The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms expected to hit several provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and the North West, from Friday afternoon.
According to the SA Weather Service, residents should brace for localized flooding, damaging winds, and hailstorms in certain areas as a large weather system moves across central and eastern parts of the country.
The public is being urged to stay alert, follow safety precautions, and monitor official forecasts and alerts closely as adverse weather conditions develop.
In its latest forecast, the SA Weather Service cautioned that the approaching weather front will bring cloudy and cool conditions, persisting throughout the day and intensifying into the afternoon.
Forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela said widespread rainfall and thunderstorm activity are expected over multiple provinces.
SA Weather Service Predicts Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms
“In our weather for today (Friday), cloudy and cool conditions are expected to persist into the afternoon, covering the central and eastern parts of the country, with a 60% chance of showers and thundershowers possible by the afternoon over the Free State province, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, the North West, into the northern parts of the Northern Cape, as well as the highveld of Mpumalanga,” Thobela explained.
The SA Weather Service noted that while many of these storms will be typical summer rainfall events, isolated areas could experience intense downpours that may result in localized flooding, especially in low-lying regions and areas with poor drainage.
The SA Weather Service said the main risks associated with this Level 2 warning include:
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Localised flooding of roads, low-lying bridges, and informal settlements.
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Damage to property and vehicles due to hail and strong winds.
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Hazardous driving conditions caused by wet and slippery roads.
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Disruption of outdoor activities and possible short-term power interruptions due to lightning strikes.
The weather authority emphasized that even a Level 2 warning should not be taken lightly. These conditions can rapidly worsen, particularly in urban areas where stormwater drainage systems can easily become overwhelmed.
Motorists are advised to drive cautiously, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid crossing flooded roads. Residents are also encouraged to secure outdoor furniture and avoid open fields or tall trees during lightning activity.
The SA Weather Service provided a breakdown of expected conditions across different provinces:
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Gauteng: Cloudy with scattered thunderstorms expected in the afternoon and evening. Localized flooding may occur in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and surrounding towns.
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KwaZulu-Natal: Warm and humid conditions with scattered showers. Thunderstorms may become severe in inland regions such as Pietermaritzburg and Newcastle.
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Free State: Widespread thundershowers developing later in the day, particularly over Bloemfontein and Welkom.
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North West: Thunderstorms with the potential for strong wind gusts and hail.
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Northern Cape (northern parts): Cloudy with isolated thunderstorms, gradually clearing overnight.
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Mpumalanga (Highveld): Heavy rainfall and isolated hailstorms likely, with temperatures dropping slightly due to the passing cold front.
The SA Weather Service has advised residents and local authorities to remain vigilant and prepare for sudden weather changes.
In its advisory, SAWS highlighted the importance of staying informed through reliable communication channels. Citizens are encouraged to regularly check weather updates on the official SA Weather Service website, follow SAWS social media pages, and tune into local radio broadcasts for the latest alerts.
Thobela also emphasized community awareness, stating:
“People must take these warnings seriously. Even short-lived thunderstorms can cause significant damage. We encourage everyone to plan their activities carefully and remain indoors when lightning is observed.”
Emergency services across affected provinces have been placed on standby to respond to weather-related incidents, including possible rescues in flood-prone areas.
To minimize risks during severe thunderstorms, the SA Weather Service recommends the following precautions:
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Avoid open areas and tall structures during lightning activity.
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Unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage from power surges.
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Stay indoors until the storm has completely passed.
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Do not drive through flooded roads or low-lying bridges.
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Keep emergency numbers handy and monitor local weather bulletins regularly.
By adhering to these guidelines, residents can protect themselves and their property while helping emergency responders focus on critical situations.
The SA Weather Service continues to monitor the evolving system and will issue further updates as necessary. With the potential for flooding, hail, and damaging winds, the public is reminded to stay informed and exercise caution.
While the storms are expected to bring much-needed rainfall to drought-affected regions, they also pose significant risks. Preparedness and awareness remain key to ensuring safety during this period of unstable weather.
As the SA Weather Service reiterates, South Africans should remain alert, prioritize safety, and take all weather warnings seriously — because even moderate thunderstorms can escalate quickly into dangerous events.
Source- EWN