Today’s Weather Alert
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather warning for Wednesday, 19 March 2025, highlighting the risk of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and extreme heat across multiple provinces. Motorists, residents, and farmers are urged to take necessary precautions as localised flooding, fire dangers, and dangerously high temperatures are expected in different parts of the country.
Weather Warnings for 19 March 2025
1. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
🔴 A Yellow Level 1 warning has been issued for the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
⚠️ Expected threats:
- Strong winds
- Heavy downpours
- Hail
- Excessive lightning
- Localised flooding (roads, settlements, and low-lying areas)
- Damage to infrastructure, property, and vehicles
2. Disruptive Rainfall Alerts
🚨 Southern Gauteng and parts of Mpumalanga face potential disruptive rainfall, with risks of:
- Flooded roads and homes
- Infrastructure damage
- Delays in travel and transport
Fire Danger Warnings 🔥
🔥 Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over:
- Western Cape (west and northeast)
- Northern Cape (coastal areas and adjacent interior)
Residents in these areas are advised to avoid open flames, burning waste, or using fire outdoors as dry conditions increase the risk of runaway fires.
Heatwave Alert 🌡️
The Alfred Nzo District in the Eastern Cape is set to experience a heatwave until Friday, 21 March. Residents should:
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure
- Seek cool, shaded areas
- Check on elderly individuals and pets
Extremely uncomfortable temperatures are also expected over:
- The interior and south-western coast of the Western Cape
- The south-western parts of the Northern Cape
Provincial Weather Forecast for 19 March
Gauteng 🌧️
- Cloudy and cool with scattered showers and thundershowers.
- Isolated showers expected in the northern regions.
Mpumalanga ⛅
- Morning fog along the escarpment, followed by cloudy and cool to warm conditions.
- Scattered showers and thundershowers expected.
Limpopo 🌦️
- Morning fog in some areas.
- Cloudy and cool to warm with isolated showers and thundershowers.
North West 🌤️
- Partly cloudy and warm with isolated showers and thundershowers in the central and eastern parts.
Free State ⛅
- Cloudy morning with fog patches along the Lesotho border.
- Partly cloudy and cool to warm.
- Scattered showers and thundershowers expected in the eastern regions.
Northern Cape ☀️
- Fine and warm to hot but very hot in western areas.
- Isolated thundershowers expected in the extreme west.
Western Cape 🔥
- Morning fog patches along the south coast.
- Fine and warm to hot, but extremely hot in the western coastal regions.
- Partly cloudy conditions expected in the southwest from the afternoon.
- UVB Sunburn Index: Very High – Sunscreen and protective clothing are advised.
Eastern Cape 🌡️
- Western Half: Fine and warm, hot over the interior.
- Eastern Half: Fine and warm, with evening fog along the Wild Coast.
KwaZulu-Natal ⛈️
- Morning fog inland, followed by cloudy and cool to warm conditions.
- Isolated showers and thundershowers, increasing in northern areas.
- Partly cloudy in the extreme south.
Safety Tips for Severe Weather Conditions
🚗 During heavy rainfall and flooding:
- Avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges.
- Drive slowly and keep headlights on for visibility.
- Stay updated with weather alerts and road closures.
🔥 During extreme heat:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11 AM – 3 PM).
- Wear light clothing and use sunscreen.
⚡ During thunderstorms:
- Stay indoors and unplug electrical appliances.
- Avoid open fields and large trees.
- If caught outside, crouch low to the ground to minimize risk.
The SAWS latest forecast highlights a mix of severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, fire dangers, and extreme heat across South Africa. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
Stay updated with the latest weather alerts and forecasts from SAWS to ensure your safety.
