Today’s Weather Alert: Severe Thunderstorms, Heavy Rain & Extreme Heat Expected Across Multiple Provinces

Today’s Weather Alert

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert for Friday, 7 February 2025, warning of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and extreme heat across several provinces. Residents should prepare for potential localized flooding, strong winds, and fire risks in affected areas. Here’s what you need to know about today’s forecast.

Impact-Based Warnings: Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding

SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in:

• Central and western parts of Free State – Heavy downpours may lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas, roads, and bridges. Property damage is also possible.
• Northern parts of the Eastern Cape – Severe thunderstorms could bring intense rainfall, causing similar flooding and infrastructure damage.

Motorists and pedestrians should be cautious on the roads, as reduced visibility and wet conditions may pose dangers.

Fire Danger Warnings: High-Risk Areas Identified

Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected in:

• Western Cape (except in the extreme southeast)
• Western parts of Northern Cape
• Lowveld of Limpopo

Residents in these areas are advised to avoid open flames, outdoor fires, and dispose of flammable materials responsibly to prevent wildfires.

Extreme Heat Advisory: Sweltering Temperatures Ahead

Several parts of Western Cape will experience extremely hot and uncomfortable conditions, particularly in:

• West Coast
• Cape Winelands
• Central and Little Karoo District Municipalities

With temperatures soaring, people are urged to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak heat hours.

Provincial Weather Forecast for Friday, 7 February

Gauteng

• Cloudy and warm
• Isolated showers and thundershowers expected

Mpumalanga

• Morning drizzle and fog along the escarpment
• Cloudy and cool to warm, with isolated showers and thundershowers
• Hot temperatures in the Lowveld

Limpopo

• Cloudy in the east and south-central regions
• Drizzle along the southern escarpment
• Partly cloudy and warm, with isolated showers and thundershowers in the south
• Hot conditions in the Lowveld and Limpopo Valley

North West

• Partly cloudy, windy, and warm
• Isolated showers and thundershowers (except in the northwest, where it will be hot)

Free State

• Cloudy, windy, and warm
• Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers

Northern Cape

• Cloudy and windy in the east
• Partly cloudy, warm to hot
• Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers (except in the extreme west)
• Very hot temperatures in western areas

Western Cape

• Partly cloudy over the eastern parts, with morning fog patches
• Isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers in the northeast
• Otherwise, fine and hot to very hot (warm along the south coast)

Eastern Cape (Western Half)

• Partly cloudy and cool
• Isolated showers and thundershowers, scattered over the interior
• Morning fog expected
• Warm conditions in the northeast

Eastern Cape (Eastern Half)

• Morning fog in the interior
• Cloudy and cool
• Scattered showers and thundershowers expected

KwaZulu-Natal

• Morning fog patches over the southern interior
• Cloudy and cool to warm
• Scattered showers and rain
• UVB sunburn index: High – Residents should take precautions against sun exposure

Weather Safety Tips for Today

1. Flooding Precautions:
   • Avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers, or bridges.
   • Stay indoors during severe thunderstorms.
2. Fire Safety:
   • Refrain from starting open fires in high-risk areas.
   • Report any wildfires immediately to local authorities.
3. Heatwave Protection:
   • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
   • Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
4. Travel Caution:
   • Expect wet and slippery roads in storm-affected areas.
   • Drive carefully and increase following distances.

Final Thoughts

With severe thunderstorms, extreme heat, and fire risks expected across multiple provinces today, residents are urged to stay updated with the latest weather alerts from SAWS. Take necessary precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.

For real-time updates, follow SAWS or your local disaster management authorities. Stay safe!