Two weeks after devastating floods left 101 people dead and hundreds more missing, the Eastern Cape is once again on high alert.
SAWS warns of extreme weather in the Eastern Cape
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that another strong cold front will move through the province starting Wednesday, 25 June 2025.
This new weather system is expected to bring very cold temperatures, strong winds, heavy sea conditions, and snowfall to certain areas. The warning is especially urgent because many communities are still trying to recover from the earlier disaster.
What to expect from the cold front
According to SAWS, the cold front will first hit on Wednesday, bringing strong to gale force winds across parts of the province.
These winds are powerful enough to cause damage to buildings — especially in areas with informal housing — and may also lead to runaway fires in dry conditions.
From Thursday into Friday, the cold front will pass through the Eastern Cape, followed by a high-pressure system.
This will push cold air across the region, causing cold to very cold temperatures, especially in the high-lying northern areas.
Snowfalls of 1 to 5 cm are expected over the high ground, particularly in Senqu and Elundini.
This could lead to icy roads, making travel risky and potentially leading to the loss of livestock and crops in rural areas.
Warnings issued
SAWS has issued several impact-based warnings:
- A Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging winds on 25 and 26 June affecting Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, Sarah Baartman, Raymond Mhlaba, and Amahlathi municipalities. Coastal areas between Plettenberg Bay and East London will also be affected.
- A Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging waves and strong winds at sea on 26 June. Small boats may struggle to navigate safely and risk capsizing.
- A Yellow Level 1 warning for disruptive snow on 26 June, with possible road blockages and agricultural lossesin mountain areas.
A community still recovering
The Eastern Cape is still reeling from the flood disaster earlier this month, where torrential rains caused widespread destruction. In Mthatha, another body was recovered by rescuers on Tuesday, bringing the death toll to at least 101.
Thousands were left homeless after homes, roads, and schools were washed away.
The national government declared a state of disaster across several provinces, including the Eastern Cape, allowing emergency funding for rescue and recovery.
“Since 9 June, this province has been hit hard by unprecedented, catastrophic and unimaginable disasters,” said Zolile Williams, a provincial executive member, at a memorial service in Mthatha last week.
What people should do
SAWS is urging the public, especially small-scale farmers, to prepare for the upcoming cold and windy conditions. People are advised to:
- Stay indoors where possible
- Protect livestock and cover crops
- Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in snow-affected regions
- Follow weather alerts on official channels
The public is reminded that extreme weather can change quickly. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed.
