Plan for warm, partly cloudy weather on Heritage Day (24-09-2026). The South African Weather Service expects mostly warm conditions across much of the country, with isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms possible over central and eastern districts. People attending outdoor events should prepare for sun exposure and the chance of afternoon storms.
What you need to do
Practical steps to stay safe and comfortable:
- Carry sun protection: hat, sunscreen and sunglasses — UVB levels are elevated in parts of the country.
- Where thunderstorms are forecast, avoid open fields, high ground and isolated trees; seek shelter in a substantial building or vehicle.
- If you are in or travelling through northern Limpopo (Musina and Thulamela), follow local restrictions and avoid open flames — extremely high fire danger has been issued for the area.
National picture and warnings
The weather service warns of extremely high fire danger over the Musina and Thulamela municipalities in Limpopo for Thursday. No other national impact-based warnings or advisories were issued in the latest bulletin.
"The region’s expected UVB sunburn index is 'very high'"
Where the bulletin used a quoted UVB classification, residents in affected provinces should be mindful of the increased risk of sunburn and take appropriate precautions.
Province-by-province summary for Thursday, 24-09-2026
The following reflects the weather service's regional guidance; conditions vary between provinces and within regions of each province.
| Province | Main forecast | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | Partly cloudy and warm | UVB sunburn index: high |
| Mpumalanga | Morning fog patches in southern areas; otherwise partly cloudy and cool, warm in the Lowveld | Isolated afternoon showers/thundershowers |
| Limpopo | Partly cloudy, warm to hot | Isolated showers/thundershowers in south and central; extremely high fire danger in Musina and Thulamela |
| North West | Fine and warm | Generally dry |
| Free State | Partly cloudy and warm | Isolated showers/thundershowers in the south and along Lesotho border |
| Northern Cape | Partly cloudy; cool to warm, hot in the north | Isolated showers/thundershowers in west and south |
| Western Cape | Cloudy with morning fog in west and south; otherwise partly cloudy and cool to warm | Very high UVB along parts of the province; isolated showers in extreme north-east |
| Eastern Cape | Western half cloudy with fog and light rain along the coast; otherwise fine and warm | Cooler along the coast |
| KwaZulu‑Natal | Partly cloudy and warm | Isolated coastal showers possible |
The table summarises the main points from the weather service bulletin. Local conditions can change quickly; check updates from SAWS or local authorities if you have planned outdoor activities.
Health and travel reminders
High to very high UVB levels in parts of the country mean people should limit midday sun exposure and use protective clothing and sunscreen. Thunderstorm-prone areas may see sudden heavy rain, lightning and gusty winds — these can reduce visibility and affect travel, especially on rural routes.
For those in or near the affected Limpopo municipalities, avoid burning vegetation or using open flames and heed any local fire-safety instructions. Emergency services should be contacted through the normal SAPS or municipal channels if immediate danger arises.
Monitor the SA Weather Service for the latest forecasts and warnings through Thursday, 24-09-2026, and follow municipal or traffic updates if you are travelling for Heritage Day.
