Today’s Weather Alert: SAWS Issues Severe Thunderstorm Alerts for Gauteng and Other Provinces

South Africans urged to brace for severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, and potential flooding across Gauteng, Northern Cape, Free State, and North West on Monday, 7 April.

Severe Thunderstorms Set to Strike: SAWS Issues Warnings Across Multiple Provinces

In today’s weather, The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has sounded the alarm for severe thunderstorms expected to hit parts of the country on Monday, 7 April 2025, with Gauteng, the Northern Cape, Free State, and North West provinces most at risk. These storms are expected to bring intense lightning, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding, posing a threat to both property and public safety.

Gauteng: Isolated But Dangerous Weather Expected

Although only the extreme southern parts of Gauteng are forecast to receive thunderstorms, SAWS has cautioned that these could be intense and accompanied by localized flooding. Residents in areas like Vereeniging, Meyerton, and surrounding zones should remain alert, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours. The province will remain cloudy and cool to warm, and the UVB sunburn index is very high, making sun protection necessary for those outdoors.

Northern Cape: High Risk for Widespread Thunderstorms

The northern and north-eastern areas of the Northern Cape are the most at risk, with widespread thundershowers predicted. The central and southeastern interior of the province can also expect heavy downpours, potentially leading to flooding in low-lying areas, riverbanks, and poorly drained zones. Coastal fog is expected in the morning, but inland areas will experience cloudy and cool to warm conditions throughout the day.

Free State: Widespread Rain in the West

Residents in the western parts of the Free State, including towns like Bethlehem, Kroonstad, and Welkom, are set to face scattered to widespread thundershowers, increasing the risk of flash flooding and hazardous driving conditions. Temperatures will remain cool, and skies will stay overcast for most of the day.

North West: Scattered Storms, Localised Flooding Risk

In the North West province, scattered thundershowers are forecast, particularly in the western and central areas. Although conditions will be less severe in the north-east, communities in the extreme west near Kuruman and Vryburg should prepare for possible water pooling on roads and infrastructure damage.

Regional Forecast Highlights for 7 April

• Mpumalanga: Cloudy with fog over the Highveld; isolated thundershowers expected in the southern Highveld and along the escarpment.
• Limpopo: Partly cloudy with possible light rain along the southern escarpment.
• Western Cape: Morning fog along the west coast, isolated showers inland; partly cloudy in the south.
• Eastern Cape: Scattered showers in the north, partly cloudy along the coast.
• KwaZulu-Natal: Cloudy and warm with isolated thunderstorms, particularly in the interior.

Safety Precautions from SAWS

SAWS urges all residents in affected regions to:

• Avoid flooded roads, rivers, and bridges – even shallow water can be dangerous.
• Secure loose outdoor items such as garden furniture, trampolines, and gazebos.
• Stay indoors during thunderstorm activity, especially during peak lightning times.
• Keep emergency contact numbers on hand, especially if you live in flood-prone areas.

Sunburn Alert: High UVB Index in Several Provinces

Despite cloud coverage in many regions, the UVB sunburn index is “very high” in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. Residents are advised to wear sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and protective clothing if outdoors for extended periods.

Stay Weather-Aware Today

With severe weather warnings in place for large parts of the country, including major provinces like Gauteng and the Northern Cape, it’s vital for South Africans to stay weather-aware, monitor local alerts, and act responsibly to ensure their safety.

For live updates and weather alerts, visit the SAWS official website.

Check out: Today’s Weather Forecast – 7 April 2025