Severe thunderstorms expected across Gauteng with level 4 warning issued

Cape Town — The South African Weather Services (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for Gauteng, with severe thunderstorms and excessive lightning expected in the province.

It starkly contrasts the persistent heatwaves that plagued the province, as temperatures reached the high-30s. SAWS forecaster, Letlhogonolo Thobela, warned of the potential impact the weather may have on the province, SABC News reported.

He explained the heatwaves lasted until yesterday before reaching its breaking point today and explained the storm will affect Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Free State.

“Severe thunderstorms are expected, it’s actually a Yellow Level 4, where there’s a low likelihood of it happening, however the impact will be significant of the severe thunderstorms. Heavy downpours are expected this afternoon into late evening over most parts of the north-eastern regions, covering Gauteng, the north-eastern Free State, eastern North West, parts of Mpumalanga, and the extreme south-western parts of Limpopo.”

He said the thunderstorms in Gauteng could lead to flooding, along with damaging winds and the high possibility of hail too.

Weather forecaster, Celeste Fourie, said temperatures have started to drop and residents can expect a 60% increase in thunderstorm activities.

“This Yellow Level four can be interpreted as a low likelihood of significant impacts to be expected. We are expecting a significant impact due to the fact that this would be the first rain or significant rain for this season, which as people know that due to the heat wave conditions, the ground is dry,” she said.

So, we are expecting a bit of runoff which will lead to the pulling of wood on roads. Please be cautious if you are living in areas that are prone to localised flooding. Be alert when you see any significant weather developing in your region,” she added.

According to The Citizen, Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, said his team would remain on high alert for any eventuality and he encouraged residents

Meanwhile, Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS) spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said they will be on high alert for any eventuality. He encouraged reisdents in low-lying areas to stay away from rivers and bridges and motorists are urged to remain cautious while driving.

Mulaudzi said the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services will remain on high alert monitoring all 7 regions of the city, together all specialized units including the Aquatic Rescue Unit which respond to all water related Emergencies.

“For any Life Threatening Emergencies residents are urged to call our Emergency Services Call Centre on 011 375 5911,” Mulaudzi said.

 The SA Weather Service has issued a warning for the possibility of severe thunderstorms on Tuesday with a 60% rain probability in the entire Gauteng

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen