South Africans are waking up to today’s weather alert issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), warning of heightened fire risks in parts of the Northern and Western Cape. At the same time, much of the country is experiencing cooler-than-usual temperatures for this time of year. These weather patterns are expected to continue through the rest of the week, raising both safety and preparedness concerns across several provinces.
ALSO READ: Today’s Weather Forecast – 15 May 2025
SAWS Issues High Fire Danger Warnings in Northern & Western Cape
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has placed today’s weather alert on high priority, highlighting extremely high fire danger conditions in areas of the Northern Cape and Western Cape. According to SAWS, municipalities including Nama Khoi, Kamiesberg, and Richtersveld are among the hardest hit in the Northern Cape. In the Western Cape, fire alerts have been raised for the Cape Winelands, Central Karoo, and West Coast regions.
“Under these conditions, fires may develop and spread rapidly, resulting in damage to property and possible loss of human or animal life,” SAWS warned in its official bulletin.
Residents are urged to avoid open flames, report any signs of smoke immediately, and refrain from outdoor activities that could ignite a blaze—such as burning garden waste or lighting campfires.
What’s Causing the Fire Danger?
The fire risks are being fuelled by a combination of dry vegetation, low humidity, and strong berg winds—a notorious fire accelerator in South African climate conditions.
Berg winds are dry, hot winds that blow from the interior towards the coast. They drastically reduce humidity and increase temperatures, creating a “perfect storm” for runaway wildfires. These conditions are expected to persist for at least the next 48 hours in the affected regions.
Cooler Temperatures Blanket the Rest of the Country
While the western parts of the country face the heat, today’s weather alert also includes a different picture for the rest of South Africa—notably cooler weather.
- Johannesburg is recording maximum daytime temperatures around 18–19°C, with cool breezes making it feel even chillier.
- Durban is slightly cooler than its usual average, sitting at 22–23°C, according to Weather25.
- Bloemfontein and parts of the Free State are reporting frosty mornings and mild afternoons.
This drop in temperature is attributed to a cold front that passed over the southern regions earlier in the week, now settling into the interior and Highveld areas.
Damaging Winds and Coastal Warnings
In addition to fire alerts and cooler conditions, today’s weather alert includes yellow level 4 warnings for damaging winds and high seas along the south-western coast between Table Bay and Plettenberg Bay.
According to the official SAWS forecast:
“Strong to gale-force south-easterly winds along the coast, with wave heights reaching 4–6 metres, may pose a threat to small vessels and cause damage to infrastructure in coastal settlements.”
— SAWS
Coastal residents and maritime operators are advised to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel or fishing expeditions until the warnings are lifted.
Safety Tips During a Weather Alert
In light of today’s weather alert, here are a few practical safety tips from emergency services and environmental experts:
Fire Safety
- Avoid any form of open flame outdoors.
- Keep emergency numbers handy.
- Ensure your property is clear of dry grass or flammable debris.
Cold Weather Precautions
- Dress in layers to manage temperature changes.
- Keep heaters safe and away from flammable materials.
- Check on elderly neighbours or family members who may be vulnerable.
Coastal and Wind Safety
- Secure loose items outdoors.
- Avoid beachfronts or harbours during peak wind periods.
- Follow advisories from local disaster management authorities.
Final Thoughts
Today’s weather alert serves as a reminder of the dynamic and sometimes dangerous nature of South Africa’s climate. From fire hazards in the Cape to cool autumn days inland, the need for preparedness cannot be overstated.
Authorities are closely monitoring conditions, and South Africans are encouraged to stay informed via trusted sources like the South African Weather Service and News24. Whether you’re battling the dry heat in the Karoo or wrapping up warm in Gauteng, staying updated on weather warnings is crucial for your safety and peace of mind.
Stay safe, stay informed—and keep an eye on today’s weather alert.
