The weather across South Africa on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, is dominated by dry and hot conditions inland, with highs approaching 30°C in several provinces.
However, the primary concern lies in extremely high fire danger warnings, which extend across Limpopo, North West, the western Free State, and the eastern Northern Cape.
These conditions elevate the risk of fast-spreading wildfires. Along the coast, moderate to strong winds and partly cloudy skies are expected, particularly affecting KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
Weather warnings issued for Tuesday, 26 August 2025
- Extremely High Fire Danger Conditions
- Fires can ignite easily, spread quickly, and become uncontrollable under these conditions.
- Affected areas include:
- Limpopo: Most regions, including Polokwane and surrounding towns.
- North West: Including Mahikeng and Vryburg, where windy weather will exacerbate the fire risk.
- Free State: Western areas such as Bloemfontein, at risk due to dry and windy conditions.
- Northern Cape: Eastern parts, including Kimberley and Upington, where strong winds and heat combine to heighten fire hazards.
- Residents are advised to avoid open flames, braais, or agricultural burns, as these could quickly escalate into dangerous fires.
Regional highlights
- Gauteng: Pretoria 28°C, Johannesburg 29°C – fine and hot, with a high UV index.
- Mpumalanga & Limpopo: Mbombela 24°C, Polokwane 27°C – fine, warm to hot conditions.
- North West & Free State: Mahikeng 29°C, Bloemfontein 28°C – windy and partly cloudy by afternoon.
- Northern Cape: Kimberley 30°C, Upington 33°C – windy with fire risk, clearing later.
- Western Cape: Cape Town 18°C – fine, moderate southerly winds.
- Eastern Cape: Gqeberha 19°C, East London 20°C – partly cloudy with shifting winds.
- KwaZulu-Natal: Durban 21°C, Richards Bay 22°C – partly cloudy with isolated showers along the coast.
- Pietermaritzburg: 21°C – morning fog patches, otherwise partly cloudy.
As late August continues, the contrast between dry, fire-prone interiors and wetter, windy coasts becomes more pronounced. Inland heat and wind raise wildfire risks, while KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape face localised rain and coastal winds. This duality highlights the importance of vigilance against fires inland and preparedness for shifting winds at sea and along the shoreline.
