POLOKWANE – Polokwane residents are urged to prepare for dangerous weather conditions as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 5 severe thunderstorm warning for Polokwane and large parts of central Limpopo for tomorrow (November 24).

According to the SAWS, the warning indicates a medium likelihood with significant impact.

The system is expected to develop from late morning into the afternoon and may intensify as it moves across the city.

What residents should expect

The SAWS says the storm may bring:

• Heavy downpours capable of causing sudden localised flooding

• Damaging winds strong enough to uproot trees, damage roofs, and topple structures

• Large hail, which may cause injuries, damage vehicles and homes

• Dangerous lightning

• Flooding of low-lying bridges, roads, settlements and informal structures

The weather service warns that road conditions may deteriorate quickly, and reduced visibility could make driving hazardous.

Polokwane’s weather tomorrow

According to AccuWeather’s forecast, a couple of heavy thunderstorms, variable cloudiness and breezy conditions are expected on Monday, with thunderstorms bringing flooding downpours, hail and damaging wind gusts.

A high of 29°C is expected with a low of 16°C and a 91% chance of rain.

AccuWeather’s forecast also suggests a total of 9.4mm of rain during the day and a heavy thunderstorm in the evening.

The mercury is expected to drop on Tuesday to 24°C with cloudy conditions expected and a thunderstorm in spots.

Residents urged to stay alert

Those living in flood-prone areas, especially informal settlements or near rivers and drainage channels, are advised to take extra precautions.

SAWS also reminds the public to:

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms

• Avoid crossing flooded roads or low-water bridges

• Secure outdoor items that may be blown away

• Unplug electronics to prevent lightning damage.

Disclaimer: This is a weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service. Severe weather forecasts indicate possible, not guaranteed, storm conditions.