The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that the severe thunderstorms witnessed in the past weeks are expected to persist into the weekend.

The recent thunderstorms have produced excessive lightning, hail, strong damaging winds, and heavy downpours in parts of Pretoria this week, leaving a trail of destruction.

Forecaster Lungile Thabethe said Pretoria should expect warm temperatures from February 23, 2024.

“On Friday the maximum temperature will be 33°C, while we will be expecting thundershowers in the afternoon at 60%.”

“On Saturday the maximum will be 33°C, while 30% of showers are expected to persist in the afternoon,” said Thabethe.

She said on Sunday warm conditions would also persist at highs of 34 °C.

Thabethe added that a 30% chance of showers is expected in the afternoon.

National forecaster Kgolo Mahlangu warned residents to be wary of conditions linked to thunderstorms as they had the potential of becoming severe, and storms are expected to persist into the weekend.

“They may lead to localised flooding of roads and settlements, falling of trees causing damage to property and infrastructure, service disruptions due to power surges, and localised injuries, and danger to life due to lightning.”

Mahlangu said large parts of South Africa have experienced extreme heat in recent weeks, with maximum temperatures peaking above 40 degrees in places in the Northern and Western Cape.

Tshwane was also suffering extreme weather events including a prolonged period of above-normal temperatures.

“The SAWS has determined, particularly for South African conditions, that for a heatwave to be declared, the maximum temperature at a particular station should reach or exceed the average maximum temperature for the hottest month, for three or more consecutive days”.

“These conditions have been happening over parts of the country in the past weeks and are expected to continue until Saturday, in the North West, Free State, and Northern Cape. However, it should be noted that although some places do not meet the technical definition of a heatwave, they are also expected to experience extreme heat.”

Mahlangu advised the public to take the necessary precautions, which include staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities during the hottest time of the day, wearing appropriate clothing, and keeping an eye on vulnerable individuals.

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