH 16
22°C / 27°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%humidity: 70% | wind: 3 km/h
Sea Temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
The coastal region of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The area is known for its year-round soft sunshine and warm Indian Ocean currents that boost temperatures.
Richards Bay is located in Africa in the Southern Hemisphere at a latitude of -29 degrees, along the shores of the Indian Ocean. Richards Bay lies within the KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.
The average annual daytime air temperature in Richards Bay is 25°C (77°F), with the average nighttime temperature being 16°C (61°F). The highest average daily temperature occurs in February, reaching 28°C (83°F), while the lowest is in July at 23°C (73°F). As for nighttime temperatures, the minimum average temperature of 11°C (53°F) is recorded in July, and the maximum is in February, reaching 21°C (69°F).
According to historical data, Richards Bay experiences 104 rainy days per year, which accounts for 28 percent of all days in the year. On average, there are 9 rainy days each month. The wettest month is December, with 14 rainy days and 118 mm (4.6 inches) of precipitation, while the driest month is June, which typically has 3 rainy days and only 27 mm (1.1 inches) of precipitation.
The average annual water temperature in Indian Ocean in Richards Bay is 23°C (73°F). In July, the water reaches its lowest point of the year at 19°C (66°F), while in January, it peaks at 29°C (84°F). The months suitable for comfortable beach vacations and swimming in the Indian Ocean are January, February, March, April, May, and December. During this period, the water temperature stays above 20°C (68°F) and can reach up to 29°C (84°F) on some days.
Geographical Location of Richards Bay
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Richards Bay and its Water Temperatures
What is the current sea temperature in Richards Bay?
The water temperature today in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay is 81°F (27.1°C).
In which months is the water temperature in Richards Bay comfortable for swimming?
The water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay is comfortable for swimming and beach vacations in January, February, March, April, May, and December.
What is the water temperature in Richards Bay during the winter?
The water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay during the winter ranges from 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 84°F).
What is the water temperature in Richards Bay during the spring?
The water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay during the spring ranges from 21°C to 28°C (70°F to 82°F).
What is the water temperature in Richards Bay during the summer?
The water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay during the summer ranges from 19°C to 25°C (66°F to 77°F).
What is the water temperature in Richards Bay during the fall?
The water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay during the fall ranges from 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 79°F).
Is it possible to swim in the sea in Richards Bay year-round?
No, it is not possible to swim in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay year-round, the months suitable for comfortable swimming are January, February, March, April, May, and December.
What sea temperatures can I expect in Richards Bay in the next month?
In April, the water temperature in the Indian Ocean in Richards Bay will range between 72°F (22°C) and 81°F (27°C)