Today’s Weather Alerts for Gauteng & Surrounding Provinces: Severe Storms, Floods, and Fire Warnings

Today’s Weather Alerts

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued critical weather alerts for Thursday, 16 January 2025, highlighting severe thunderstorms, potential flooding, and extreme fire risks in several provinces. These warnings demand attention and preparation to mitigate potential risks.

Severe Storms and Flood Risks

Gauteng, North West, Free State, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga face yellow level two warnings for severe thunderstorms. Heavy rain, hail, strong winds, and excessive lightning could lead to localized flooding, infrastructure damage, and disrupted travel.

Key risks include:

• Flooded roads and settlements.
• Infrastructure damage.
• Increased risk of accidents due to poor visibility.

Residents are advised to avoid low-lying areas, secure loose objects, and limit unnecessary travel during the storms.

Fire Danger Conditions

Extremely high fire risks are anticipated in the Northern Cape, specifically Tsantsabane and Gamagara municipalities. Warm, dry, and windy conditions create a perfect storm for wildfires. Residents should avoid open flames, adhere to fire safety guidelines, and report any fire outbreaks immediately.

Provincial Weather Highlights

• Gauteng: Partly cloudy, warm in the north, with scattered showers and thunderstorms.
• Mpumalanga: Cloudy, cool to warm, with isolated thunderstorms, more scattered in the west.
• Limpopo: Partly cloudy, warm, with scattered thunderstorms in the southwest.
• North West: Warm to hot, windy, with scattered showers and isolated storms in the west.
• Free State: Warm to hot, windy, with scattered storms in the east.
• Northern Cape: Warm to hot, windy, and dry.
• Western Cape: Cool to warm along the southern coastline; fine and hot inland.
• Eastern Cape: Cloudy with light rain along the coast, warm inland, with fog in the evening.
• KwaZulu-Natal: Cloudy and cool with isolated showers.

Precautionary Measures

1. For Severe Storms:
   • Avoid crossing flooded roads or rivers.
   • Keep emergency kits and flashlights ready.
   • Monitor local weather updates for real-time changes.
2. For Fire Risks:
   • Avoid starting outdoor fires.
   • Stay indoors if air quality worsens due to smoke.
   • Report any signs of wildfires to authorities.

Stay Prepared and Informed

With heavy downpours, hail, and potential fire outbreaks, preparedness is crucial. Stay tuned to SAWS updates and local advisories to navigate these challenging weather conditions safely.