WATCH: Cold, wet conditions grip Gauteng as severe storms develop
The South African Weather Service warns of heavy rain, flooding risk and a sharp drop in temperatures through Tuesday evening.
Residents across Gauteng are being urged to remain alert as severe weather conditions are already developing across the province, with heavy rains, thunderstorms and a sharp drop in temperatures expected to intensify through the afternoon and evening.
What began as an ordinary autumn day has quickly turned into a cold, wet and potentially disruptive period, with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warning of severe thunderstorms from Tuesday afternoon until midnight.
FYI#saws #Warning #SAWeatherService #weatheroutlook pic.twitter.com/QlxECD3SRY
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) May 5, 2026
The alert, which is currently in effect (14:00–23:59), covers the entire Gauteng province and highlights the risk of localised flooding.
Temperatures take a dip
According to the SAWS, temperatures across Gauteng are expected to drop noticeably as a cold front moves through the province.
Johannesburg is seeing daytime temperatures around 21°C on Tuesday, but conditions are expected to turn much colder overnight, dropping to around 3°C on Wednesday morning, with a maximum of about 15°C.
Pretoria is following a similar pattern, with Tuesday highs around 23°C, before dropping to about 5°C on Wednesday morning and reaching a cooler 17°C during the day.
Conditions are expected to slowly improve towards the end of the week, although cold mornings will persist.
Severe weather warning in place
The SAWS says thunderstorms are currently developing in parts of Gauteng, with isolated to scattered showers becoming more widespread as the system moves through the province.
Weather forecast for tomorrow, 06 May 2026:
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) May 5, 2026
Cloudy and cold to cool with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers but widespread in places⚠️Severe thunderstorm, disruptive rain and snow, damaging winds and waves.#saws #weatheroutlook #Warning #flood pic.twitter.com/EorYcDQg4v
Forecasters warn that the storm system may bring heavy downpours, strong winds and disruptive rainfall, increasing the risk of localised flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
Safety measures urged
With the severe weather already affecting parts of the province, motorists are advised to reduce speed, keep a safe following distance and ensure vehicles are roadworthy before travelling in wet conditions.
Pedestrians are cautioned against crossing flooded streams or roads, and are encouraged to use safer alternative routes where necessary.
Residents living in flood-prone areas are also urged to remain vigilant, as water levels may rise quickly during heavy rainfall.
Emergency services on standby
The City of Ekurhuleni has appealed to residents to report any life-threatening emergencies to its call centre on 011 458 0911, as emergency services remain on high alert during this active weather period.
✅ Follow @SAWeatherServic, @GovernmentZA and public service media
— NationalCoGTA 🇿🇦 (@NationalCoGTA) May 5, 2026
❌ Do NOT share unverified information#SAWeather #FloodWarning #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/sVGD5CHNG1
