The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of a series of intense winter systems set to impact parts of the country from Thursday through to Sunday. The Western and Northern Cape are expected to experience the brunt of the severe weather, with notable effects also anticipated in the Free State and Eastern Cape.
Forecasts for Thursday, 3 July, include isolated showers over the Northern Cape (30% probability) and scattered rain across central regions such as Bloemfontein and Aliwal North (60%). Along the south-western coastline, particularly around Worcester, widespread rainfall (80%) is expected.
Wind and Cold Weather Warnings Issued
From Friday, strong winds are expected along the south-west coast, with gusts of up to 80 km/h between Saldanha Bay and Cape Agulhas. In response, SAWS has issued a yellow level 2 warning for wind, as a cold front makes landfall.
Colder conditions are forecast to spread inland by Friday, with snow possible over the high-altitude regions of the Eastern Cape and the southern Drakensberg. Rain chances remain high across the southern interior, while isolated showers may reach the Free State and southern KwaZulu-Natal.
Second Cold Front to Arrive on Sunday
A second cold front is predicted to sweep across the Western Cape on Sunday, bringing additional rain and unsettled sea conditions. Wave heights between Cape Agulhas and Plettenberg Bay could reach 4.5 to 5.5 metres, with wave periods of up to 12 seconds.
Heavy Rainfall and Flood Risk
SAWS has issued a yellow level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall in parts of the Western Cape. Forecasters caution that flooding of roads and low-lying areas is possible, and fast-flowing streams could pose a threat to life. Saturated ground may lead to further service disruptions as additional rain falls over the weekend.
Public Urged to Prepare
The weather service is calling on small stock farmers and residents, especially those in the Western Cape interior and the Namakwa district of the Northern Cape, to take necessary precautions. Light snow is possible on mountain peaks, and cold, wet, and windy weather is expected to persist.
Authorities are encouraging the public to stay informed by following regular updates and to adhere to all safety advisories during this bout of harsh winter weather.
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