Cape Town: The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that an intense cold front is expected to make landfall on Wednesday over the south-western parts of South Africa, bringing a significant shift in weather conditions across the region.
According to South African Government News Agency, the cold front is expected to be accompanied by heavy rainfall with a risk of localized flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday, 25-26 June 2025. Head of Disaster Risk Reduction at the SAWS, Rudzani Malala, emphasized the potential hazards, cautioning the public about wet and slippery roads that may result in dangerous driving conditions.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution and adhere to safety measures as strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localized damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.
The maritime forecast includes gale-force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5.5 meters to 7.5 meters, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape. These conditions will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions. Coastal residents and beachgoers are urged to exercise caution.
As the weather system progresses eastwards, it is expected to affect the Eastern Cape, which is already vulnerable to weather-related impacts. The key concern is strong, damaging winds anticipated across most parts of the province on Thursday, 26 June 2025. Additionally, interior winds are expected to spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, 26 and 27 June 2025, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category.
The weather service has called on communities to follow daily weather reports and heed severe weather warnings. Malala stressed the importance of staying informed through various media channels and staying attuned to the advice of disaster management authorities. The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor developments and issue updates as necessary.
Impact-based weather warnings, if any, will be issued through the established system. Malala highlighted ongoing efforts to work closely with stakeholders to protect lives and property. The SAWS will continue its public education and awareness programs, collaborating with disaster management authorities, municipal emergency services, and humanitarian organizations to equip vulnerable communities with life-saving information.