Johannesburg: The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms over the central and southern parts of the Northern Cape. The warning anticipates a high likelihood of minor impacts, including damaging winds, hail, and heavy downpours that may lead to localized flooding. The likelihood of these impacts is expected to decrease to medium by Tuesday afternoon.
According to South African Government News Agency, the weather outlook for the week indicates a variety of conditions across the country. On Monday, there is a low chance of flooding (40%) in the central and western parts of the Northern Cape. This risk extends into Tuesday with a low to medium chance (40%) of flooding in the central and southern regions of the Northern Cape.
The weather patterns indicate that on Wednesday, there is a low to medium chance (40% - 60%) of flooding in the western parts of the Northern Cape, the eastern half of the Eastern Cape, and the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal. On Thursday and Friday, the risk of flooding remains low (40%) in KwaZulu-Natal, the Highveld of Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape, respectively.
Severe thunderstorms are also a concern, with low chances (40%) expected in the central and western parts of the Northern Cape on Monday. The risk increases slightly on Tuesday with a low to medium chance (40% - 60%) in the central and southern parts of the province. The probability of thunderstorms remains consistent throughout the week across various regions.
Additionally, winds not associated with thunderstorms are anticipated along the east and south coast of South Africa with a low to medium chance (40% - 60%) on Monday. This pattern continues into the week with varying degrees of likelihood across different coastal areas.
Members of the public and stakeholders are urged to monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings closely. Updates will be made as the likelihood and severity of impacts become more apparent, ensuring that necessary precautions can be taken.