Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued Across Multiple Regions In SA

Severe thunderstorms are forecast for several regions in South Africa, including the North West, Gauteng, the extreme southwestern parts of Mpumalanga, the eastern and central Free State, the western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and parts of the Eastern Cape.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) reported that isolated showers and thundershowers are likely over the eastern and central areas of the country. In the southwest, a cold front is expected to reach the coast, bringing rain and showers to the southern coastline.

SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in areas including the North West, Gauteng, southwestern Mpumalanga, eastern and central Free State, western KwaZulu-Natal, and the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape, SA News reported.

These storms may bring heavy rain, small hail, strong winds, and lightning, potentially causing localized flooding, property damage, and disruptions to municipal services.

A Yellow Level 1 warning has also been issued for strong winds at sea, posing risks to navigation and small vessels. This warning applies to areas between Cape Agulhas and Plettenberg Bay, as well as between Coffee Bay and Port Edward.

A Yellow Level 1 warning has been issued for strong winds that may cause localized damage to both formal and informal settlements. This warning applies to areas within the Chris Hani District Municipality, Walter Sisulu Local Municipality, Senqu Local Municipality, as well as the central and southern parts of the Northern Cape and the western Free State.

On Reconciliation Day, President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to address the nation from Vredendal in the Western Cape. The weather for Monday's commemoration is expected to be sunny and cool, with no severe weather conditions anticipated.

The SAWS stated that Gauteng is not expected to experience heatwave conditions in the coming week, as temperatures will range from warm to hot. Holidaymakers traveling across the country have been advised to stay safe and follow the severe weather warnings issued.

Earlier this month, the SAWS issued a warning for a heatwave in the central and south-eastern parts of the North West and northern parts of the Free State, which will last until Dec. 11.