Today’s Weather Update
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert for Wednesday, 5 March 2025. Several provinces, including Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Northern Cape, will experience heavy thunderstorms, while regions in the Northern and Western Cape face extremely high fire danger.
Here’s what you need to know about today’s weather forecast and how it may affect you.
Severe Weather Warnings for 5 March 2025
Thunderstorm Alert (Yellow Level 2 Warning)
SAWS has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in:
- Mpumalanga (Escarpment region)
- Northwestern KwaZulu-Natal
- Southeastern Northern Cape
⚠️ Expected weather hazards:
- Heavy rain leading to localized flooding on roads and settlements
- Strong winds capable of damaging infrastructure
- Excessive lightning
- Hailstorms in some areas
Residents in these regions should avoid unnecessary travel and ensure their homes and vehicles are protected from storm damage.
Fire Danger Warnings
🔥 Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected in:
- Central Northern Cape
- Cederberg Local Municipality, Western Cape
Given the dry conditions and high temperatures, outdoor fires should be avoided, and residents must be cautious with flammable materials.
Provincial Weather Forecast for 5 March 2025
Here’s what you can expect in your province today:
Gauteng
🌤️ Cloudy and warm with scattered showers and thundershowers.
Mpumalanga
🌫️ Morning fog along the escarpment, then cloudy and warm with scattered thunderstorms, except in the Lowveld, where it will be hot and partly cloudy.
Limpopo
⛅ Cloudy to partly cloudy with warm to hot conditions. Expect isolated thunderstorms over the central and western parts.
North West
🌥️ Partly cloudy and warm, with isolated thundershowers expected.
Free State
🌫️ Morning fog in the east, then partly cloudy and warm with isolated thunderstorms.
Northern Cape
🌫️ Fog along the coast in the morning, then partly cloudy and warm to hot.
🌩️ Scattered thunderstorms in the southeast, while the west will be clear by late afternoon.
Western Cape
🌫️ Morning fog along the coastal areas, then fine and warm to hot.
🌩️ Isolated thunderstorms expected in the extreme east.
☀️ UVB index: Extreme – Wear sunscreen and limit sun exposure.
Eastern Cape (Western Half)
🌫️ Cloudy and cool along the coast, hot inland.
🌩️ Scattered thunderstorms in the central west and northwest.
Eastern Cape (Eastern Half)
🌫️ Morning fog, then partly cloudy and warm.
🌩️ Scattered thunderstorms in the northeast, spreading to East London’s western coast.
KwaZulu-Natal
🌫️ Morning fog over the interior, then partly cloudy and warm to hot.
🌩️ Scattered thunderstorms in the west.
☀️ UVB index: High – Take necessary sun protection measures.
Safety Precautions for Severe Weather
✅ For Thunderstorms:
- Avoid low-lying flood-prone areas.
- Stay indoors and away from windows during lightning storms.
- Unplug electrical appliances to avoid power surges.
🔥 For Fire Danger Areas:
- Do not start open fires in affected regions.
- Avoid discarding cigarette butts outdoors.
- If you see a fire, report it immediately to local emergency services.
☀️ For Extreme Heat and UV Exposure:
- Stay hydrated.
- Wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
- Limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours.
Final Thoughts
South Africans should remain vigilant as severe weather conditions impact multiple provinces. Whether facing thunderstorms, strong winds, or fire risks, being prepared and cautious is crucial.
For real-time updates, follow SAWS and local emergency services. Stay safe and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property.
Stay informed and share this update to keep others aware of today’s severe weather!
