The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has cautioned that a low-pressure system currently located over the southern parts of Mozambique is expected to significantly influence weather conditions over north-eastern South Africa over the coming days.
According to the SAWS, current weather forecasts indicate that the Lowveld of Mpumalanga, the Limpopo Valley, and most eastern parts of Limpopo are likely to experience widespread and persistent rain and thunderstorms, up to at least Wednesday, or even beyond.
“For these regions, significant rainfall accumulations are expected throughout the week, beginning from Sunday evening.
The SAWS has already issued severe weather warnings for severe thunderstorms, as well as an orange level 6 warning for Sunday, with anticipated impacts including flooding leading to damage to infrastructure and settlements as well as injuries and danger to life,” said SAWS Forecaster, Lehlohonolo Thobela.
Furthermore, Thobela highlighted that there is a possibility that warnings may be escalated to indicate the likelihood of severe impacts in parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga from Monday, depending on the evolution of the system and forecast confidence.
The service also added that this weather system may also affect the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal from Tuesday, when heavy rains would be possible.
The SAWS said it’ll continue to closely monitor this evolving weather system and provide regular updates to ensure public safety and preparedness.
“Members of the public and stakeholders are strongly urged to continuously monitor official SAWS forecasts and warmings, as warnings will be updated as the likelihood and severity of impacts become clearer.
The public is also advised to remain cautious of unauthorised or unverified information sources and refrain distributing such information further,” cautioned Thobela.
Meanwhile, the Kruger National Park has implemented proactive measures, to ensure the safety of guests and staff, in light of the severe weather warnings.
“As a precaution, Shingwedzi, Sirheni, and Bateleur Camps have been evacuated to avoid challenges in the event of flooding, while guests at Balule and Pafuri are given the option to stay, as these areas are not at risk.
Guests and staff at the following bush camps, Talamati, Mbiyamiti, and Roodewal, will be moved to Satara and Lower Sabie Rest Camps, as they can be accessed from Tshokwane,” read a statement from the park.
The Park said plans are already in place too, for guests flying in and out of Skukuza Airport, and all concessions are part of the Disaster Management Committee.
