The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms that are expected to bring heavy downpours, strong and damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning to various parts of the country on Tuesday. These weather conditions may cause localised damage to settlements and infrastructure in several provinces, including North West, Gauteng, the Mpumalanga Highveld, south-western Limpopo, the northern Free State, and the far north-eastern parts of the Northern Cape.
According to SAWS, showers and thundershowers are expected across Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and Limpopo, with severe storms possible over the Mpumalanga Highveld, south-western Limpopo, and Gauteng. The weather service has warned that these thundershowers may produce large amounts of small hail, excessive lightning, strong gusty winds, and heavy downpours, which could lead to localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas, and bridges.
The public and stakeholders are strongly urged to monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings, as updates will be issued when the likelihood and severity of the impacts become clearer. The public is also advised to avoid unauthorised or unverified information sources and to refrain from sharing unverified information. This warning comes as the country prepares for the summer season, which often brings severe weather conditions.
SAWS has indicated that conditions are favourable for severe storms in North West, the northern Free State, and the north-eastern parts of the Northern Cape. Heavy downpours, strong and damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning may cause localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas, and bridges, as well as damage to settlements and infrastructure.
The warning issued by SAWS highlights the importance of being prepared for severe weather conditions. The public is advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. This includes staying informed about weather conditions, having a plan in place in case of an emergency, and being aware of potential hazards such as flooding and strong winds.
The South African government has also urged citizens to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate the impacts of severe weather conditions. This includes being aware of weather forecasts and warnings, and taking steps to protect life and property. The government has also assured citizens that it is working to mitigate the impacts of severe weather conditions and provide support to those affected.
As the situation continues to unfold, SAWS will provide updates and warnings to the public. Citizens are advised to stay tuned to local news and weather reports for further updates and to follow the instructions of local authorities. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, citizens can minimise the risks associated with severe weather conditions.
Key points
- SAWS warns of severe thunderstorms with heavy rain, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning across parts of the country.
- The public is urged to monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
- The severe weather conditions may cause localised flooding and damage to settlements and infrastructure.
