Daily Weather

Weather Alert: Rain, Cold Front and Rough Seas Headed for Cape Provinces – South Africa, Friday 11 July 2025

South Africa faces a series of impactful weather conditions today and over the coming days. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple warnings and advisories affecting various provinces, highlighting rough seas, cold fronts, rain, thunderstorms, and temperature fluctuations. This article provides a detailed update on these weather alerts to help residents prepare and stay safe.

Rough Seas and Coastal Warnings

Rough seas are expected along the coastline between the three Capes until Saturday. SAWS has issued yellow level 1 and 2 warnings for damaging waves from Hondeklip Bay in the Northern Cape to Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape, extending to Hamburg in the Eastern Cape. Small vessels face significant risks of capsizing or taking on water, and disruptions to ports and harbours are anticipated. Mariners and coastal communities should exercise caution and heed these warnings strictly.

Cold Front and Wet Weather in the Western and Northern Cape

A cold front is sweeping through the southern parts of the Northern Cape and the Western Cape, bringing very cold, wet, and windy conditions. The Namakwa District in the Northern Cape, along with the Witzenberg and Breede Valley municipalities and the Koue Bokkeveld area in the Western Cape, are expected to experience these harsh conditions. Scattered showers and rain will affect the south-western parts of the Western Cape, while the north-east remains dry.

Rain and Isolated Showers in the Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape will see varied weather. The western half will experience morning fog in some southern areas, followed by partly cloudy, windy, and cool to cold conditions with isolated showers and rain. The eastern half will have partly cloudy and cool to warm weather, with isolated showers south of the escarpment. Residents should prepare for wet roads and reduced visibility in foggy areas.

Thunderstorms and Severe Weather in Eastern and Central Provinces

Severe thunderstorms are forecast for parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, and the Free State. Yellow level 2 warnings have been issued for damaging winds, hail, excessive lightning, and heavy downpours, particularly in the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape and western KwaZulu-Natal. These storms pose risks of localised damage to infrastructure, vehicles, and settlements, as well as dangers to life due to lightning strikes. Flooding of low-lying roads and bridges is also possible.

Temperature Overview Across Provinces

Gauteng:

Fine, cool to cold, with a very high UVB sunburn index. Residents should limit prolonged sun exposure despite cooler temperatures.

Mpumalanga:

Fine, cool to warm, with isolated showers and thundershowers mainly in the western Highveld.

Limpopo:

Fine and cool, warming in the Lowveld and Limpopo Valley, with isolated showers in the south-west.

North West:

Fine and cool to warm, with isolated showers and thundershowers.

Free State:

Fine and cool to cold, becoming partly cloudy and windy in the extreme east, with isolated afternoon showers.

Northern Cape:

Partly cloudy, windy, and cool to cold in the south, but warm and dry in the north.

Western Cape:

Cloudy with scattered showers in the south-west, otherwise partly cloudy and cold.

Eastern Cape:

Cool to cold with isolated showers in the west, partly cloudy and warm in the east.

KwaZulu-Natal:

Fine and cool to warm, partly cloudy in the south, with a very high UVB index.

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Fire Danger and Other Hazards

Currently, no active wildfire warnings have been issued for South Africa. However, residents, especially in dry areas, should remain vigilant as weather conditions can change rapidly. The cold front and wet weather will temporarily reduce fire risks in affected regions.

Safety Recommendations

  • Coastal and Marine Safety: Avoid small vessels and unnecessary sea travel along the Cape coast due to rough seas.
  • Driving Caution: Fog and rain may reduce visibility and road traction, particularly in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape.
  • Storm Preparedness: Residents in provinces under thunderstorm warnings should secure loose objects, avoid outdoor activities during lightning, and prepare for possible power outages.
  • Sun Protection: Despite cooler weather in some regions, the UVB sunburn index remains very high, especially in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

ALSO READ: New HIV Prevention Drug Rolled Out in South Africa – A Game Changer for Public Health

Have A Lovely Day

South Africa is experiencing a dynamic weather pattern marked by a cold front, rough seas, rain, and thunderstorms. These conditions will affect daily life and travel in many provinces. Staying informed through official channels like the South African Weather Service and taking appropriate precautions will help minimise risks during this period.

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