Holidaymakers travelling back home after the festive season are urged to take note of SA Weather warnings, as severe conditions are expected to increase the risk of road accidents. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued significant alerts, highlighting the potential for disruptive weather across Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.
Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall
The SAWS has announced a yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. These storms could result in:
- Flooded roads and settlements
- Displacement of communities
- Damage to both formal and informal structures
- Large amounts of small hail and damaging winds
Additionally, a yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rainfall is in effect for Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal. This rainfall may lead to:
- Flooding in low-lying areas and bridges
- Damage to infrastructure
- Travel disruptions in the central and western parts of Limpopo, the escarpment areas of Mpumalanga, and the northeastern regions of KwaZulu-Natal
SA Weather Alert: Impact on Road Safety
The national Department of Transport has urged road users to exercise extreme caution, particularly as hazardous driving conditions are expected to persist through the week. Heavy rain, strong winds, and poor visibility will likely affect travel, increasing the risk of accidents.
Department spokesperson Collen Msibi emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “As the festive season draws to an end, road users must navigate these challenging conditions carefully to ensure their safety.”
Weather Timeline and Affected Routes
On Wednesday, January 8, severe weather is expected to peak, with poor visibility and slippery roads predicted across KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo. Strong thundershowers in Mpumalanga and Limpopo are forecast from the early hours until approximately 10:00.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), several key routes may be affected by these adverse conditions:
- Limpopo: N1, R101, N11, R33, R40, R524, R71, and R81
- Mpumalanga: N4 (Emalahleni to Johannesburg), N3 (Villiers to Heidelberg), N17 (Oshoek border to Johannesburg), and N4 (Lebombo border to Bronkhorstspruit)
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane highlighted potential hazards such as fog, slippery roads, and reduced visibility, particularly along major routes like the N1 and R101 between Limpopo and Gauteng.
Staying Safe Amid SA Weather Alerts
Motorists are advised to:
- Check SA Weather updates regularly for the latest information.
- Avoid traveling during peak weather warnings whenever possible.
- Ensure vehicles are in good condition, with properly functioning wipers and headlights.
- Maintain safe following distances and reduce speed in poor visibility.
While the SAWS has not issued additional warnings for Thursday and Friday, the possibility of residual weather impacts remains. Travellers are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritise safety.
Stay tuned to local news and official weather updates for further developments regarding this SA Weather Alert. By taking the necessary precautions, motorists can help mitigate the risks posed by these severe weather conditions.
Also read: Today’s Weather Forecast – 08 January 2025
