A cold front is sweeping across South Africa, and snow is expected in Gauteng. While snowfall is rare in the province, this weather event has drawn attention, with experts predicting light snow or graupel (soft hail) in some areas, particularly at higher altitudes like Magaliesburg. Here’s everything you need to know about the cold front, weather warnings, and how this affects Gauteng.
What’s Behind the Snow Expected in Gauteng?
A strong cut-off low-pressure system is responsible for the cold and wet weather currently moving across South Africa. This system is causing temperatures to drop throughout the country, including in Gauteng. While snow is unlikely to settle in Johannesburg or Pretoria, areas with higher altitudes, like Magaliesburg, may experience light snow or graupel.
VoxWeather explains that although temperatures are dropping, they’re not expected to fall low enough for snow to accumulate in most of Gauteng. However, light snow or graupel could occur, especially in areas with higher ground.
Expert Insight on Snowfall in Gauteng
According to VoxWeather, the freezing levels in Gauteng will lower, but not enough to allow snow to settle in most areas. Instead, light snow or graupel will be more likely in some parts of the province, especially on higher ground.
VoxWeather says, “While freezing levels will drop, they won’t fall low enough for snow to settle. Light snow or graupel is more likely in the western parts of Gauteng.”
Weather Warnings and Impact
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued weather warnings due to the cold front. Severe thunderstorms with large amounts of small hail are expected in the Free State and eastern Northern Cape. These storms may cause damage to infrastructure, settlements, property, vehicles, and livestock. Additionally, there is a warning for damaging waves along the coast, particularly between Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay.
SAWS has issued a yellow-level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms in the Free State and parts of the Northern Cape. This may lead to localized damage to infrastructure, property, and agricultural production. The SAWS has also issued a yellow-level 1 warning for damaging waves, which will affect areas from Alexander Bay to Plettenberg Bay, causing disruptions to beachfront activities.
The cold front will bring temperatures close to freezing, especially at night. Some areas may experience temperatures as low as 0°C. The SAWS advises residents to prepare for these conditions and stay warm.
How to Prepare for Cold Weather and Snow
Here are some tips for staying safe and comfortable as the cold front moves through:
- Dress in Layers: Make sure to wear warm clothing, including a jacket, sturdy shoes, and extra layers to stay warm as temperatures fluctuate.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure elderly family members or those with health conditions are kept warm and indoors, especially during the coldest times of day.
- Test Your Heating: If you use a heater or fireplace, make sure it’s working properly. Always take precautions to avoid fire hazards when using space heaters.
- Be Careful on the Roads: If snow or graupel settles, the roads could become slippery. Drive carefully, particularly in areas where snow is more likely to fall, such as Magaliesburg.
Snowfall in South Africa: A Rare Sight
Snowfall in Gauteng is unusual, and when it does happen, it typically occurs in areas with higher altitudes. The last significant snowfall in Johannesburg occurred on July 10, 2023, sparking excitement among residents. While snow is expected in Gauteng this week, it will likely be a brief, light event, and snow accumulation is not expected in the cities.
Cold fronts like this one remind us how unpredictable the weather can be in South Africa. While snowfall is rare, it is always a spectacle that captures the imagination of locals.
CHECK OUT: Today’s Weather Forecast – 6 June 2025
As the cold front moves through, snow is expected in Gauteng, although it won’t settle in the cities of Johannesburg or Pretoria. Areas like Magaliesburg may see light snow or graupel. Even though snowfall in Gauteng is rare, it’s always exciting when it does occur.
Stay warm and stay safe during the cold weather. Keep an eye on weather warnings and prepare for the impact of severe thunderstorms and coastal disruptions.
For more weather updates, visit the South African Weather Service.
