POLOKWANE – Residents in Polokwane and the rest of Limpopo should prepare for a steep drop in temperature this weekend and possible wet weather into next week as a strong cold front approaches the country.

Despite widely spread reports of snow across all nine provinces, several weather channels have stated that it is not true.

Vox Weather, for example, explained that advanced snow forecasts, particularly more than five days ahead, are often subject to significant change.

“Our approach, as meteorologists, to snow forecasting involves more than just looking at model snowfall outputs. We analyse the synoptic system expected (e.g. a cold front or cut-off low), the availability and timing of precipitation and the freezing levels (the altitude at which temperatures are cold enough for snow to form and reach the ground). These factors must all align for snowfall to be possible. A shift in any of them can lead to significant changes in where snow may fall – or if it occurs at all,” a post explained.

According to their forecast, a cold front is expected to move into South Africa on Friday with a strong ridging high-pressure system to follow that will introduce colder air over southern South Africa this weekend.

Meanwhile, Storm Report SA said advanced forecasts are not accurate and often lead to unnecessary panic among the public.

Forecast for this weekend: Cold and wet weather expected

While it’s highly likely that Polokwane and the rest of Limpopo won’t see snow, the province will not escape the icy grip of the anticipated system.

Temperatures in Polokwane are expected to drop to daytime highs of just 14°C on Sunday (July 27) before dropping to a mere 13°C on Monday (July 28).

According to AccuWeather’s forecast, Polokwane will see four days of maximum temperatures in the low to mid teens before warming up next Thursday and into next weekend.

In addition to icy temperatures, the cold front is also set to bring rain along with it, with showers expected on Monday (55%), Tuesday (56%) and Wednesday (40%).

In Mokopane, highs of 15°C to 19°C are expected between Sunday and Tuesday with thunderstorms likely on Sunday morning and afternoon.

In Tzaneen, highs in the mid teens are expected with a high chance of showers.

Steady rain is expected on Monday (80%) with showers also expected on Sunday (40%) and Tuesday (55%).

Residents are encouraged to take precaution and dress warmly, especially children who have returned to school.

The South African Weather Service is yet to release a statement on the anticipated cold snap.