Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Flooding Risks in Four Provinces

SAWA Alert: Thunderstorms and Flooding Risks

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather warning for Friday, 27 December 2024, highlighting risks of thunderstorms and flooding in parts of the North West, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. Residents in these regions are advised to prepare for potential disruptions and prioritize safety.

Weather Warnings and Alerts

SAWS has released a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms, which could result in localized flooding in vulnerable areas such as roads, low-lying zones, and bridges. Additionally, large amounts of small hail are expected in:

• Western North West
• Northeastern and Southeastern Northern Cape
• Southwestern KwaZulu-Natal
• Eastern Cape

These storms are accompanied by isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers over the central and eastern regions of the country.

Provincial Breakdown of the Weather Forecast

1. North West
Partly cloudy skies with isolated showers and thundershowers are expected, with scattered activity in the extreme west. Residents are urged to monitor water levels on roads and avoid crossing flooded areas.

2. Northern Cape
The morning will bring cloudy conditions with light rain along the west coast. The central and eastern regions will experience warm to hot weather, accompanied by scattered showers and thunderstorms.

3. Eastern Cape

• Western half: Expect partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with warm to hot temperatures. Scattered showers and thundershowers will occur, with isolated showers along the coastline.
• Eastern half: Warm to hot conditions are predicted, with scattered showers and thundershowers across the region.

4. KwaZulu-Natal
Morning fog patches over the eastern interior will clear to reveal partly cloudy skies. The region will experience warm to hot weather, with isolated showers and thundershowers. Northern areas may face very hot conditions.

Potential Impacts of Severe Weather

• Localized Flooding:
  Heavy rainfall may overwhelm drainage systems, leading to hazardous driving conditions. Low-lying areas and bridges are particularly vulnerable.
• Hail Damage:
  The forecast warns of small hail, which can damage crops, vehicles, and property.
• Travel Disruptions:
  Reduced visibility and slippery roads may cause delays. Motorists are advised to drive cautiously and avoid flooded roads.

Safety Precautions

To ensure safety during severe weather, residents should:

1. Monitor Alerts: Stay updated on weather warnings through the SAWS website or social media channels.
2. Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not attempt to drive or walk through flooded roads or bridges.
3. Secure Property: Protect vehicles and outdoor belongings from potential hail damage.
4. Prepare for Power Outages: Keep emergency supplies like flashlights and batteries ready in case of disruptions.

UVB Sunburn Index and Precautions

While thunderstorms dominate the forecast, sunny conditions are still expected in some regions. Provinces like Gauteng, Limpopo, and the Western Cape report a “very high” to “extreme” UVB sunburn index. Residents are advised to:

• Wear sunscreen with high SPF.
• Use protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Stay Informed and Prepared

With severe weather forecast for 27 December 2024, vigilance and preparedness are crucial. Keep an eye on weather updates, follow guidance from local authorities, and prioritize safety during this period.

For more details, visit the SAWS website or follow their official social media channels for real-time updates.

Stay safe, South Africa!