The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a series of warnings for Thursday, 31 July, as cold, wet, and windy weather is expected to impact multiple provinces, including the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Western Cape and Northern Cape: Cold, wet, windy
A high-pressure system ridging behind a cold front will bring:
- Very cold to wet and windy conditions in:
- Cape Winelands
- Central Karoo
- Little Karoo
- Namakwa District (Northern Cape)
Residents are urged to take extra care of livestock and pets, and ensure adequate shelter from freezing temperatures.
Damaging winds and high waves: Coastal alert
Western Cape coast (Thursday – Friday):
- Waves: 4-6 metres
- Wave period: 10-13 seconds
- Areas affected: From Saldanha Bay to Cape Agulhas in the morning, spreading to Plettenberg Bay and Alexander Bay later in the day
- Wind speeds: 40-60km/h along southern and southwestern coastlines
KwaZulu-Natal coast (Thursday – Friday):
- Winds: Strong southerly to south-westerly winds
- Speed: 25-35 knots, gusting up to 40 knots
- Affected areas: Port Edward to Mtunzini Thursday night, spreading to Kosi Bay by Friday
Impact risks:
- Navigation hazards for small vessels
- Increased risk of capsising
- Localised disruption to harbour/port activities
- Beachfront disruptions expected
Eastern Cape: Disruptive snow and coastal danger
Interior (Thursday)
- Light snow expected on high ground
- Road icing likely due to sub-zero temperatures
- Risk of traffic disruption at night
East coast (Thursday – Friday):
- Gale-force W/SW winds
- Wave height: 4.5m to 6.5 metres, persisting for more than 24 hours
- Possible impact: Dangerous seas, port disruptions, beach closures, and threats to small boats
SAWS safety advice
- Avoid travel in snow-prone or high-wind areas where possible
- Use heating devices safely – never leave open flames unattended
- Secure outdoor items that may become hazardous in strong winds
- Mariners and beachfront operators should monitor updates and avoid unnecessary operations
Are you affected by this latest SAWS weather warning?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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