South Africa is bracing for a turbulent weather week as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issues multiple warnings for severe thunderstorms, scorching heatwaves, and dangerous coastal conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the latest weather forecast for Wednesday, 27 November 2024, and what it means for various regions.
Severe Thunderstorms in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng
The SAWS has issued Yellow Level 4 and Yellow Level 2 warnings for KwaZulu-Natal, signaling severe thunderstorms with potential heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning, and hail.
- KwaZulu-Natal Forecast:
- Northeastern areas face the highest risk, with widespread thunderstorms likely to disrupt daily life.
- Other parts of KZN are also under threat, with scattered storms capable of causing localized flooding and damage to infrastructure.
Gauteng is also on alert for thunderstorms, although the intensity is expected to be milder compared to KZN.
- Gauteng Forecast:
- Partly cloudy skies will dominate, with scattered showers and thundershowers anticipated.
- Pretoria’s temperatures will range from 19°C to 32°C, while Johannesburg will experience a high of 29°C.
Impact of Thunderstorms
- Flash flooding in low-lying areas.
- Disruption to traffic and power supply.
- Hail damage to crops, vehicles, and properties.
Heatwave in Mpumalanga
Residents of Mpumalanga should prepare for extreme heat as a heatwave grips the Lowveld region. Persistently high temperatures are expected to create uncomfortable and potentially dangerous conditions.
- Mpumalanga Forecast:
- Scorching temperatures with highs exceeding 35°C in some areas.
- Afternoon thundershowers may offer brief relief, but the heatwave will dominate the region.
Health Advisory:
- Stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
- Use sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn.
Fire Danger in Limpopo and Northern Cape
A fire danger warning has been issued for parts of Limpopo and the Northern Cape, where extremely high temperatures and dry conditions pose a risk for wildfires.
Preventive Measures
- Avoid open flames and discard cigarette butts responsibly.
- Farmers and rural communities should be vigilant and report any signs of wildfire immediately.
Coastal Warnings: Damaging Waves Expected
A Yellow Level 1 warning has been issued for the coastal areas between Cape Columbine and East London, with waves strong enough to disrupt harbors and coastal roads.
Coastal Region Highlights:
- Western Cape: Cool and cloudy with scattered rain along the south coast.
- Eastern Cape: Cloudy and cold conditions are expected, particularly along the Wild Coast.
Maritime Advisory:
- Small vessels are advised to avoid venturing into the sea as capsizing risks are elevated.
- Coastal communities should monitor updates and avoid low-lying beach areas.
Provincial Weather Highlights
Northern Cape:
- Fine in the east, partly cloudy elsewhere, with warm to hot conditions.
North-West Province:
- Warm to hot with isolated showers in most areas.
Free State:
- Fine in the west, isolated thunderstorms in the east.
The weather across South Africa on 27 November 2024 will be intense, with severe thunderstorms, dangerous heatwaves, and hazardous coastal conditions dominating the forecast. Residents in affected areas should remain vigilant, follow safety advisories, and stay updated through official weather channels.
Stay Safe, Stay Prepared!
