POLOKWANE – The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 4 severe thunderstorm warning for Polokwane in place for today and tomorrow morning (October 27 and 28).

The warning, according to their website, will take effect from 13:00 this afternoon to 06:59 tomorrow morning (October 28).

A Level 4 warning suggests low likelihood with significant impact.

“Thundershowers are expected to develop this afternoon and have the potential of becoming severe over vast parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga,” their warning reads.

The SAWS adds that heavy downpours, strong gusty winds and hail potential emanating from these storms will result in flooding of roads, settlements and low lying areas.

The forecast also suggests large amounts of small hail over the central and western parts of Limpopo.

“If possible stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles,” the weather service warns.

More rain and thunderstorms expected this week

The latest forecasts suggest that thundershowers could persist across Polokwane through the week, with rainfall and cloudy conditions expected from Tuesday to Friday.

Temperatures are expected to remain cool to mild, ranging between 21°C and 26°C, while additional isolated storms could develop heading into the weekend.

Read more: Rain and cooler temperatures on the way for Polokwane

The weather service has advised residents to continue monitoring updates and take necessary precautions against possible flash flooding and storm-related damage.