POLOKWANE – Residents are advised to brace for a windy weekend, with the South African Weather Service forecasting strong gusts that will keep fire danger levels high across the city.

The forecast for Polokwane International Airport shows persistent wind speeds of between 14 and 31 knots over the next three days, with the strongest gusts expected on Saturday afternoon.

Friday

The day will start relatively calm, with wind speeds of 8 knots at 5am and 14 knots at 8am. Temperatures will climb from 17°C in the early morning to a high of 28°C in the afternoon before dropping to 17°C by evening.

Wind speeds will peak at 29 knots around 2pm and remain strong throughout the afternoon.

Saturday

Saturday will be the windiest day of the weekend. Morning wind speeds will reach 35 knots at 5am, with gusts remaining between 34 and 35 knots through the early hours. Temperatures will range from a low of 9°C in the early hours to a high of 22°C in the mid-morning.

With wind speeds of up to 35 knots expected, the fire danger is extremely high. Residents are urged to avoid any open-air burning and to report any signs of fire immediately.

Sunday

Sunday will see slightly calmer conditions, with wind speeds easing to between 12 and 22 knots. Temperatures will reach a high of 27°C, with overnight lows dropping to 14°C.

What this means for residents

The strong winds combined with dry vegetation and low humidity create ideal conditions for runaway fires. Residents are reminded that no permits will be issued. Burning includes:

• Controlled fires.
• Buring of garden waste.
• Braai in open areas.
• Burning of household rubble.

This forecast is based on data from Windfinder for Polokwane International Airport and is subject to change. Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates.