Image Source: SABC News
Gauteng – South Africa is expected to experience increased rainfall from 18 to 24 December, according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS). Parts of Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, the eastern Free State, eastern North West, and southern and western Limpopo are forecast to receive between 70–150 mm of rain.
While this rainfall will bring much-needed relief, it also increases the risk of flooding, and residents are encouraged to stay updated with weather forecasts and warnings.
“This substantial rainfall increase is likely to elevate the risk of flooding. As a result, the public is strongly urged to stay informed by following short-term weather forecasts and any warnings issued by the South African Weather Service.”
Widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga on Thursday, with scattered storms likely in Gauteng, the Free State, and southern Limpopo. These storms could bring heavy downpours, localised flooding, damaging winds, and hail in some areas.
By Friday, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to persist in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and eastern North West, with light rain along the south coast.
“The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required.”
This rain comes after a prolonged period of extreme heat and dry conditions. A two-week heat wave in early December broke temperature records across several provinces, leaving large parts of the central and eastern interior struggling with drought-like conditions and critically low water levels in dams and rivers.
Unfortunately, the dry trend is set to continue over the central interior, with only isolated thunderstorms predicted. In the eastern provinces, the rainfall and accompanying cloud cover are expected to bring cooler temperatures, providing welcome relief from the recent heat wave.
