The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned about another intense cold front that is expected to hit some parts of the country from Wednesday until Friday.
In a statement, the SAWS warned that the cold front will make landfall over the south-western parts of the country, bringing a significant shift in weather conditions across the region.
“Heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday.
Wet and slippery roads may result in dangerous driving conditions, motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures.
Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees.
Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape,” read the statement.
According to service, gale force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5,5 to 7,5 metres, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape, will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions.
“As the system progresses eastwards, it will affect the Eastern Cape, a region already vulnerable to weather related impacts.
The key concern is the strong damaging winds expected across most parts of the province on Thursday.
Interior winds are expected to pick up and spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category,” explained the statement.
The adverse conditions come weeks after the devastating floods wreaked havoc in the Eastern Cape, killing more than 100 people, scores still missing, leaving hundreds of families displaced and destroyed infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, has urged communities to exercise caution.
“As government, we are deeply concerned about the possible impact of this approaching cold front.
We call on all residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, to remain alert, follow official weather updates, and take precautionary steps to protect their lives and property,” appealed Hlabisa.
Furthermore, Hlabisa also called upon municipalities, provincial disaster management centres, and all stakeholders in affected provinces to be on high alert, activate contingency plans, and ensure quick response measures are in place to assist communities in need.
