The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an urgent update for Friday, 11 July 2025, highlighting rough seas and a strong cold front affecting much of the Cape coastline. As rough seas & Cold Weather Forecasted for Cape regions, coastal communities and inland towns should prepare for dangerous conditions, including heavy rain, damaging waves, and icy temperatures.
ALSO READ: Severe Weather Alert: Winds in KZN & Fire Danger in Northern Cape
Cape Storm Warning: Rough Seas from Northern to Eastern Cape
SAWS marine weather advisory has issued yellow level 1 and 2 warnings for damaging waves between Hondeklip Bay (Northern Cape) and Hamburg (Eastern Cape), including Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape. These conditions are expected to last until Saturday, 12 July, with rough seas and high winds making navigation extremely risky.
“Small vessels are at risk of capsizing, and disruptions to local ports and harbors are likely,” SAWS warned in its latest weather warning.
This coastal weather in South Africa has prompted marine authorities to urge boat owners and fishermen to stay off the water and monitor updates on SAWS official channels.
Cold Front Hits Northern and Western Cape
With Rough Seas & Cold Weather Forecasted for Cape Regions, the inland areas are not being spared. A cold front in South Africa is sweeping across parts of the Northern Cape’s Namakwa District, bringing very cold, wet, and windy conditions.
The Western Cape weather update includes alerts for Witzenberg, Breede Valley, and the Koue Bokkeveld, where temperatures are expected to plummet, accompanied by isolated showers and strong wind gusts.
Eastern Cape Rain Prediction and Foggy Starts
Rain is expected to make landfall in parts of the Eastern Cape, particularly in the south. According to SAWS’s weather warning, the western half of the province will experience foggy mornings, turning into cloudy, cool to cold weather with isolated rainfall.
The eastern half will see partly cloudy skies and cool to warm temperatures, with rain south of the escarpment.
This Eastern Cape rain prediction could cause delays in travel and reduce visibility on rural and regional roads.
Weather Forecast for All Provinces, Friday, 11 July 2025
Here’s a snapshot of what to expect around South Africa:
Gauteng
- Fine and cool, cold in some areas.
Mpumalanga
- Fine and cool to warm.
Limpopo
- Mostly fine and cool, with warmer spots in the Lowveld and Limpopo Valley.
North West
- Fine and cool throughout.
Free State
- Cool to cold, becoming partly cloudy and windy in the far east.
KwaZulu-Natal
- Fine and cool to warm, partly cloudy in the south.
- UVB sunburn index: Very high sunscreen and sun protection recommended.
Northern Cape
- Partly cloudy and windy, cool to cold in most areas; fine and warm in the far north.
Western Cape
- Cloudy with scattered showers in the southwest, cold with isolated rain elsewhere.
Weather Impact on Cape Agriculture and Travel
The weather’s impact on Cape agriculture could be significant. Farmers in the Northern and Western Cape are advised to secure livestock and shelter crops as wet and windy conditions take hold. Strong wind and rain could damage young produce and increase disease risks in fruiting plants.
Travelers in the Cape Town region and surrounding municipalities should expect disruptions on coastal roads, especially where fog or heavy rain reduces visibility.
Port Disruption Warning for Marine Industries
The Cape storm warning is especially critical for the marine industry. Harbors in Cape Town, Saldanha Bay, and Port Elizabeth could see delays due to damaging waves and strong wind conditions.
Fishing operations may be suspended temporarily as part of safety measures. Tour operators, especially those offering ocean tours or ferry services, are encouraged to monitor the marine forecasts.
Safety Tips During Severe Weather in South Africa
With rough seas & cold weather forecasted for Cape regions, here are some practical safety tips:
- Avoid beach or sea activities, especially if you’re using a small boat.
- Dress in warm layers, especially in the Namakwa District, Witzenberg, and surrounding highlands.
- Drive with caution, especially in foggy or rain-affected areas of the Eastern Cape and Western Cape.
- Monitor reliable sources like SAWS and local municipalities for updates.
CHECK OUT: Today’s Weather Forecast – 11 July 2025
Why This Weather Alert Matters
As rough seas & Cold Weather Forecasted for Cape regions, this cold front is not just another winter system—it brings real risks to safety, agriculture, tourism, and daily life. Whether you’re in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, or rural farming areas, being informed and prepared is key.
Residents are encouraged to check hourly updates, use emergency services responsibly, and follow all official guidance during this winter storm in South Africa.
