SA Weather Alert
South Africans are urged to brace themselves as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms and extreme fire danger conditions across various provinces. These weather alerts could bring excessive lightning, heavy downpours, and a heightened risk of fires in some regions.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect on Tuesday, 4 March 2025 and how to stay safe during these adverse conditions.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning – What You Need to Know
SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for thunderstorms that could result in excessive lightning, heavy downpours, and possible localised flooding. The affected areas include:
- Northern Cape: Southern high ground of Namakwa District
- Western Cape: Beaufort West and Prince Albert
- Free State: Southern regions
- KwaZulu-Natal: Western parts
- Mpumalanga: Southern escarpment
- Eastern Cape: Northern parts
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms pose significant risks, such as flooding, power outages, and damage to infrastructure. Motorists are advised to drive cautiously due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
How to Stay Safe During Thunderstorms
- Avoid open fields and tall trees: These attract lightning strikes.
- Unplug electronic devices: To prevent damage from power surges.
- Stay indoors: If possible, remain inside and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Monitor local weather updates: Keep an eye on emergency warnings.
Extreme Fire Danger Alert – High Risk for Several Provinces
In addition to thunderstorms, SAWS has also issued fire danger warnings for the following regions:
- Northern Cape: Most of the central interior
- Western Cape: Western parts
- Eastern Cape: Western areas
These areas face extremely high fire danger conditions, meaning that any small flame could quickly escalate into a devastating wildfire. Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution when dealing with open flames, such as braais, campfires, or discarded cigarette butts.
Fire Safety Tips
- Avoid making fires outdoors.
- Do not discard cigarette butts in dry grass or open areas.
- Have an emergency plan in case of a fire outbreak.
- Report any fires to local authorities immediately.
Provincial Weather Forecast for 4 March 2025
Gauteng
- Cloudy and warm.
- Isolated showers and thundershowers expected.
Mpumalanga
- Morning drizzle and fog patches.
- Cloudy and cool to warm.
- Scattered showers along the escarpment, isolated elsewhere.
Limpopo
- Morning drizzle and fog patches along the escarpment.
- Partly cloudy and warm.
- Cloudy in the south with isolated showers and thundershowers.
North West
- Cloudy conditions with isolated showers and thundershowers, except in the north.
Free State
- Cloudy to partly cloudy and warm.
- Isolated showers and thundershowers, scattered in the south.
Northern Cape
- Fine in the far west.
- Partly cloudy and warm to hot.
- Isolated showers and thundershowers in the central and eastern parts, scattered in the southeast.
Western Cape
- Morning fog along the west and southwest coast.
- Partly cloudy and cool to warm, hot in the east and northeast.
- Isolated showers and thundershowers in the east and southeast, scattered in the extreme northeast.
- UVB sunburn index: High – precaution against sun exposure advised.
Eastern Cape (Western Half)
- Partly cloudy to cloudy and hot.
- Scattered showers and thundershowers, but isolated along the coast.
Eastern Cape (Eastern Half)
- Cloudy with morning fog south of the escarpment.
- Warm to hot conditions.
- Scattered showers and thundershowers, isolated along the coast.
KwaZulu-Natal
- Morning fog patches.
- Partly cloudy and warm, hot in the northeast.
- Isolated showers and thundershowers, scattered in the west.
The latest severe weather warnings highlight the need for vigilance and preparedness across South Africa. Whether facing intense thunderstorms or extreme fire risks, residents must take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Stay updated with official SAWS alerts and emergency broadcasts, and be proactive in reducing risks associated with this extreme weather.
