The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that a cold front accompanied by a cut-off low, which produced heavy snowfall in the Eastern Cape on Monday, will continue to affect large parts of the country and bring damaging winds to areas of the Northern Cape.
What SAWS says
SAWS reported that the same weather system is expected to affect the Free State, Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, southern parts of Gauteng and Mpumalanga, and the interior of KwaZulu-Natal.
“The public and small stock farmers are advised that very cold and windy conditions, snowfall over ...”
The forecast made clear that while the worst snowfall is concentrated in parts of the Eastern Cape, the wider system may cause hazardous travel conditions, localised interruptions to essential services and damage to exposed infrastructure where strong winds occur.
Local implications for the Northern Cape
Although heavy snow warnings have been issued mainly for the Eastern Cape — including a level 6 warning for disruptive snowfall over the Chris Hani District and several municipalities — Northern Cape communities should heed SAWS’ warning about strong winds and sharp temperature drops. Such conditions can:
- lead to power outages where overhead networks are exposed to high winds;
- create difficult driving conditions on open roads because of reduced visibility and gusts affecting high-sided vehicles;
- pose a risk to farm infrastructure and small livestock exposed to cold, windy weather.
Local emergency services and municipal teams often receive an increased number of calls during these systems. Residents in vulnerable areas should check with their municipality about contingency arrangements and the status of essential services if winds strengthen.
Practical steps to take now
SAWS’ statement focused on broad hazards. To reduce disruption and risk, residents and farmers in the Northern Cape are advised to consider the following precautions:
- Secure loose outdoor items that could be blown over or cause damage in strong gusts.
- Ensure generators, heating equipment and fuel are serviced and used safely where electricity supply may be interrupted.
- Avoid unnecessary travel if severe winds are forecast; if you must travel, allow extra time and be cautious when overtaking high-sided vehicles.
- Keep vulnerable livestock in sheltered areas and ensure adequate feed and water.
- Stay informed via SAWS updates, municipal alerts and local radio for changes to the forecast.
| Area | Primary hazard |
|---|---|
| Eastern Cape (selected districts) | Heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, icy roads |
| KwaZulu-Natal coast | Damaging winds and rough seas affecting harbour operations |
| Northern Cape (parts) | Damaging winds; very cold conditions |
SAWS also cautioned that the broader system could bring heavy rain with localised flooding in parts of the Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal, and thunderstorms in parts of the North West, Free State and Gauteng. Damaging winds were forecast for parts of the Northern Cape, Free State and the western North West.
Where to get updates
Residents should monitor official channels for the latest warnings: SAWS’ bulletins, municipal emergency communications, local radio stations and authoritative social media accounts. In the event of infrastructure damage or immediate danger, contact your local municipality or emergency services.
As the system evolves over the next 24–48 hours, conditions may change rapidly. Heed official advice, avoid putting yourself at unnecessary risk, and check on neighbours and vulnerable community members who may need assistance during very cold and windy conditions.
Reporting from Kimberley.
