Today’s Weather Alert
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 2 weather warning for severe thunderstorms expected to hit KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Mpumalanga on Thursday, 30 January 2025. Residents in these provinces should prepare for potentially damaging weather conditions, including heavy rain, hail, strong winds, and severe lightning.
Impact-Based Weather Warning for KZN & Mpumalanga
According to SAWS, the western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the southeastern regions of Mpumalanga are at the highest risk. The forecast warns of localized flooding, infrastructure damage, and travel disruptions due to heavy downpours. Motorists and residents in low-lying areas should take extra precautions.
Potential impacts of the thunderstorms include:
✅ Flash floods in urban and rural areas
✅ Damage to buildings, power lines, and trees
✅ Dangerous lightning strikes
✅ Disruptions to travel and outdoor activities
Provincial Weather Forecast for 30 January 2025
KwaZulu-Natal:
- Morning fog patches in the interior
- Partly cloudy and warm to hot temperatures
- Scattered thunderstorms in the west, while the coast and adjacent interior will experience isolated showers
- UVB Index: High – Sun protection is advised
Mpumalanga:
- Isolated to scattered thunderstorms, with higher intensity expected in the southeastern areas
- Partly cloudy and warm conditions, but hot in the Lowveld
Gauteng:
- Partly cloudy, warm to hot conditions
- Isolated showers and thundershowers, except in the southwest
- UVB Index: Very High – Stay hydrated and use sun protection
Limpopo:
- Partly cloudy and hot conditions
- Isolated showers and thunderstorms in the south-central regions
North West & Free State:
- Hot to very hot weather with partly cloudy skies
- Isolated thunderstorms in the extreme west of North West
- Scattered thunderstorms in the southern Free State
Western Cape & Northern Cape:
- Cloudy and cool in the southwest with isolated showers
- Very hot conditions in the northeastern parts of the Northern Cape
- Fire danger risk remains high
Eastern Cape:
- Western half: Scattered thunderstorms, but isolated in the south
- Eastern half: Partly cloudy, warm, with scattered thunderstorms, except in the southwest
Precautionary Measures for Residents
⚠️ Avoid traveling during heavy downpours unless necessary
⚠️ Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid tall trees or open fields
⚠️ Secure loose outdoor items to prevent wind damage
⚠️ Drive cautiously and avoid flooded roads
⚠️ Keep emergency supplies and contact details on hand
Final Thoughts
With severe thunderstorms expected in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, residents should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. The SAWS forecast indicates that storms could lead to localized flooding and infrastructure damage, emphasizing the need for preparedness.
For real-time updates, stay tuned to local weather channels and official SAWS alerts. Stay safe and weather-ready!
