South African Weather Service (SAWS)
By Mpho Moloi
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms expected in Gauteng and the western and southern parts of Mpumalanga on Thursday. The anticipated weather event is forecasted to bring heavy downpours, potential flooding, and strong winds, which may lead to disruptions in affected areas.
“Thunderstorms are expected to develop from the late afternoon over southern Gauteng and southern Mpumalanga, and will move northwards to the rest of Gauteng and the western parts of Mpumalanga in the evening,” SAWS confirmed in a statement.
SAWS advises that scattered rainfall between 15mm to 25mm can be anticipated, with isolated areas potentially experiencing intense downpours of up to 40mm. This substantial rainfall is likely to lead to localized flooding in flood-prone areas, particularly affecting low-lying roads, informal settlements, and communities with inadequate drainage infrastructure. The public is urged to exercise caution and avoid areas susceptible to flooding during the storm’s peak.
Gauteng and Mpumalanga Communities Prepare for Severe Weather Impact
As the thunderstorms advance across Gauteng and Mpumalanga, communities are urged to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to ensure their safety. This advisory marks the latest in a series of storm warnings in South Africa, as changing climate patterns have led to increased storm activity in recent years.
What Does a Yellow Level 2 Warning Mean?
SAWS’ yellow level 2 warning is part of a tiered alert system designed to prepare and protect the public during severe weather conditions. A yellow level 2 alert signifies a moderate weather threat with a potential for localized impact. While not the most severe on the scale, it signals enough risk to warrant public awareness and preparation.
The weather service uses this system to communicate the severity and urgency of impending weather patterns, encouraging the public to remain cautious. During a level 2 alert, individuals are advised to minimize unnecessary travel, secure loose outdoor items, and remain indoors when possible, especially during the peak of the storm.
Potential Impacts of Severe Thunderstorms
SAWS has outlined specific risks associated with the anticipated thunderstorms, including:
1. Flooding of Roads and Low-Lying Areas: Areas with inadequate drainage or historically prone to flooding may experience quick, localized flooding, especially during heavy downpours.
2. Damage to Informal Settlements: Many informal settlements across Gauteng and Mpumalanga lack robust infrastructure to withstand severe weather, which may lead to water intrusion, damage to dwellings, and disruption to residents.
3. Disruption to Public Services and Transport: Severe thunderstorms can lead to delays and disruptions in public transportation, as well as power outages in affected areas. Commuters and public transport operators are advised to anticipate delays.
4. Safety Hazards from Fallen Trees and Debris: Strong winds accompanying thunderstorms may dislodge branches, trees, and other debris, posing potential safety risks to pedestrians, motorists, and property.
Advice for Residents in Affected Areas
Residents in the warning zones are advised to stay informed about weather developments and follow SAWS updates. The weather service suggests the following precautionary measures:
• Limit Travel During Peak Storm Times: Avoid travel during heavy downpours, as visibility may be reduced, and roads may become hazardous due to surface water and debris.
• Prepare Emergency Kits: Keeping an emergency kit with essentials, such as bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit, can be vital, especially in areas where power outages may occur.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Strong winds can turn outdoor items into projectiles, posing a risk to people and property. Residents should secure items like trash bins, garden furniture, and bicycles.
Local Government and Emergency Services on High Alert
Local municipalities and emergency services in both Gauteng and Mpumalanga have been placed on high alert to respond to any incidents resulting from the storms. In Gauteng, the provincial emergency management team has coordinated with local disaster management units to assess high-risk areas and prepare for quick responses to emergency situations.
In Mpumalanga, similar preparations are underway. The Mpumalanga Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has indicated that it is closely monitoring developments and is ready to deploy response teams if necessary. According to COGTA spokesperson, the department aims to minimize potential impact by ensuring that resources, including water rescue teams, are on standby.
Climate Change and Increased Weather Warnings in South Africa
South Africa has witnessed a rise in severe weather patterns, attributed to the broader effects of climate change. This includes increased frequency and intensity of thunderstorms, floods, and droughts across various regions. The recent surge in thunderstorms in Gauteng and Mpumalanga is part of a larger pattern that climate experts believe is influenced by shifting weather dynamics globally.
“South Africa is no exception to the impacts of climate change, and our weather patterns are becoming more volatile,” explains Dr. Mpho Nkuna, a climatologist at the University of Pretoria. “The increasing number of thunderstorms is indicative of this change. As a society, we need to be more prepared and build resilience, particularly in areas with vulnerable infrastructure.”
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