South Africans have been urged to remain vigilant as a powerful weather system is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding, damaging winds, and severe thunderstorms across several provinces this week.
The warning follows an alert issued by the South African Weather Service, which forecast that a cut-off low-pressure system would move across large parts of the country from Monday until Thursday.
The system is expected to begin in the Western Cape before spreading to the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, and other central and eastern regions between Tuesday and Wednesday.
Severe weather raises flooding concerns
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa said government authorities are closely monitoring the situation as dangerous weather conditions intensify.
According to the weather service, widespread rainfall could exceed 100-200 mm in some areas over 24 hours, particularly in parts of the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Free State.
“This may result in widespread flooding. In addition, damaging winds and very rough sea conditions are expected, particularly along the south coast of the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape coastline,” SAWS warned.
Forecasters also cautioned that severe thunderstorms could trigger localised flooding, hail, strong winds, and intense lightning in affected communities.
The Eastern Cape coastline and nearby inland areas are expected to face some of the strongest impacts between Tuesday and Wednesday, while parts of the Western Cape may continue experiencing harsh weather conditions until Thursday.
Emergency teams placed on high alert
Hlabisa said disaster management teams and emergency services across the country have already been activated in preparation for possible incidents linked to the storm system.
“Emergency services and disaster management teams have been placed on high alert to respond to any incidents that may arise,” Hlabisa said.
He added that communities should cooperate with authorities should evacuations become necessary in high-risk areas.
“We call on all residents, especially those in high-risk and low-lying areas, to remain vigilant and prioritise their safety at all times,” he said.
Public urged to follow official safety advice
Residents have been advised to avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, while motorists have been urged to drive carefully during heavy rain and poor visibility.
Authorities also encouraged people to secure outdoor furniture and loose objects that could become dangerous during strong winds.
Hlabisa further warned against spreading false information online and urged the public to rely only on verified updates from SAWS and official government communication channels.
“We urge all South Africans to act responsibly, stay informed, and look out for one another during this period. Early caution and preparedness can save lives,” he said.
