Out of breath...

The highest peak in England is Scafell Pike at 3,209 feet above sea level. What's that to do with us being out of breath in Johannesburg? Well I've just discovered that walking around the streets here, we are 5,750 above sea level. No wonder the hill climbing is difficult!  


Every day just now it's torrential rain, still above 22C most days and still in t-shirts, but when it rains here, it goes on and on. Not much thunder and lightening, like in the summer, just constant heavy rain. All the water here comes from bore holes and is reckoned to be the cleanest in the world. The swimming pool, usually in need of a top up, is now nearly to the top! Looks like we are heading into South African Autumn! 

This is how it goes... 

Autumn

Autumn comes in late February and stays till April in Johannesburg. During this season, rain does not fall regularly. Although the period remains warm, it is not too hot. Moreover, it turns into colder as the season progresses.

Winter

Winter comes for May to July in Johannesburg. The climate generally remains warm and dry. Temperatures in daytime may reach as high as 25°C. Moreover, the scenario changes rapidly during the evening. It can feel quite chilly and it is not unusual to experience freezing temperatures at night.  

Spring

In Johannesburg, spring arrives in August and continues till October.  The springtime weather is quite pleasant, calm and steady with little wind. People forget the grey winter as thousands of small, otherwise insignificant plants cover the plains in an iridescent carpet of flowers. 

Summer

In Johannesburg, summer begins in October and lasts till March. Warm and sunny days with unexpected downpours in this time. Although shower appears sudden, it does not stay for long. Average daytime temperatures remain at 28°C and evening temperatures stand pleasingly balmy. The weather officials often characterize summer in Johannesburg as hot, sunny weather - often with afternoon thunderstorms that clear swiftly, leaving a temperate and exclusively African smell in the air.