South Africa is currently experiencing a significant weather event with severe thunderstorms, extreme heat, and heightened fire dangers affecting several regions. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for Thursday, 5 December 2024, highlighting the potential risks posed by this extreme weather. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared.
Weather Warnings for 5 December 2024
Impact-Based Warnings
SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms. The northeastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal are expected to face damaging winds, heavy downpours, excessive lightning, and hail. These conditions could lead to flooding, infrastructure damage, and potential injuries.
Other areas at risk include:
- Southern KwaZulu-Natal
- Eastern and Central Eastern Cape
- Southern Escarpment of Mpumalanga
These regions could experience localized damages to property, vehicles, and even livestock due to intense thunderstorms.
Fire Danger Warning
High fire danger conditions are forecast for:
- North West Province
- Eastern Northern Cape
- Western Free State
- Northern Limpopo and Mpumalanga Lowveld
- Northeastern Western Cape
Residents in these areas are urged to avoid any activities that could ignite fires, as dry conditions and high winds could rapidly escalate the risk.
Heatwave Advisory
A persistent heatwave will grip Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, and northern KwaZulu-Natal until at least Friday. In particular, the Lowveld regions of Limpopo and Mpumalanga will face extreme temperatures, making outdoor activities potentially dangerous.
Regional Weather Forecasts
Gauteng
Residents should prepare for partly cloudy, very hot weather with isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon, particularly in the southeast. The UVB sunburn index is high, so sunscreen and protective clothing are essential.
Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga will experience fine, hot to very hot weather, especially in the Lowveld, with scattered showers and thundershowers developing later in the day.
Limpopo
The province will see partly cloudy and very hot conditions, with extreme heat in the Lowveld and Limpopo Valley. Afternoon thundershowers are expected, except in the Lowveld and northern areas.
North West
North West will face hot and windy conditions with isolated showers and thundershowers later in the day.
Free State
Partly cloudy, windy, and warm to hot weather is expected, with isolated thundershowers developing across the region.
Northern Cape
Coastal areas will be partly cloudy, while the interior remains warm to hot. Cooler conditions will prevail in the extreme western parts of the province.
Western Cape
Cloudy weather with morning rain is expected over the southwestern regions, followed by partly cloudy, cool to warm conditions. UVB sunburn risk remains extreme.
Eastern Cape
Both halves of the Eastern Cape will experience morning fog and drizzle. The western half will be warm to hot with scattered thunderstorms, while the eastern half will see cloudy, warm weather with isolated thundershowers.
KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal will have a mix of morning fog and warm to very hot conditions, especially in the northern areas. Scattered thunderstorms are anticipated throughout the region.
Safety Tips for Severe Weather
- Thunderstorms:
- Avoid open fields, tall trees, and metal objects during lightning.
- Secure loose items around your home that could be affected by strong winds.
- Heatwaves:
- Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly.
- Fire Danger:
- Refrain from lighting open fires or discarding cigarette butts in dry areas.
- Have an evacuation plan ready if you live near wildfire-prone areas.
Severe weather across South Africa demands vigilance and preparedness. Whether facing thunderstorms, heatwaves, or fire risks, understanding the forecast and taking precautions can make all the difference. Stay updated with the SA Weather Service for real-time alerts and prioritize safety during these challenging conditions.
Related article: Today’s Weather Forecast – 05 December 2024
