South Africa is bracing for severe weather conditions on February 6, as strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall are expected to impact several provinces.
The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued warnings for disruptive rain and damaging winds, with a high risk of localised flooding, travel disruptions, and infrastructure damage.
Cape Town and surrounding areas are forecast to experience wind speeds exceeding 50 km/h, while fresh winds will affect the east coast. A weather alert has also been issued for the southwest coastline due to the likelihood of strong winds and damaging waves.
Inland, central and eastern regions, including KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and parts of the Eastern Cape, are set to face widespread thunderstorms and heavy downpours.
KwaZulu-Natal is expected to be one of the hardest-hit provinces, with scattered to widespread rain and thunderstorms forecast across the region. Forecasters warn that localised flooding could occur in coastal areas. Pietermaritzburg will start the day at a cool 18°C, reaching a high of 21°C, while Durban will see a peak of 25°C.
The Eastern Cape is also likely to experience stormy conditions, with temperatures in the upper teens and low 20s. Thunderstorms are predicted for central areas, while light rain may affect the south coast. Meanwhile, the Western Cape is expected to remain mostly dry, except for isolated thundery showers in some areas.
Further north, Gauteng and Limpopo will experience unsettled weather, with isolated to scattered thunderstorms forecast for Johannesburg, Pretoria, and surrounding areas.
Some parts of Limpopo, such as Giyani and Musina, are likely to remain dry, with temperatures in the mid-30s. The Free State will see similar conditions, with Bloemfontein expected to reach 31°C amid stormy weather.
Residents in affected areas are advised to prepare for possible flooding and strong winds, particularly in coastal and central regions. Authorities warn that travel and infrastructure may be disrupted and urge people to stay updated on weather alerts.
IOL