Level 4 severe weather warning issued for South Africa, including hail and lightning storms
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level four severe weather warning in Gauteng and surrounding areas until midnight on 6 November 2026.
The warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms across Gauteng, with level 2 warnings also issued for areas including Rustenburg and Potchefstroom.
In KwaZulu-Natal, level four warnings have been issued for parts of the North Coast, including Richards Bay and Mtubatuba.
A level-two warning was issued for Durban and Pietermaritzburg, with the system moving West towards the Free State.
The weather service warned that these storms could lead to localised damage to infrastructure, informal settlements, and properties.
There is also a chance of traffic disruptions due to tree falls and localised flooding on susceptible roads and bridges.
The level four warning for Johannesburg and Tshwane also has the possibility of “Large amounts of small hail over a populated area.”
In northern KZN, the weather service warned residents to be wary of possible localised flooding and to take necessary precautions.
“If possible, stay indoors and off the roads; avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles. If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground,” SAWS said.
“In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. In rural areas, move livestock to higher ground. Take caution when travelling on roads which may be flooded.”
SAWS warned about the possibility of “Localised and short-term disruption to power supply and communication.”
It said that, if possible, residents should avoid metal objects and switch off all electric appliances during the storms.
It also warned against playing golf or fishing during the severe weather warning, as these activities increase the risk of being struck by lightning.
“Do not go fishing or play golf as both the golf clubs and fishing rods are a good conductor of electricity,” SAWS said.
It also advised that any combination of hail, strong winds, and heavy downpours can accompany the forecast storms.
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