The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a weather alert for Friday, 12 September 2025. Much of the country will face hot and dry weather, with some areas expecting isolated showers. The risk of veld fires remains extremely high in Limpopo, North West, Free State, and the Northern Cape.
As extreme weather becomes more common, these warnings highlight the need for both caution and preparation.
What to Expect Nationwide
Most inland provinces will be hot and dry, while the east and coastal areas will see cloud build-up and patchy rain. The SAWS Fire Danger Index warns that conditions are ideal for veld fires, which can ignite easily and spread quickly.
Provincial Forecasts
- Gauteng: Partly cloudy and warm. The UVB index is very high, so sun protection is essential.
- Mpumalanga: Fine and hot, turning cloudy later. Isolated showers and thundershowers are expected over the Highveld and escarpment.
- Limpopo: Hot and dry with afternoon cloud in the south. Fire danger is extremely high.
- North West: Hot and partly cloudy. Authorities warn of serious veld fire risk.
- Free State: Warm to hot with afternoon cloud build-up. Showers are possible in the east.
- Northern Cape: Morning fog along the coast, cool at first, then hot inland. Showers and thundershowers may develop in central and eastern areas.
- Western Cape: Fine in the west, partly cloudy elsewhere. Cooler conditions along the coast.
- Eastern Cape: The western half is partly cloudy and cool with light rain along the coast. The eastern half is cloudy and cool with showers and rain, except in the northwest.
- KwaZulu-Natal: Fog inland early. Partly cloudy and cool overall, warmer in the north. Isolated showers and thundershowers are likely, except in the northeast.
Weather Alert: Fire Danger
This weather alert emphasises fire risk. Hot, dry conditions combined with wind increase the chance of veld fires. These fires damage crops, threaten communities, and strain emergency services.
A peer-reviewed study confirms that fire weather days are becoming more frequent in southern Africa due to climate change and rising temperatures.
Protecting Your Health
High temperatures and UV exposure add another layer of risk. In Gauteng, sunburn can occur in under 20 minutes without protection.
Safety tips:
- Stay hydrated and avoid being outdoors during peak heat.
- Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
- Report veld fires to local authorities immediately.
- Ensure livestock and crops have water and shade.
Climate Context
The SAWS now issues impact-based weather warnings, designed to explain not just the weather but also how it may affect communities. These alerts are becoming more urgent as heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and fire risks increase across South Africa.
While showers will offer some relief in parts of the east, they will not ease fire danger in inland provinces.
Staying Prepared
This weather alert serves as a timely reminder to stay cautious. Hot, dry conditions will dominate much of South Africa, with isolated rain only in some provinces. Residents are urged to take safety measures, limit sun exposure, and avoid activities that could spark fires.
Preparedness is key to reducing the impact of extreme weather on people, property, and the environment.
For more detailed updates in your area, check out Today’s Weather Forecast – 12 September 2025.
