Severe weather warning for South Africa this week
Severe winter weather is expected across many parts of South Africa this week, and households are being warned to prepare for the adverse conditions.
A double cold front is set to sweep through the country, bringing freezing temperatures, potential fire hazards, and damaging coastal storms.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) noted that isolated showers are forecast along the east coast and the northeastern parts of the country, while strong winds and large waves are likely along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
It added that extremely high fire danger conditions have been flagged in the Northern Cape’s Nama Khoi municipality.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the central and western parts of the country are expected to experience partly cloudy skies with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers.
Gauteng, in particular, is bracing for an intense drop in temperatures. Residents are being urged to stock up on blankets and prepare for near-freezing conditions.
Forecasts show that Johannesburg could dip to 0°C on Friday, with daytime highs of only 14°C. Pretoria is expected to drop to 2°C, with a high of 16°C.
These conditions could mark winter’s final cold snap before the seasonal shift towards spring. The public is being warned to use heating devices with care.
SAWS has stressed the importance of not leaving heaters, braziers, paraffin stoves or candles unattended, particularly in households where fire hazards can escalate quickly during cold spells.
“While the current cold fronts are in line with seasonal expectations, these impacts show the need for more vigilance, safety and mitigation measures,” SAWS warned.
Households are encouraged to take practical steps to stay warm and protect vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people living in informal settlements.
Draft stoppers or rolled-up towels under doors and bubble wrap on windows can insulate indoor spaces against the chill.
Residents are also advised to limit time outdoors, particularly during rain or snow, and ensure proper ventilation when using fuel-based heating to avoid the build-up of carbon monoxide.
Be prepared
Given the possibility of road closures, flooding, or power outages, it’s advisable to keep essential supplies at home, including bottled water, non-perishable food, batteries, and torches.
In the event of load shedding, extra blankets and candles should also be kept within easy reach.
Power utility Eskom noted on Friday (25 July) that unplanned outages are currently below the limits set in its winter outlook, and demand levels remain low.
The winter outlook, published on 5 May 2025, covering the period ending 31 August 2025, indicates that load shedding will not be necessary if unplanned outages stay below 13,000MW.
If outages rise to 15,000MW, load shedding may be necessary but not beyond stage 2. Outages are currently averaging under 12,000MW.
Should demand pick up during the cold snaps, the close to 4,000MW being returned to power this week, which should mitigate any issues.
Community support is especially vital during these cold spells. People are encouraged to check in regularly with elderly neighbours, those with health issues, or anyone living alone.
Donating warm clothing, blankets, and food to local charities can help ease the strain on those most affected.
Even a single blanket can make a difference to someone facing freezing nights without proper shelter.
Where it is safe to do so, residents can also help distribute items such as gloves, beanies, and sandbags to those living in informal settlements or flood-prone areas.
South Africans are also urged to stay informed by following updates from SAWS and to heed any weather-related warnings.
Hazardous conditions such as flooding, strong winds, or icy roads can develop quickly. If roads are waterlogged or visibility is poor, avoid unnecessary travel and never attempt to cross flooded routes.
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