Grab, S., 2007: Rock-surface temperatures of basalt in the Drakensberg alpine environment, Lesotho. Geogr. Ann., 89 A (3): 185-193.ABSTRACT. Rock temperature data are presented for a variety of topographic localities at a high Drakensberg site. The objective is to investigate the spatio-temporal variations of surface rock temperatures in high Drakensberg basalt. The temperature results are then used to discuss possible implications for thermal stress fatigue and frost-induced weathering. Tinytalk TM data loggers and probes were used for rock-surface temperature recording. Long-term measurements were recorded over 12 months from May 2002 to April 2003, at a 1-hour logging interval and rock depth of 1 cm for a highaltitude (3300 m a.s.l.) interfluve and fracture site. Whilst the north-facing rock surface experiences negligible hours below -3°C, the south-facing rock surface and interfluve sites are subjected to considerable periods below -3°C, which falls within the 'frost cracking window'. It is concluded that the substantial contrasts of recorded rock thermal parameters over small spatial scales between various topographic settings, highlight that site-specific measurements across the broader scale are required for an adequate evaluation of regional weathering and its associated landform development.