South Africa is preparing for a wave of intense winter systems as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecasts widespread showers and very cold conditions from Thursday to Sunday.
These weather systems will mainly affect the Western and Northern Cape, with impacts expected in the Free State and Eastern Cape.
On Thursday, 3 July, SAWS expects isolated showers (30%) over parts of the Northern Cape. Scattered rain (60%) is likely in the central interior, including Bloemfontein and Aliwal North.
SAWS forecasts widespread rainfall (80%) along the south-western coast, especially around Worcester.
Strong Winds Trigger Wind Warning
Forecasters expect strong winds to batter the south-west coast on Friday, with gusts reaching up to 80 km/h between Saldanha Bay and Cape Agulhas.
SAWS has issued a yellow level 2 warning for wind, warning of strong to gale-force gusts due to a cold front making landfall.
By Friday, very cold air will move inland. Snow may fall over the high peaks of the Eastern Cape and southern Drakensberg.
Rainfall probabilities remain high, with 60% chances across the southern interior and isolated showers reaching the Free State and southern KwaZulu-Natal.
Another Cold Front on Sunday
A second cold front is expected to hit the Western Cape on Sunday, bringing more showers and rough sea conditions.
South-westerly waves of 4.5 to 5.5 metres are expected between Cape Agulhas and Plettenberg Bay, with wave periods of 10–12 seconds.
Warnings for Rainfall, Flooding, and Cold
SAWS has issued a yellow level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall in the Western Cape.
Forecasters warn that roads and low-lying areas may flood, and fast-flowing streams could pose a danger to life.
They also expect rain on already saturated ground to cause service disruptions.
Farmers and Public Urged to Take Precautions
SAWS has urged small stock farmers and the general public to prepare for harsh weather in the Western Cape interior and the Namakwa district in the Northern Cape.
Light snow may fall over mountain peaks, and cold, wet and windy conditions are likely to persist.
Authorities encourage residents to monitor updates and heed all warnings to stay safe during this severe winter spell.
How prepared is your community to handle flooding, snow, and severe cold this winter?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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