The weather on Thursday, 17 July 2025, will be marked by significant meteorological developments as a cold front moves into the Western Cape.
South Africa weather forecast: Overview of weather on Thursday, 17 July 2025
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the system will bring scattered showers, strong winds, and damaging waves, with its influence expected to spread eastwards by Friday.
Inland areas such as Johannesburg (6°C/23°C) and Pretoria (6°C/22°C) will remain fine, while coastal cities like Cape Town (12°C/17°C) face scattered rainfall and gusty winds.
This is the second major cold front this winter, following a similar event in late June.
Weather warnings issued for Thursday, 17 July 2025
- Yellow Level 2 Warning – Damaging Waves (Saldanha Bay to Plettenberg Bay): Hazardous sea conditions are forecast for the coastline between Saldanha Bay and Plettenberg Bay, posing a risk to small vessels, which may take on water or capsize. The warning will expand to include Alexander Bay by Friday. A Level 2 alert indicates a moderate probability of disruptive weather, especially for maritime operations. Mariners and coastal communities should exercise caution.
- Fire Danger Warning – Eastern Northern Cape and Western Free State: Extremely high fire danger is expected across the extreme eastern regions of the Northern Cape and the western parts of the Free State. Dry conditions, compounded by strong winds, make the ignition and rapid spread of wildfires likely. Residents in areas including Kimberley, Vryburg, and Bloemfontein should refrain from open flames and remain vigilant.
- Cold Front Advisory: Though not officially issued as an advisory, SAWS highlights that this cold front will bring thunder showers, strong winds, and colder temperatures to central and eastern regions, including KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Gauteng, by Friday. The public is urged to prepare for slippery roads and reduced visibility.
These conditions align with the seasonal forecast indicating the likelihood of cold spells and rainfall events in winter, particularly affecting the southern coastal belt and adjacent interior .