GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - South Africans are being urged to prepare for a significant change in weather as two cold fronts are set to bring widespread rain, strong winds, rough seas and snow over the Women's Day long weekend.
Severe weather expected from Sunday
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), a cold front accompanied by a steep upper-air trough is expected to make landfall over the Western and Northern Cape on Sunday, 9 August, before moving eastwards across the country.
The system will bring cold to very cold temperatures, persistent rainfall and strong winds, with snow expected over several mountain ranges.
Western and Southern Cape to be first affected
The first impacts are expected to be felt in the Western and Northern Cape on Sunday before spreading into the Eastern Cape later in the day.
Residents can expect:
- Cold to very cold conditions.
- Rain and showers.
- Strong to damaging winds.
- Rough sea conditions along the coast.
- Snow over mountainous areas.
Screenshot: Windy.com
More widespread rain expected on Monday
By Monday, 10 August, the upper-air trough is forecast to deepen as it moves over the central and eastern parts of South Africa.
This is expected to spread cold weather further inland, with scattered to widespread rain and showers forecast across the southern parts of the country.
Snow is expected over the mountain ranges of:
- Free State
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Mpumalanga
While there is a slight chance of light snowfall over other high-lying areas, SAWS says confidence remains highest for these provinces.
Possible impacts
The weather service has warned that the system could result in several hazards, including:
- Localised flooding of low-lying areas, roads, bridges and informal settlements.
- Fallen trees and damage to roofs and infrastructure due to strong winds.
- Localised power interruptions.
- Dangerous driving conditions.
- Rough seas and damaging waves affecting coastal activities.
- Hazardous mountain passes due to snowfall.
- Possible road closures in snow-affected areas.
- Increased health risks for vulnerable people exposed to the cold.
- Stress on livestock due to prolonged cold conditions.
Public urged to stay informed
The South African Weather Service has urged residents, motorists, farmers and disaster management authorities to monitor updated forecasts and weather warnings as the system develops.
People travelling during the long weekend, particularly through mountain passes or coastal areas, are advised to check road and weather conditions before setting off.
With heavy rain, strong winds and snow expected in several parts of the country, authorities are encouraging the public to take the necessary precautions to remain safe throughout the weekend.
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