Act now to stay safe: secure loose items outdoors, avoid driving through flooded roads, and seek shelter during lightning and hail. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an impact‑based Yellow (Level 2) warning for severe thunderstorms affecting at least five provinces on Saturday, bringing heavy downpours, strong damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning.
Where and what to expect
SAWS reported that the warning covers parts of the Northern Cape, northern areas of the Western Cape, western sections of the Free State, extreme western parts of the North West, and extreme southern parts of KwaZulu‑Natal in the evening. The service said the storms could produce localised flooding on susceptible roads, low‑lying areas and bridges, and could cause damage to settlements and infrastructure.
"Scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected across parts of the central and western interior of South Africa from today through Sunday morning." — SA Weather Service
SAWS uses a colour‑coded system to signal risk. A Yellow warning indicates there is a moderate risk of impact that requires caution and awareness. The agency said heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning will be possible where storms form or become intense.
Practical safety advice
- Avoid driving through flooded roads or across bridges where water is flowing; even shallow water can stall vehicles.
- Bring in or secure loose outdoor items such as garden furniture, signage and temporary structures.
- Stay indoors during lightning and seek shelter away from windows during hail; protect vehicles where possible.
- If you are caught outdoors, avoid open fields, high places and isolated tall objects; do not shelter under solitary trees.
- Monitor official SAWS updates and heed local authority instructions on road closures and evacuations.
In addition to the Yellow warning, the SAWS forecast indicates scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms across central and western parts of the country from Friday into Sunday morning. The western interior may see widespread activity at times.
Provincial snapshot and temperatures
The following table lists selected forecast temperatures provided by SAWS for Saturday to help you plan activities and travel:
| Province / City | Minimum–Maximum (°C) |
|---|---|
| Gauteng — Pretoria | 14–28°C |
| Gauteng — Johannesburg | 13–26°C |
| Mpumalanga — Mbombela | 19–28°C |
| Limpopo — Polokwane | 18–28°C |
| Limpopo — Lephalale | 21–34°C |
SAWS also warned of extremely high fire danger in western parts of the North West and in the extreme northeastern Northern Cape. Where thunderstorms are accompanied by strong, gusty winds, there is potential for spot fires and rapid fire spread in dry areas.
Consequences and preparations
Heavy, short‑duration downpours can cause rapid run‑off and ponding in low‑lying suburbs and informal settlements that have poor drainage. Drivers should be prepared for sudden pooling of water on roads and reduced visibility in heavy rain. Hail can dent vehicles and damage roofs, while excessive lightning increases risk to people working outdoors and can disrupt power and telecommunications temporarily.
Municipalities and emergency services are likely to prioritise flood‑prone routes and critical infrastructure. Residents living near rivers, bridges and drainage lines should remain alert to changes in water levels and avoid crossing flowing water.
Keep a battery‑powered radio or charged mobile phone for updates, and plan alternatives if travel is necessary. Check with local authorities if you live in a known flood‑risk area.
SAWS will continue to issue updates as the situation develops; monitor official channels and follow instructions from emergency services and local government.
