South Africa is currently experiencing a significant weather event with severe thunderstorms, extreme heat, and heightened fire dangers affecting several regions. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for Thursday, 5 December 2024, highlighting the potential risks posed by this extreme weather. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared.

Weather Warnings for 5 December 2024

Impact-Based Warnings

SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms. The northeastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal are expected to face damaging winds, heavy downpours, excessive lightning, and hail. These conditions could lead to flooding, infrastructure damage, and potential injuries.

Other areas at risk include:

Southern KwaZulu-Natal
Eastern and Central Eastern Cape
Southern Escarpment of Mpumalanga

These regions could experience localized damages to property, vehicles, and even livestock due to intense thunderstorms.

Fire Danger Warning

High fire danger conditions are forecast for:

North West Province
Eastern Northern Cape
Western Free State
Northern Limpopo and Mpumalanga Lowveld
Northeastern Western Cape

Residents in these areas are urged to avoid any activities that could ignite fires, as dry conditions and high winds could rapidly escalate the risk.

Heatwave Advisory

A persistent heatwave will grip Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, and northern KwaZulu-Natal until at least Friday. In particular, the Lowveld regions of Limpopo and Mpumalanga will face extreme temperatures, making outdoor activities potentially dangerous.

Regional Weather Forecasts

Gauteng

Residents should prepare for partly cloudy, very hot weather with isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon, particularly in the southeast. The UVB sunburn index is high, so sunscreen and protective clothing are essential.

Mpumalanga

Mpumalanga will experience fine, hot to very hot weather, especially in the Lowveld, with scattered showers and thundershowers developing later in the day.

Limpopo

The province will see partly cloudy and very hot conditions, with extreme heat in the Lowveld and Limpopo Valley. Afternoon thundershowers are expected, except in the Lowveld and northern areas.

North West

North West will face hot and windy conditions with isolated showers and thundershowers later in the day.

Free State

Partly cloudy, windy, and warm to hot weather is expected, with isolated thundershowers developing across the region.

Northern Cape

Coastal areas will be partly cloudy, while the interior remains warm to hot. Cooler conditions will prevail in the extreme western parts of the province.

Western Cape

Cloudy weather with morning rain is expected over the southwestern regions, followed by partly cloudy, cool to warm conditions. UVB sunburn risk remains extreme.

Eastern Cape

Both halves of the Eastern Cape will experience morning fog and drizzle. The western half will be warm to hot with scattered thunderstorms, while the eastern half will see cloudy, warm weather with isolated thundershowers.

KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal will have a mix of morning fog and warm to very hot conditions, especially in the northern areas. Scattered thunderstorms are anticipated throughout the region.

Safety Tips for Severe Weather

Thunderstorms:
- Avoid open fields, tall trees, and metal objects during lightning.
- Secure loose items around your home that could be affected by strong winds.
Heatwaves:
- Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly.
Fire Danger:
- Refrain from lighting open fires or discarding cigarette butts in dry areas.
- Have an evacuation plan ready if you live near wildfire-prone areas.

Severe weather across South Africa demands vigilance and preparedness. Whether facing thunderstorms, heatwaves, or fire risks, understanding the forecast and taking precautions can make all the difference. Stay updated with the SA Weather Service for real-time alerts and prioritize safety during these challenging conditions.