Drakensberg Rainfall Hiking Scale

Hiking Rainfall Scale mm in a 24 hour period

0–2 mm (Light drizzle / trace rain)

Barely noticeable, may not even wet the ground.

Hiking: Generally fine, but trails may be slippery if continuous. Light rain gear optional.

3–10 mm (Light to moderate rain)

Noticeable wetting of surfaces, damp ground, puddles may form.

Hiking: Still manageable with good waterproof clothing. Expect some mud. Keep electronics/warm gear dry.

11–20 mm (Moderate to heavy rain)

Consistent soaking, streams/rivers begin to swell.

Hiking: Increasingly unpleasant. Trails become muddy and slippery. Waterproof boots and rain gear essential. Consider postponing long hikes, especially in steep or exposed terrain.

21–40 mm (Heavy rain)

Significant runoff, rivers may rise quickly.

Hiking: Generally not recommended. High risk of hypothermia, reduced visibility, and dangerous crossings. Only attempt short, safe routes if well-prepared.

41–60 mm (Very heavy rain)

Local flooding, trails washed out, streams dangerous to cross.

Hiking: Unsafe. Avoid. Risk of flash floods in gorges and landslides in mountains.

60+ mm (Torrential rain / storm conditions)

Major flooding, severe erosion, extreme risk in mountains.

Hiking: Do not hike. Seek shelter. Trails impassable and very dangerous.

Key Tips

Intensity matters: 10 mm spread over 12 hours feels different from 10 mm in one storm.

Mountains amplify risk: Steep terrain causes faster runoff, swollen rivers, and slippery rock.

Wind + rain combo: Strong wind makes even light rain hazardous due to windchill.

Always check forecasts before heading out; avoid committing to exposed sections if heavy rain is expected.

Sources: WMO (World Meteorological Organization) and SAWS (South African Weather Service) and Mountain Club of South Africa