Cape Town – The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning about a significant temperature drop and the possibility of snowfall in the southern half of the country.
A cut-off low weather system is expected to form over the southern interior, resulting in a sudden and widespread decrease in maximum temperatures, especially in the Cape region.
“Apart from the impact of widespread, bitterly cold and showery conditions setting in over the Cape provinces, the South Africa Weather Service (SAWS) expects snowfall to occur over the higher mountains of the Cape provinces tomorrow, spreading to include the Drakensberg Mountain peaks of Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday.
“As the cut-off low develops further and intensifies during the week, cold weather, accompanied by overcast, rainy conditions, can be expected to set in over parts of the Northern Cape, North West, Gauteng, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Mpumalanga,” SAWS said.
The rainfall may lead to local flooding and disruptions to road traffic, and there is also a possibility of severe thunderstorms, small hail, and gusty surface winds.
Rainfall chart for today, 19 July 2023. Widespread to scattered showers and rain over the southern parts of the country, otherwise isolated extending to the eastern parts. pic.twitter.com/bfHrpWfkUn
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) July 19, 2023
The inclement weather is forecasted to shift towards the eastern and northeastern provinces by Saturday, with improved conditions expected on Sunday.
Livestock, vulnerable crops, and plants are at risk, and the public is advised to take precautions and keep warm.
The SAWS has issued a Yellow level 2 warning for disruptive snow in specific areas, including the Dr Beyers Naude Local Municipality and Graaff Reinet.
Strong waves and winds are also expected along the southwestern and southern coast of the Western Cape, leading to navigation difficulties for small vessels and watercraft.
The public is encouraged to stay updated through television, radio, and social media platforms, as well as the SA Weather Service website and Twitter account.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
