Yellow Level 2 Warning: Damaging Waves, Cold Weather, and Showers Expected

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 Warning for Friday, 18 July 2025. This warning includes damaging waves, cold weather, and widespread showers expected across several parts of the country.

People living in coastal and inland regions are urged to prepare for disruptive weather conditions that could affect daily life, transport, and infrastructure. The Yellow Level 2 Warning is a precautionary alert, meaning the weather could have a moderate impact if not taken seriously.

CHECK OUT: Today’s Weather Forecast – 18 July 2025

Coastal Areas: Damaging Waves Expected

The coastline between Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape is expected to experience damaging waves. These high waves may lead to:

• Disruptions in small harbours and ports
• Localised flooding in low-lying coastal areas
• Dangerous conditions for fishing, swimming, and boating
• Risk of injuries from waves crashing over rocks and walkways

The Yellow Level 2 Warning advises residents and tourists to stay away from the shore during this time. Recreational activities such as surfing, fishing from rocks, or walking close to the water are not recommended.

Cold Weather to Grip the Interior

Inland provinces like Gauteng, Free State, and Mpumalanga will experience very cold temperatures. A cold front is moving in, causing daytime temperatures to drop and nights to become even colder.

This sudden change in weather could lead to:

• Health risks, especially for babies, the elderly, and people with chronic conditions
• A higher risk of fires due to increased heater and stove use
• Greater energy demand, which could put pressure on the electricity grid

SAWS is urging residents to wear warm clothing and to use heaters carefully. Ventilation is important if using indoor fires or gas heaters to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Rain Showers and Localised Flooding Expected

Heavy showers are forecast for areas in:

• KwaZulu-Natal
• Eastern Cape
• Limpopo
• Mpumalanga Highveld

Some areas might experience localised flooding, especially in towns or cities with poor drainage systems. Motorists are warned to drive slowly, turn on headlights during rain, and avoid roads covered in water.

The Yellow Level 2 Warning highlights the chance of disruptions to travel and day-to-day activities. People are advised to stay indoors if possible and avoid walking or driving in flooded areas.

Areas Under the Yellow Level 2 Warning

This weather alert affects a wide range of areas, both coastal and inland, including:

• Western Cape – Risk of damaging waves and showers
• Eastern Cape – Showers and windy conditions expected
• KwaZulu-Natal – Rain and cooler temperatures
• Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Free State – Cold and cloudy weather
• Limpopo and Northern Cape – Isolated rainfall and colder temperatures

Each region faces different risks, but all should remain alert and follow local updates.

Safety Tips During Yellow Level 2 Weather Alerts

To stay safe during this weather event, SAWS recommends the following:

• Avoid swimming, fishing, or boating in high wave conditions.
• Don’t cross flooded roads or bridges.
• Dress warmly and protect children and the elderly from the cold.
• Use heaters and fires safely; never leave them unattended.
• Keep emergency supplies nearby (torch, blankets, non-perishable food).
• Stay informed through SAWS alerts or local radio stations.

The Yellow Level 2 Warning is not meant to alarm but to help people prepare and reduce the risk of accidents or damage.

National Weather Forecast for 18 July 2025

Here’s what you can expect in some key cities across South Africa:

• Cape Town – Cloudy and rainy with strong winds, 14°C
• Durban – Overcast with isolated showers, 18°C
• Johannesburg – Clear but cold, 12°C
• Bloemfontein – Very cold and cloudy, 9°C
• Port Elizabeth – Rain and strong coastal winds, 15°C
• Polokwane – Light rain and cool, 17°C

The forecast shows that both the coast and inland areas will experience disruptive weather, reinforcing the importance of the Yellow Level 2 Warning.

What is a Yellow Level 2 Warning?

The Yellow Level 2 Warning is part of South Africa’s colour-coded alert system. It signals moderate potential impact, meaning that while the weather is not extreme, it can still cause problems if ignored.

Weather warnings are divided as follows:

• Yellow – Be aware (moderate danger)
• Orange – Be prepared (high impact likely)
• Red – Take action (severe impact expected)

SAWS uses these warnings to inform the public and support disaster management teams in protecting lives and property.

Stay informed by visiting the official SAWS website for regular updates.

Important Considerations

The Yellow Level 2 Warning for 18 July 2025 covers a combination of damaging waves, cold temperatures, and heavy showers. Whether you’re on the coast or inland, now is the time to prepare.

Avoid risky travel, stay warm, and follow official weather updates to stay safe.