Pack the jersey, grab the umbrella: Storms are coming
Cold front brings heavy downpours, strong winds and potential flooding to several regions.
Motorists and commuters face hazardous travel conditions as severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and much cooler temperatures affect parts of northern South Africa.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms for Tuesday, September 29, and Wednesday, September 30. The warning covers Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with the latest impact-based warning also identifying parts of North West, the Free State and the Northern Cape.
Heavy downpours, strong and potentially damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning are expected to accompany the storms. SAWS warned that conditions could result in localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges, as well as localised damage to settlements and infrastructure.
The weather system follows a cold front that moved into the northern parts of the country from Monday evening, September 28. Stormy conditions intensified overnight into Tuesday morning, with severe thunderstorms expected across affected areas.
Cloudy and cold conditions are expected in Gauteng, with scattered showers and thundershowers. Limpopo is expected to experience cloudy and cold conditions, with isolated showers and thundershowers that become scattered in the south-western and south-central parts. Mpumalanga is also expected to be cloudy and cold, with scattered showers and thundershowers.
MISA calls for caution on roads
The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) urged the public to remain cautious and vigilant when travelling to and from work during the stormy conditions.
MISA CEO for Operations Martlé Keyter said the safety of workers and their families should remain the highest priority during severe weather.
“Many of our members travel long distances to and from work every day, often during adverse weather conditions. We urge everyone to place their safety first and not take unnecessary risks by attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges or rivers,” said Keyter.
The public is urged to monitor weather warnings and road conditions, particularly where heavy rain and thunderstorms are occurring. The combination of heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail and lightning could create hazardous travelling conditions and increase the risk of localised flooding.
