SA Weather Alert: Severe Thunderstorms, Damaging Winds, and Extreme Conditions Expected

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a critical weather forecast for Thursday, 14 November 2024, highlighting severe conditions that may affect various regions across the country. The weather will bring a combination of thunderstorms, strong winds, flooding, and potentially dangerous sea conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about the weather alerts and what to expect in your area.

Severe Thunderstorms and Localized Flooding

The SA Weather Service has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms expected to impact parts of the Free State, North West, and Northern Cape. These storms are expected to bring localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, roads, and bridges, which could cause traffic disruptions. Property and infrastructure may also suffer damage due to strong winds, with the potential for small hail.

The worst-hit areas are expected to include the western and central regions of the Free State and North West, as well as the extreme north-eastern parts of the Northern Cape. In addition to the severe storms, these areas are likely to experience strong winds, making navigation hazardous for both land and sea transport. Local authorities are urging residents to take precautions, especially those in flood-prone areas.

Dangerous Sea Conditions

Along with the storms on land, the weather service has also issued warnings for damaging winds at sea. Small vessels, including kayaks, are at risk of capsizing between Alexander Bay and Cape Point during the early morning. Mariners are advised to exercise caution due to strong winds that could cause difficulty in navigation and even result in vessels taking on water.

Fire Danger Warnings

The extreme weather isn’t just limited to severe thunderstorms and winds; fire danger warnings have also been issued for certain areas. In the Northern Cape, regions such as Dawid Kruiper, Kai Igarib, and Joe Morolong municipalities, along with parts of the North West, face extreme fire conditions due to dry and windy weather. These areas are at high risk for wildfires, which could spread rapidly in hot, windy conditions.

Advisories for Uncomfortable Conditions

The SA Weather Service has issued advisories for extreme weather in certain regions. The interior of the West Coast District in the Western Cape and parts of the Namakwa District in the Northern Cape will experience harsh, uncomfortable conditions due to hot temperatures and strong winds.

Provincial Breakdown of Weather Conditions

Gauteng
Expect cloudy weather in the morning, followed by partly cloudy skies and cool to warm temperatures. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are likely throughout the day.

Mpumalanga
The region will see cloudy conditions, particularly in the east, with morning fog and drizzle along the escarpment. It will remain cool, with isolated showers and thunderstorms expected.

Limpopo
Cloudy weather with morning fog and drizzle is forecast for Limpopo, especially along the escarpment. As the day progresses, it will become partly cloudy and cool, with some showers and thunderstorms in the extreme southwest.

North West
Partly cloudy and warm conditions are expected, with isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms. These storms could be severe, particularly in the western areas of the province.

Free State
Morning fog patches are expected in the extreme east of the province. The rest of the day will be partly cloudy and cool to warm with scattered showers and thunderstorms, especially in the western regions.

Northern Cape
Cool-weather is expected along the coast, while the inland areas will experience warm to hot conditions. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are anticipated in the extreme east.

Western Cape
Western Cape residents will see partly cloudy conditions initially, with clear skies expected later in the day. It will be hot in many areas, with extreme temperatures expected in the West Coast District. The UV index will be extremely high, so it’s important to take precautions against sun exposure.

Eastern Cape
The western part of the Eastern Cape will experience cloudy weather, with cooler temperatures expected in the north. The eastern half will be cloudy and cool, with morning showers and rain south of the escarpment. It will become fine in the northwest in the afternoon.

KwaZulu-Natal
Morning fog in the southwestern interior will give way to cloudy and cool conditions, with scattered showers and rain in most areas. The northeast will remain drier with fewer showers.

What You Should Do

Given the expected severe weather conditions, residents in affected areas should take the necessary precautions:

• Avoid traveling through low-lying or flood-prone areas during thunderstorms.
• Secure loose objects outdoors to prevent damage from strong winds.
• Stay informed by checking the SA Weather Service for updates.
• If you are at sea, ensure your vessel is properly equipped and avoid going out in high winds.
• Take care in hot, dry conditions, and follow fire safety guidelines if you’re in a high-risk area.

With severe thunderstorms, flooding, and dangerous sea conditions forecasted for much of South Africa on 14 November, it’s essential to stay prepared. Keep a close watch on the weather in your area, especially if you’re in regions affected by the yellow-level warnings, and make sure you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, your property, and your loved ones from these extreme conditions. Stay safe!