Cold front sweeps across South Africa, bringing snow and severe storms

This morning, residents across various regions of South Africa were met with a wintry surprise as a cold front swept into the country, coating cars and rooftops in a blanket of snow.

While some communities revelled in the unusual sight, others braced for the darker side of this severe weather system, which has brought warnings of dangerous thunderstorms and strong winds.

Motorists are being cautioned to approach their journeys with extreme caution. A clear warning has been issued by authorities, urging drivers to assess road conditions prior to hitting the highways.

Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), warned of the potential hazards that these weather conditions are likely to bring.

“The weather conditions may impact road safety, and could result in traffic congestion, delays, and temporary road closures should driving conditions become treacherous,” Dhoogra stated.

She further encouraged motorists to ensure their vehicles are equipped with essential emergency supplies, including water, food, warm clothing, blankets, mobile phone chargers, and first aid kits.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has not taken these developments lightly, issuing multiple weather warnings targeted at various regions across the country.

Among the alerts is an Orange Level 6 warning for the Eastern Cape, specifically highlighting the Joe Gqabi district municipality, Enoch Mgijima (Molteno), and the Matatiele local municipalities. Authorities expect disruptive snow that could pose danger to life, lead to pass closures, and cut off communities.

Orange Level 6 warnings for disruptive rain have been declared, with anticipated flooding in settlements, roads, and significant dangers expected for life across the Amathole, OR Tambo, and Buffalo City districts of the Eastern Cape.

Other regions facing severe weather challenges include Alfred Nzo, Makana, Ndlambe, Kouga, and Koukamma municipalities, where disruptive rain and potential mudslides are anticipated under an Orange Level 5 alert.

Western Cape regions are also preparing for impacts, with Yellow Level 2 and 4 warnings issued for disruptive snow, rain, and damaging winds. These alerts indicate the potential for localised flooding, loss of livestock, and disruptive conditions on roads leading to further transportation challenges.

For the coastal provinces, the situation appears similarly daunting. A Yellow Level 4 warning has been announced for damaging winds and waves along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, which were expected to lead to disruptions at small harbours and pose risks to local vessels.

Meanwhile, in the southern parts of KZN, Orange Level 5 warnings predict further potentially life-threatening conditions due to gusty winds causing debris hazards, structural damages, and loss of agricultural output.

Throughout the affected areas, authorities are keeping a close watch, urging residents to stay informed and prepared for worsening conditions. As multiple municipalities face the threat of damaging winds, rain, and snow, communities are reminded to prioritise their safety and heed weather warnings. Preparing for emergencies can significantly mitigate the risks posed by such unpredictable winter weather.

In the face of severe weather sweeping across South Africa, communities are urged to prepare for disruptive snow, rain, and storms. Stay informed and safe as this cold front brings chilling challenges and potential dangers.

DAILY NEWS