Today’s Weather Alert
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert for Tuesday, 25 March 2025. Multiple provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Free State (FS), and the Eastern Cape (EC), are expected to experience severe thunderstorms. Additionally, strong winds along the Western Cape coast pose risks to sea navigation. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
Severe Weather Warnings Issued
Thunderstorm Warning – KZN, Free State, Eastern Cape
A Yellow Level 2 Warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms in:
- Southern KwaZulu-Natal
- Southern Free State
- Eastern half of the Eastern Cape
Potential Impacts:
- Localized flooding of roads, low-lying areas, and susceptible settlements
- Damage to property, vehicles, and infrastructure
- Disruptions to electricity supply due to lightning strikes
- Livestock and livelihood risks due to extreme weather conditions
Residents in these areas should take precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and secure outdoor furniture and structures.
Strong Wind Warning – Western Cape Coast
A Yellow Level 2 Warning has also been issued for damaging winds between Table Bay and Stillbaai. These winds could cause:
- Difficulty in navigation at sea
- Rough ocean conditions, posing a danger to small vessels
- Coastal property damage due to strong gusts
Advice for Mariners:
- Avoid unnecessary travel at sea
- Secure boats and marine equipment
- Stay updated on coastal weather changes
Provincial Weather Breakdown – 25 March 2025
Gauteng:
- Partly cloudy and warm
- Isolated showers and thundershowers
- UVB Sunburn Index: High
Mpumalanga:
- Morning fog along the escarpment
- Partly cloudy and cool to warm
- Isolated showers and thundershowers, except in the Lowveld (hot conditions expected)
Limpopo:
- Partly cloudy and warm to hot
North West:
- Partly cloudy and warm
- Isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers except in the northwest
Free State:
- Partly cloudy and warm
- Isolated showers and thundershowers, scattered in the south
Northern Cape:
- Partly cloudy and cool to warm
- Isolated showers and thundershowers over central and eastern areas, except the extreme northeast
- Windy over eastern parts
Western Cape:
- Cloudy and windy conditions
- Light rain over southwestern parts
- UVB Sunburn Index: High
Eastern Cape:
- Western half: Morning fog in the south, then partly cloudy and warm with isolated showers and thundershowers (scattered in the east)
- Eastern half: Morning fog south of the escarpment, then partly cloudy and warm with scattered showers and thundershowers (widespread in the east)
KwaZulu-Natal:
- Morning fog over the interior
- Partly cloudy and warm to hot
- Isolated showers and thundershowers except in the north (scattered in the south)
- UVB Sunburn Index: Extreme
Safety Tips for Severe Weather
- Avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms
- Secure loose items that may be blown away by strong winds
- Stay indoors and unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage from lightning
- If driving, reduce speed and increase following distance in wet conditions
- Stay informed through official weather updates from SAWS
Final Thoughts
Severe weather conditions across multiple provinces require vigilance. Whether facing thunderstorms or strong winds, taking precautions can prevent damage and ensure safety. Stay updated by following SAWS weather alerts and local authorities for the latest developments.
Stay safe, South Africa!