Johannesburg residents are being urged to take extra precautions as severe weather conditions intensify across Gauteng. The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued a yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms, with heavy downpours, strong winds, hail, and excessive lightning expected in several provinces, including Gauteng. The warning indicates that localised flooding of roads, low-lying areas, and bridges, as well as damage to settlements and infrastructure, are possible.
The strongest thunderstorms are expected to produce heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning. Residents have been advised to avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges and to seek shelter during thunderstorms. Motorists are also being urged to reduce speed, take extra care, keep their headlights on, and maintain following distances. Emergency services are on alert for any eventualities that may occur during the adverse weather conditions.
The severe weather warning covers several provinces, including North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Free State, and the Northern Cape. The storms could bring hail, localised flooding, damage to homes, and hazardous road conditions, especially where heavy rain falls over a short period. Residents are being advised to be prepared for the severe weather conditions and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
While the thunderstorms may be short-lived, much warmer temperatures are expected across the country. South Africa is bracing for one of the most powerful El Niño events on record, with scientists warning of soaring temperatures, below-normal rainfall, and mounting threats to agriculture, health, and disaster management. The impending El Niño event is expected to have significant impacts on the country.
The South African Weather Service held a media conference on Friday to discuss the latest El Niño forecast and engage representatives from weather-sensitive sectors on preparedness plans for the 2026/27 El Niño events. The conference aimed to raise awareness of the potential impacts of the El Niño event and to encourage preparedness and mitigation measures.
For Africa, the threat posed by the El Niño event will vary by region. Southern Africa is expected to face drought and extreme heat, while East Africa could experience excessive rainfall and flooding. The El Niño event is expected to have significant impacts on the region, and residents are being advised to be prepared for the potential consequences.
The South African government and relevant authorities are taking steps to mitigate the impacts of the El Niño event and the severe thunderstorms. Residents are being advised to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and warnings and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Key measures include avoiding flooded areas, seeking shelter during thunderstorms, and being prepared for extreme weather conditions.
Key points
- A powerful El Niño event is expected to bring soaring temperatures, below-normal rainfall, and mounting threats to agriculture, health, and disaster management in South Africa.
- The South African Weather Service has issued a yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy downpours, strong winds, hail, and excessive lightning in several provinces.
- Residents are being urged to take extra precautions to ensure their safety, including avoiding flooded areas and seeking shelter during thunderstorms.
