Free State residents have been warned to prepare for a spell of very cold and windy weather that may include snowfall and disruptive rainfall in parts of the province, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said on Monday.
Where the worst conditions are expected
SAWS forecast that showers and isolated thunderstorms will clear from the west on Thursday, but colder, gusty conditions will persist. The agency named Phuthaditjhaba, Wepener, Clarens, Aliwal North and Smithfield among the areas likely to be affected.
“Isolated to scattered showers and thunder showers across the province are expected to clear from the west on Thursday. This system will also result in very cold and windy conditions over much of the province with snowfall expected over the western and eastern parts of the province as well as along the Lutu border persisting until Wednesday,” said forecaster Muneiwa Singo.
SAWS has issued warnings to alert communities and municipal services to the potential impacts.
Warning levels and likely impacts
Two Yellow Level 2 warnings have been put in place for parts of the Free State: one for damaging winds and another for disruptive rainfall across southern and eastern parts of the province. Yellow Level 2 alerts indicate potentially hazardous weather that could lead to localised impacts.
- Very cold and windy conditions across much of the province
- Snowfall expected in western and eastern high-lying areas and along the Lutu border
- Disruptive rainfall over southern and eastern areas
Residents in affected towns should expect sudden temperature drops, strong gusts and wet roads; those travelling through mountain passes or higher-altitude routes should take extra care.
What authorities and communities should consider
Local municipalities, road authorities and emergency services are typically put on alert during such systems. Practical measures commonly advised in these conditions include ensuring adequate heating and shelter for vulnerable people, securing loose outdoor items that could be blown away by strong gusts, and checking drainage to limit localised flooding from heavy rain.
Motorists should drive cautiously on wet or icy roads, reduce speed in strong winds, keep headlights on and allow greater stopping distances. Where snowfall is reported, avoid travelling unless essential and follow official advice on road closures or delays.
At-a-glance: warnings by hazard
| Hazard | Warning level | Typical impacts |
|---|---|---|
| Damaging winds | Yellow Level 2 | Roof damage, fallen trees, hazardous driving conditions |
| Disruptive rainfall | Yellow Level 2 | Local flooding, slippery roads, reduced visibility |
| Snowfall (high-lying areas) | Advisory | Snow accumulation on routes, travel disruptions |
Practical information for residents
Households should check emergency kits, protect pipes from freezing where relevant and ensure mobile phones are charged for possible contact with emergency services. Farmers and livestock owners in high-lying areas should consider sheltering animals and securing fodder supplies where possible.
Schools and public facilities in affected towns may consider contingency plans if conditions deteriorate; parents and guardians should monitor official channels for updates from the Department of Education and local authorities.
SAWS will continue to monitor the system and issue updates as conditions evolve. Local communities are advised to follow official advisories and to take sensible precautions until the warnings are lifted.
Report compiled from the SAWS advisory and local weather briefings.
