As winter arrives, the SA Weather Service has issued a notification about an approaching period of cold,
wet, and windy weather conditions – with one province in particular expected to experience extensive rainfall.
There is a high likelihood of severe thunderstorms developing over the interior and the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape from Tuesday onwards.
“Significant weather-related impacts are expected along parts of the Eastern Cape coastline and the adjacent interior on Tuesday and Wednesday as well as over the eastern parts of the Western Cape
from Tuesday afternoon through to Thursday,” the SA Weather Service stated.
“Widespread rainfall is anticipated over the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, extending into the Free State, with 24-hour rainfall accumulations likely to exceed 100-200 mm in places
“This may result in widespread flooding. In addition, damaging winds and very rough sea conditions are expected, particularly along the south coast of the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape coastline.”
SA Weather Warnings
The following weather-related impacts are anticipated as the cut-off low progresses over the country between Tuesday and Thursday:
- Disruptive rainfall, leading to widespread flooding of roads and settlements, mudslides, major traffic
disruptions, and damage to roads and bridges, is possible along the coast and adjacent interior of the Eastern Cape, as well as the eastern parts of the Western Cape. - Damaging coastal and interior winds, resulting in power interruptions, damage to temporary
structures, as well as transport routes being affected by falling trees, are possible along the coast of
the Eastern Cape, as well as the south coast and Central Karoo of the Western Cape. - Damaging coastal waves, with wave heights exceeding 5,0 to 7.0 m, leading to damage to coastal
infrastructure, disruption to harbours and modification of beaches, are possible along the south coast of the Western Cape and the coast of the Eastern Cape, where possible storm surge could occur. - Disruptive snowfall, leading to loss of vulnerable livestock and the closure of mountain passes, is
possible over the north-eastern high-ground of the Western Cape, as well as the northern high-ground of the Eastern Cape. - Severe thunderstorms, leading to localised flooding, large amounts of small hail, and localised damage to settlements, are possible over the Free State and North West.
The public is advised to:
- Exercise caution when travelling, especially in areas prone to flooding or reduced visibility.
- Avoid crossing flooded roads and swollen streams.
- Secure loose outdoor items due to strong winds.
- Stay informed by following updates from the SAWS through official communication platforms.
