PRETORIA — The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an urgent weather advisory as typical winter conditions settle across the country, bringing significant risks of property damage and travel disruptions. Forecasters expect a powerful cold front to sweep through, triggering rainfall and damaging winds starting this Wednesday.
On Monday, the service reported partly cloudy skies with cool to warm temperatures across most regions. However, the coastal areas of the Eastern Cape are already experiencing scattered showers, while isolated rain persists in the south and south-east. The primary concern for authorities remains the arrival of a cold front later this week, which is expected to hit the central and southern parts of the country with intensity.
Meteorologists have warned that strong surface winds over the north-western parts of South Africa could lead to localised damage to both formal and informal settlements. There are also mounting concerns regarding the potential loss of agricultural production and the disruption of critical transport routes. Falling trees and debris are cited as major hazards for commuters and residents in the affected areas.
Maritime conditions are also set to deteriorate rapidly. A warning for damaging waves has been issued for the KwaZulu-Natal coastline and the Eastern Cape. Between Plettenberg Bay and Port Edward, waves are forecast to reach heights of between four and five metres. These conditions are driven by west-to-south-west winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kilometres per hour. While these waves are expected to moderate by late Monday afternoon, the broader weather system remains volatile.
The outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday indicates a spread of isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers across the central, western, and eastern parts of the country. By Wednesday, the western interior is expected to experience cold to very cold temperatures, marking a sharp shift in the weekly climate.
Public safety officials are urging residents in vulnerable settlements to secure their dwellings and for farmers to take necessary precautions to protect livestock and crops. The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor the front as it moves across the interior, potentially impacting logistical hubs and rural infrastructure.
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