A shift in South Africa weather this weekend is expected to bring heavy rainfall to various regions.
South Africa weekend weather forecast: Here’s what you must know
After a week of scorching temperatures, significant rainfall is forecasted to start as early as tomorrow in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
HEAVY RAINFALL
The rain will spread to the Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo by Sunday. Widespread rainfall is particularly expected on Monday and Tuesday, with the possibility of flooding in central and eastern parts of the country.
Daytime temperatures are set to plummet in eastern provinces, including Gauteng. Johannesburg’s high is expected to hover around 11 to 12°C. The drop in temperatures will also affect some high-lying areas, which may see single-digit highs.
The upcoming weather changes are due to two distinct weather systems.
SNOWFALL IN EASTERN CAPE
A strong surface high-pressure system south of the country will introduce cold, moisture-laden air. Additionally, a cut-off low over the central interior will cause instability and uplift, enhancing the chances of rainfall over the eastern provinces.
The tropical nature of the airmass will add to the potential for heavy, widespread rain. Coupled with this, a significant lowering in the “freezing level” altitude is likely to result in disruptive snowfall over the Drakensberg mountains and Van Reenens Pass on the N3 highway in KZN this Sunday.
Lighter snowfall is expected in the Eastern Cape and extreme eastern Free State.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
Furthermore, windy conditions are predicted over the Highveld, creating favourable conditions for severe thunderstorms.
Provinces like the northeastern Free State, western KZN, Gauteng, and southern Limpopo might experience large hail, heavy downpours, and strong winds.
The South African Weather Service is monitoring the system. Updated warnings will be issued as necessary.