Orange Level 5 Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Parts of South Africa

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for parts of the country, with an Orange Level 5 warning in effect for the far eastern parts of the Free State, western KwaZulu-Natal, and the Highveld of Mpumalanga. This warning cautions residents about possible flooding of roads, settlements, and low-lying areas. The unsettled weather is expected to continue into Monday, particularly across the eastern and inland provinces.

A Level 2 warning also affects parts of North West, the Free State, southern Limpopo, north-eastern Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and southern KwaZulu-Natal. Residents are urged to exercise caution as heavy rainfall could disrupt travel and electricity supply. The warnings were issued due to the likelihood of severe thunderstorms, which could bring heavy rain, strong winds, and hail.

On Sunday, November 15, several major provincial centres can expect varied weather conditions. Gauteng, including Johannesburg, will experience warm conditions with showers and thundershowers, reaching around 26°C. KwaZulu-Natal, particularly Durban, will see cloudy conditions and showers, with a high of approximately 24°C. Western Cape, specifically Cape Town, can expect sunny conditions, with temperatures reaching around 25°C, and possible windy conditions.

Eastern Cape, particularly Gqeberha, can expect showers and temperatures of around 23°C. Free State, specifically Bloemfontein, will experience warm to hot conditions, with possible thundershowers and a high of 31°C. Limpopo, particularly Polokwane, can expect scattered showers and thundershowers, with temperatures reaching 27°C. Mpumalanga, specifically Mbombela, is forecast to experience showers and rain, with a high of approximately 24°C.

On Monday, November 16, the new working week is expected to bring more showers and thundershowers to parts of the country. Gauteng, including Johannesburg, can expect showers and thundershowers, with a high of around 26°C. KwaZulu-Natal, particularly Durban, is forecast to experience showers and thundershowers, reaching 25°C. Western Cape, specifically Cape Town, will enjoy sunny conditions, with a high of approximately 24°C and increasing winds.

Residents are urged to exercise caution, especially motorists, when travelling in areas experiencing heavy rainfall and to avoid crossing flooded roads. The SAWS has advised residents to monitor weather updates, particularly in areas affected by severe thunderstorm warnings. This will help ensure public safety and minimize potential damage to property.

The severe thunderstorm warnings are a reminder of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather conditions. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. By doing so, they can minimize the risks associated with severe thunderstorms and ensure a safe and smooth passage through the inclement weather.

Key points

• Orange Level 5 thunderstorm warning issued for parts of South Africa
• Severe thunderstorm warnings issued for several provinces
• Residents urged to exercise caution and monitor weather updates