Weather in Juba

Planning a trip or simply interested in the weather in Juba? Below you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, detailed forecasts, and useful charts to help you stay informed.

The climate in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, is typically tropical, characterized by high temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from about 26°C in the middle of the year to 32°C at the beginning of the year, with daytime highs regularly reaching 30-38°C. This means travellers should be prepared for hot weather regardless of the season.

In Juba, two main seasons are clearly pronounced: dry and wet. The dry season usually falls between December and February. During these months, precipitation is practically absent, and the number of rainy days is minimal (1-2 days). From March, a transition period begins with a gradual increase in rainfall, shifting into the wet season. The wet season lasts roughly from April to October, peaking from May to September, when the number of days with precipitation can range from 15 to 20 per month. Despite the frequency, the rainfall itself during these months may not be overly abundant. November marks a gradual decrease in rainfall and a return to drier conditions.

The temperature regime in Juba is characterized by consistently high readings throughout the year, though with notable seasonal fluctuations. The hottest months are usually February and March, when the average monthly temperature reaches 31.9-32.0°C, and daytime highs can rise to 37.4-37.8°C. Nights during this period are also warm, with minimum temperatures around 25.9-26.5°C. The "coolest" months are considered to be July and August, when the average temperature drops to 26.2-26.3°C. At this time, daytime highs are around 30.3-30.4°C, and nightly lows can reach 22.1-22.4°C.

In the so-called "summer" period, which falls on the months from January to March, the weather in Juba is very hot and dry. Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 35°C, and the difference between day and night temperatures is quite significant, amounting to about 11-12°C. This means evenings can bring some relief after the daytime heat. The "winter" period, coinciding with the peak of the wet season (June-August), is characterized by more moderate, but still warm temperatures. The daytime heat subsides slightly, and nights become noticeably cooler compared to the hot season. Temperature fluctuations between day and night during these months are less pronounced, constituting about 8-9°C.

Transition months, such as April-May and September-November, show a gradual change in temperature regimes. For example, in April the average temperature is about 30.3°C, and in November — 28.4°C. Overall, even in the "coolest" months, warm weather persists in Juba, making it a year-round hot destination. Travellers should be prepared for high temperatures at any time of the year, but especially during the period from December to March.

Juba observes distinct seasonality in rainfall distribution throughout the year, with a clear division into dry and wet periods. Understanding these cycles will help you better plan your trip and choose suitable clothing.

The dry season in Juba falls during the Northern Hemisphere winter months: December, January, and February. At this time, precipitation is practically absent. The average monthly rainfall in January, February, and December is 0 mm, and the number of days with precipitation is minimal – just 1-2 days per month. This is the driest period of the year.

The transition to the wet season begins in March, when about 1 mm of rain falls and there are roughly 6 rainy days. The wet season gains strength in April (3 mm of rainfall, 11 rainy days) and reaches its peak from May to October. During these months, the average monthly rainfall is about 4 mm, which is the maximum figure for Juba. However, more indicatively, the frequency of rains increases significantly. July and August are the rainiest months in terms of the number of days with precipitation – an average of 20 days in each. In September and October, a high probability of rain also persists (18 and 17 days respectively), although the total amount of rainfall remains at the level of 4 mm. From November (1 mm of rainfall, 8 rainy days), the amount and frequency of precipitation begin to decrease, heralding the arrival of the dry season.

When packing for Juba, remember that a hot tropical climate awaits you all year round. The foundation of your wardrobe should consist of light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen, preferably in light colours. Loose fits and perhaps light long-sleeved shirts for sun protection will help you better tolerate high temperatures, which often rise above 35°C, especially from January to March. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF cream – the sun in South Sudan is very active, and protection from it is a priority in any weather.

Distinct dry and wet seasons are defined in Juba, which is worth considering when packing your suitcase. The wet season lasts roughly from April to October, with a peak in rainy days from May to September (up to 20 days per month). During this period, a light raincoat or a compact umbrella will be useful, as rains, although not always abundant in quantity (about 4 mm per month), can be frequent. The dry season (December-February) is characterized by an almost complete absence of precipitation, so the focus shifts to maximum protection from the scorching sun. Regardless of the season, evenings may bring some relief after the daytime heat, but the temperature rarely drops below 22-24°C, so you are unlikely to need warm clothes. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent, which will be especially relevant during the wet period and in the evenings.