Today’s Weather Alert

    The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued critical weather warnings for several provinces across South Africa on Friday, January 10, 2025. Severe thunderstorms are expected to bring damaging winds, heavy downpours, and excessive lightning to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Free State, and Mpumalanga, while the Eastern Cape continues to experience a heatwave with dangerously high temperatures. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and prepared.

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    Impact-Based Warnings for Severe Thunderstorms

    A Yellow Level 2 warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms in:

    • KwaZulu-Natal: Western regions, including AbaQulusi, Ladysmith, Newcastle, and surrounding areas.
    • Free State: Extreme eastern areas.
    • Mpumalanga: Highveld regions.

    These storms may result in:

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    • Localized flooding of roads and low-lying areas.
    • Damage to infrastructure, vehicles, and livestock.
    • Disruptions to essential services due to heavy rains and strong winds.

    Residents are urged to stay indoors, avoid traveling on flooded roads or bridges, and keep pets and vehicles in sheltered areas. Lightning poses a severe risk, and outdoor activities should be avoided.

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    Fire Danger Warnings

    Extremely high fire danger conditions are forecasted for parts of the central and eastern interior of the Northern Cape. Residents in these areas should avoid starting open fires and ensure that fire safety precautions are in place.

    Heatwave Alert for the Eastern Cape

    The central interior of the Eastern Cape is under a heatwave advisory, with persistently high temperatures expected to last until Saturday. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to heat-related illnesses. Residents are advised to:

    • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
    • Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
    • Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.

    Provincial Weather Forecasts

    KwaZulu-Natal

    Morning fog patches will give way to partly cloudy and warm conditions, with hot weather in the north. Scattered showers and thundershowers are expected in the west. The Newcastle Municipality has reported localized flooding, leading to the closure of Umfolozi Avenue near Amcor Dam. Residents are encouraged to report further incidents to local authorities.

    Free State

    Partly cloudy and warm to hot weather is predicted, with isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms, particularly in central and eastern regions.

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    Mpumalanga

    Cloudy conditions will dominate, with scattered showers and thunderstorms expected in the Highveld. The Lowveld will experience hot temperatures with isolated showers.

    Eastern Cape

    The western region will see cloudy to partly cloudy weather, with fine and warm conditions in the north. The eastern region faces partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with hot weather and isolated showers expected.

    Gauteng

    Cool to warm conditions with isolated showers and thundershowers are forecasted, becoming scattered in the northern areas.

    Safety Precautions

    To minimize risks, residents in affected areas should:

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    • Monitor local weather updates and heed warnings from SAWS.
    • Prepare emergency kits with essentials such as water, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
    • Secure outdoor furniture and other items that may become hazardous in strong winds.

    Municipal Assistance in Flooded Areas

    The Newcastle Local Municipality has mobilized resources to assist residents affected by flooding. Over 32 households have been impacted, with 12 structures destroyed and 57 partially damaged. Relief efforts are underway to provide support and restore infrastructure.

    Residents in flood-affected areas are encouraged to report incidents to the Newcastle Disaster Management Office via the provided emergency numbers: 079 442 4489 / 063 257 8624.

    With severe weather events expected to continue, vigilance and preparation are essential. Whether you are on the path of thunderstorms, in high fire danger zones, or enduring the heatwave, taking proactive measures can ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

    Stay tuned for more updates and follow SAWS’ guidelines to navigate this challenging weather safely.

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