By Nkosana Khumalo
While many parts of South Africa are currently sweltering under the first heatwave of the season, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in areas such as Limpopo and Mpumalanga, an intense cold front is set to sweep across the country, bringing winter-like conditions to large portions of the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape. The contrasting weather patterns are expected to have a widespread impact on various provinces, with severe cold, disruptive snowfall, and strong winds forecasted to affect South Africa from Thursday, 19 September 2024, through the weekend.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings about the cold front and cut-off low-pressure system, which will usher in bitterly cold weather, particularly over the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga. In contrast, many northern regions will continue to experience extreme heat ahead of the cold system’s arrival. These dual weather extremes are expected to significantly disrupt daily life and require farmers, residents, and motorists to take precautionary measures to ensure safety.
Extreme Heat Before the Cold Front
As the cold front approaches, parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga are experiencing what could be one of the hottest starts to spring in recent memory. With temperatures exceeding 38 to 40°C, these regions are in the grips of a severe heatwave. The combination of extreme heat and dry conditions has raised concerns about possible wildfires, especially in areas with flammable vegetation.
The Limpopo Valley and Lowveld, in particular, are experiencing the highest temperatures in the country, and SAWS has advised residents to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. “Heatwaves of this magnitude are not uncommon during this time of the year,” said a spokesperson from SAWS. “However, it’s crucial to take extra care during these periods, as the hot conditions can quickly escalate into dangerous situations for those vulnerable to heatstroke or dehydration.”
Residents are urged to monitor weather updates and heed warnings about fire dangers, as any uncontrolled blazes could spread quickly under the current conditions. Meanwhile, many are anticipating a welcome relief in temperatures as the cold front moves into these areas by Saturday, 21 September.
Cold Front Brings Snowfall and Bitter Cold
The first significant cold front of spring is expected to arrive in the Western Cape on Thursday, bringing with it a wave of wintry conditions. SAWS predicts that the cold front will be accompanied by showers and strong winds, affecting areas like the Garden Route, Little Karoo, and the Eastern Cape by Friday. However, the most concerning feature of this system is the cut-off low-pressure system that will follow, spreading cold air and snowfall across multiple provinces.
“Disruptive snowfall and bitterly cold conditions are expected to affect the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape from Thursday, spreading to the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga by Friday,” the Weather Service noted. This includes the north-eastern highlands of the Eastern Cape, where snowfall of up to 30 cm is possible, significantly impacting rural communities, livestock, and traffic routes.
The snowfall is expected to be heaviest on Friday, affecting key transport routes like the N3, N5, and N11. “This may result in the closure of mountain passes, affect crops, and lead to the loss of livestock,” SAWS warned. Small stock farmers in affected areas have been urged to take immediate precautions to protect their animals from the harsh conditions.
Farmers in KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and Mpumalanga have also been advised to monitor weather updates closely, as cold and wet conditions could have severe impacts on both livestock and crops. In higher-altitude regions, particularly the southern Highveld and escarpment of Mpumalanga, widespread snowfall is likely, making this the first significant snow event of the season.
Severe Winds and Rough Seas in the Western and Eastern Cape
The cold front is not just bringing cold temperatures and snow. Along the coastal regions of the Western Cape, strong to near-gale force winds are expected, with rough seas forecasted to reach heights of 4 to 6 metres. This could result in dangerous conditions for fishing vessels and small craft.
The Eastern Cape will also experience rough seas and strong winds, with gusts likely to exceed 60 km/h along the coast. SAWS has issued a marine warning, advising sailors and fishermen to exercise caution and avoid going out to sea if conditions become too dangerous.
“It will be cold to very cold over parts of the Western Cape interior and the Eastern Cape on Thursday,” the Weather Service stated, cautioning coastal residents to brace for high winds and rough seas that could cause flooding in low-lying areas and impact coastal infrastructure.
Thunderstorms Expected Over Gauteng and the Free State
While the Western and Eastern Cape brace for snow and strong winds, Gauteng, the Free State, and parts of Mpumalanga are forecasted to experience thunderstorms by Friday. These storms could bring heavy rainfall, particularly to the Free State and eastern parts of North West. Thunderstorms in these regions could also lead to flash flooding, making travel dangerous on Friday evening into Saturday morning.
The intense low-pressure system responsible for the adverse weather will develop along the border of the Northern Cape and Eastern Cape provinces, spreading into the southern parts of the Free State by Friday night. This system will bring widespread showers and thunderstorms to KwaZulu-Natal and scattered thunderstorms over Gauteng and Limpopo.
Residents in affected areas are advised to remain indoors during the height of the storms, secure loose outdoor items, and avoid driving through flooded roads. “We expect significant rainfall over parts of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal, which could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas,” warned SAWS. “This could affect travel over major routes, particularly during peak traffic times.”
The Weekend Forecast: Snow and Cold Temperatures to Persist
The cut-off low system will continue to influence South Africa’s weather on Saturday, 21 September, with the most severe conditions expected to persist over the high-lying regions of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga. Bitterly cold daytime temperatures, as low as 4 to 8°C, are expected across these areas, and snowfall could still cause disruptions to major transport routes and rural communities.
While snowfall in Gauteng is not common, there is a small chance of light flurries over the southern parts of the province on Saturday morning. “Current numerical weather prediction models indicate the possibility of light snowfall over the southern parts of Gauteng and the Highveld of Mpumalanga on Saturday,” SAWS noted, though they cautioned that this forecast remains uncertain and subject to change.
The cold front is expected to weaken by Saturday afternoon, with conditions gradually improving as it moves out of the country. Daytime temperatures will slowly recover from Sunday into Monday, especially in eastern parts of South Africa, where sunny conditions are forecasted to return. However, temperatures in the Western and Northern Cape will remain cool throughout the weekend.
SAWS Monitoring the Situation Closely
As the extreme weather patterns unfold, the South African Weather Service has committed to closely monitoring the situation and providing regular updates to the public. Any further developments regarding the cold front, heatwave, and cut-off low-pressure system will be communicated through media outlets and the SAWS website.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following weather updates on television, radio, and online platforms, especially those in high-risk areas where snowfall and flooding could pose a threat. “The weather service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required,” SAWS said.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate