South Africans can expect another day of harsh winter weather on Thursday, as a powerful cold system continues to affect large parts of the country.
Very cold, wet and windy conditions are expected across the Free State, southern North West, much of the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape interior, while severe thunderstorms, disruptive snowfall and dangerous coastal conditions are likely in affected regions.
The Eastern Cape will bear the brunt of the severe weather. Rain and thunderstorm activity are expected to be widespread, with an 80% chance of rain over central and southern interior areas, spreading into parts of the eastern interior.
Severe thunderstorms may produce heavy downpours, localised flooding of low-lying roads and bridges, hail and damaging winds capable of causing damage to infrastructure and settlements.
Snow is also expected over the higher ground near the Lesotho border, where disruptive snowfall could lead to icy roads and traffic disruptions.
Along the coastline from Cape Agulhas to Port Edward, strong to gale-force south-westerly winds and rough seas are expected to create hazardous conditions for motorists, small vessels and coastal communities. Beach activities and port operations could also be affected.
The Western Cape remains cold and cloudy with a 30% chance of showers and rain, mainly over southern and coastal districts. Conditions are expected to improve gradually from the afternoon over northern and north-eastern areas.
The Free State will be windy, cold to very cold, with a 60% chance of rain and showers over southern parts during the morning before conditions improve later in the day. Similar cold and windy conditions are expected across the Northern Cape, where isolated morning showers are possible in the east.
KwaZulu-Natal faces a 30% chance of showers and thundershowers, mainly in southern and central areas, while the north-east remains relatively warmer. Fresh to strong south-westerly winds will spread northwards along the coast during the day.
Gauteng will remain cool to cold, especially in southern areas, with only a slight chance of light showers near the southern border. Limpopo will enjoy the most settled weather, remaining fine and cool to warm, while Mpumalanga will be partly cloudy and cool, with a chance of light rain confined to the extreme south-west.
Motorists travelling through mountain passes and high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape are urged to exercise caution as snow, icy roads and poor visibility may create dangerous driving conditions. Residents in areas prone to flooding should also remain alert as heavy rainfall and thunderstorms move across the province.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za