Severe Thunderstorms Expected Across Large Parts Of South Africa

An unsettled and stormy Tuesday is expected across much of South Africa as summer rainfall intensifies, particularly over the central and eastern interior.

The South African Weather Service has forecast a high likelihood of thunderstorms developing from late morning into the afternoon, with some storms expected to become severe.

The highest rainfall chances are forecast over the central interior, including the interior of the Northern Cape, the Free State and parts of the Eastern Cape.

These areas are expected to experience scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms, with rainfall probabilities of around 60 percent.

Some locations may see widespread activity accompanied by heavy downpours, frequent lightning, strong gusty winds and small hail.

The weather service has warned that these conditions may lead to localised flooding in low lying areas, as well as reduced visibility on roads, posing a risk to motorists.

A yellow level warning for severe thunderstorms has been issued for parts of the central and southern interior, including areas around Kimberley, Bloemfontein, Cradock and Aliwal North.

Heavy rainfall over short periods is expected in these regions, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable settlements and along drainage systems.

Further east, including KwaZulu Natal and the eastern Free State, scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast, with rainfall probabilities remaining around 60 percent.

Along the coast, parts of the Eastern Cape may experience showers later in the day, while the south coast has a lower but notable 30 percent chance of rainfall.

In the northern provinces, including Limpopo and Mpumalanga, more isolated thunderstorms are expected.

Rainfall will be less widespread in these areas, with probabilities near 30 percent, although brief heavy showers and lightning remain possible.

The western parts of the Northern Cape and much of the Western Cape are expected to remain mostly dry.

Residents in affected areas are advised to remain alert to changing weather conditions, particularly during the afternoon and evening, and to exercise caution when travelling in stormy weather.