Gauteng Braces for Rare Snowfall as Cold Front Sweeps Across South Africa
Weather Alert: Gauteng residents, grab your coats, boots, and camera phones—snow might be heading your way next week, and it’s not just a light drizzle of frost. The province, known more for its dry winters than magical snow scenes, is on weather watch as meteorologists signal a rare snow forecast for Monday, June 9.
According to Vox Weather, a significant cold front is expected to roll in over the weekend, potentially turning parts of Gauteng into a fleeting winter wonderland, reminiscent of the last snowfall recorded on July 10, 2023.
Cold Front Incoming: Sub-20°C Temps and a Chance of Snow
The drop in temperature is already making itself felt across the country, with thermometers expected to plummet below 20°C across Gauteng. This is part of the first of several cold fronts sweeping in this winter, making it clear that the chill is here to stay.
“Residents should prepare for icy conditions as we head into the weekend,” noted Vox Weather. “Blankets, heaters, and warm meals are essential.”
Snow Forecast: Where and When?
While the initial snow activity is forecast to begin late Saturday night into Sunday morning, it is expected primarily over:
- The Cederberg mountains (Western Cape)
- The Nuweveld and Roggeveld mountains (Northern Cape)
- Heavy snowfall already developing in Lesotho
But by Monday, June 9, the snow forecast extends to Gauteng, particularly the southern regions of the province and parts of the southern Highveld of Mpumalanga.
The snowfall is expected to be light, but for a region unaccustomed to snow, even a dusting can bring excitement—and disruptions.
A Forecast Full of Possibility—And Uncertainty
While snow lovers may be thrilled at the prospect, Vox Weather has urged caution, highlighting that only the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) currently predicts snow for Gauteng.
They added, “As we’ve seen many times before, cut-off lows are unpredictable. Forecasts may change dramatically day by day. Snow might disappear from the forecast altogether or shift into freezing rain.”
Other Snow-Hit Regions
If you’re a snow chaser, the best chances of seeing significant snowfall will likely be in and around:
- Lesotho (especially near Sani Pass)
- Free State (eastern regions)
- KwaZulu-Natal (Underberg and western mountain regions)
- Southern Drakensberg and Barkly East (Eastern Cape)
However, residents and travellers should be cautious. Disruptive snowfall in these areas could lead to closed mountain passes, stranded vehicles, and generally hazardous travel conditions.
What You Should Do Now
- Stay updated: Follow official forecasts from SAWS and Vox Weather.
- Prepare: Stock up on essentials, especially if you’re in a snow-prone region.
- Travel smart: Avoid mountain routes where snow might cause delays or closures.
- Stay warm: Check that your home heating is working and pets are protected.
In Summary
Snow in Gauteng is not an everyday occurrence, and if it arrives next week, it could be one for the memory books. With temperatures dropping, snow sweeping the highlands, and meteorologists watching the skies closely, South Africa’s winter is truly beginning with a chill.
Stay safe, stay warm, and maybe—just maybe—get ready to build a snowman in Joburg.
Also read: Today’s Weather Forecast – 5 June 2025
