A weather alert has been issued for parts of South Africa as a cold front moves across the country, bringing chilly conditions and rain along the southeast coast. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has confirmed that the start of the week will be marked by below-average temperatures, cloudy skies, and isolated showers—especially in parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Cold and Wet Conditions Along the Southeast Coast
Communities along the southeast coast, including areas such as East London, Port St. Johns, and Port Alfred, are likely to experience light rain and cooler temperatures into midweek. According to recent weather updates, coastal winds from the Indian Ocean are contributing to overcast skies and moisture in the region.
Showers are expected to be scattered and more pronounced during the early mornings and evenings. While rainfall totals are not expected to be severe, the persistent cold and damp conditions may disrupt daily routines and pose health risks to vulnerable populations.
Interior Provinces Feel the Chill
Although the weather alert centers on coastal provinces, inland areas are not exempt. Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, and parts of the Northern Cape started the week with frosty mornings and chilly daytime highs. In Johannesburg, early morning temperatures dipped below 5°C, with daytime highs barely reaching 17°C.
Dry and cold weather will dominate these regions, but with clearer skies than the southeast. The Free State and the Highveld could also experience ground frost and misty mornings, especially in low-lying areas.
Weather Forecast Snapshot (30 June–3 July 2025)
- Eastern Cape: Overcast, cold, and rainy along the coast. Temperatures range from 10°C to 16°C.
- KwaZulu-Natal: Light showers along the coast with temperatures between 14°C and 19°C. Inland areas remain dry but cold.
- Gauteng: Clear but icy conditions, with lows of 3°C and highs of up to 17°C.
- Free State & Northern Cape: Cold, dry weather. Frost likely in rural and elevated areas.
- Western Cape: Dry and slightly warmer from midweek. Daytime highs around 18°C to 20°C.
For more detailed forecasts, visit the South African Weather Service website.
Precautionary Measures During Cold Weather
With the weather alert in effect, residents are advised to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves and their families:
- Wear warm clothing: Dress in layers and cover exposed skin to prevent heat loss.
- Heat your home safely: Use heaters responsibly and ensure good ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Avoid open flames: Do not leave fires, candles, or paraffin heaters unattended.
- Stay indoors: Reduce unnecessary travel during misty or icy conditions.
- Assist vulnerable groups: Check on the elderly, children, and people with chronic illnesses who are more affected by cold temperatures.
Motorists should also exercise caution on slippery or misty roads. Frost can create dangerous driving conditions in the early mornings and late evenings.
What’s Causing the Cold Snap?
This week’s weather alert is driven by a cold front that moved in from the southwest over the weekend. It has since spread across the central interior and the east coast. The system is interacting with a high-pressure zone inland, trapping cold air and leading to widespread low temperatures.
This pattern is typical of South Africa’s winter weather and may repeat throughout July. Similar events have previously led to cold, wet spells along the coast and frosty conditions inland. Weather experts expect a gradual warming trend from Wednesday, although the southeast coast may stay cooler for longer.
Looking Ahead
While the worst of the cold is expected to ease later in the week, the weather alert remains in place until at least midweek for coastal areas. The rest of the country should experience clearer skies and slightly warmer days by Thursday.
Stay informed by checking official updates through the South African Weather Service and trusted media outlets such as The Citizen’s weather report.
