Here’s an updated and extended seasonal weather outlook for the Free State in South Africa:
Autumn 2025 (March – May 2025):
- Rainfall: The northeastern parts of South Africa, including parts of the Free State, are expected to have wetter-than-usual conditions extending into early autumn (March). The southwestern parts of the country are expected to be drier. As autumn progresses, rainfall is generally expected to decrease across the Free State as it transitions into the drier winter months.
- Temperature: Warmer than usual temperatures are expected across most of South Africa through to July 2025.
Winter 2025 (June – August 2025):
- Rainfall: Winter in the Free State is typically dry. No specific rainfall outlook for winter 2025 was found in the search results, but generally, expect low rainfall during these months. The Western Cape usually receives winter rains, but this is not the case for the Free State.
- Temperature: Winter temperatures in the Free State can be cool to cold, especially during the evenings and early mornings. Day time temperatures will be milder, but pack warm clothing, especially for outdoor activities and early morning game drives. Expect average winter temperatures, with potential for warmer than usual temperatures as indicated in the broader outlook extending to July 2025.
Important Considerations & General Trends:
- Drier Cycle: Be aware that a potentially drier cycle is predicted to start from 2026 and last until around 2030. This outlook period (up to Jan 2026) is still within the more favourable rainfall period before this drier cycle is expected to fully establish.
- Summer Storms: Inland areas like the Free State can experience thunderstorms during the summer months. Be prepared for these, especially in the afternoons.
- Heat: Summer temperatures can be high, especially inland. Take precautions to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Sources:
- Grain SA: Take note of the CLIMATE OUTLOOK for the 2024/2025 summer season
- Daily Maverick: Weather watch: SA’s southwest forecast to have a dry autumn/early winter
- Daily Maverick: Northeast SA set for rain, warmer-than-normal across most of SA to June
- Anticipation Hub: SEASONAL OUTLOOK SOUTHERN AFRICA
- TourRadar: Weather in South Africa in 2025/2026
- Time and Date: Free State, South Africa 14 day weather forecast
Please Note: Long-range weather forecasts are inherently less precise than short-term forecasts. For detailed and up-to-date weather information, especially for critical decisions, always consult the South African Weather Service or other reliable meteorological sources closer to the specific time period you are interested in.
