Weather Warning: Dangerous Coastal Waves and Cold Front Hit Eastern Cape on Mandela Day

Mandela Day, celebrated on 18 July every year, has dawned with a stern warning for residents and visitors along the Eastern Cape coast. Today brings a double blow of hazardous coastal waves and sharp cold front conditions across large portions of the province. These extreme weather events highlight the importance of staying informed, planning ahead, and exercising caution along affected areas.

ALSO READ: Today’s Weather Forecast: 18-07-2025

Severe Coastal Wave Alert from SA Weather Service

This morning, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging coastal waves along vast stretches of the Eastern Cape, with areas from Alexander Bay to East London on high alert. This alert is in effect through Mandela Day, cautioning small vessels at sea to avoid travel, as heightened risk exists of taking on water or capsizing.

Waves are expected to reach impactful heights, disrupting navigation and presenting a real danger to local marine and fishing activities. Beachgoers and surfers should avoid the water and exercise extreme care. Coastal businesses and local authorities have been asked to monitor conditions and put contingency plans in place.

According to SAWS: “Damaging waves resulting in difficulty in navigation at sea and small vessels are at risk of taking on water and capsizing in localities such as Alexander Bay and East London.”

Cold Weather Settles Over the Interior

Eastern Cape’s interior is not spared. Behind the coastal developments, a cold front is driving down temperatures and bringing isolated to scattered showers, primarily impacting the northern and eastern regions. Many communities, especially those at higher elevations, can expect very cold conditions with daytime highs well below the seasonal average.

Residents in the northeast should prepare for bitterly cold weather. It is crucial to dress warmly and take extra care with heating methods to avoid the risk of fire or carbon monoxide exposure indoors. Along coastal strips west of Gqeberha, rain is already spreading, intensifying the chill and hampering travel and outdoor activity.

Mandela Day: How the Cold Front Will Affect You

Eastern Half of the Eastern Cape
Partly cloudy and cold, shifting to cloudy with isolated to scattered showers and rain in the east.
Very cold in the northern high ground, making travel and daily activities more challenging.

Western Half of the Eastern Cape
Morning fog in the interior, followed by partly cloudy and cool-to-cold conditions.
Isolated showers and rain along the coast west of Gqeberha, meaning wet and slippery conditions on roads.

Key Localities Impacted: East London, Gqeberha, Mthatha, Grahamstown, Jeffreys Bay, and surrounding communities, particularly those near the coast or elevated inland areas.

Coastal Hazards: What to Expect

Today’s maritime dangers cannot be overstated. Historically, when similar weather events have struck, local ports and harbours experienced disruptions, with small-to-medium vessels suffering water damage and, occasionally, capsizing. Large, wind-driven waves and gusty winds are forecast, raising the risk for anyone near the water’s edge.

Local authorities urge the public to:

• Avoid unnecessary coastal excursions or water activities today and tonight.
• Keep a safe distance from rocky shorelines and piers.
• Closely monitor weather updates and follow instructions from law enforcement or municipal safety officials.

Broader Provincial Outlook for 18 July

Neighbouring provinces are also feeling the effects of this winter weather system.

• KwaZulu-Natal: Cool to cold with scattered showers along the coast and adjacent interior, particularly in Durban and coastal towns.
• Free State: Partly cloudy to cold with isolated showers in the east.
• Western Cape: Cloudy in the southwest, with isolated showers and strong winds.

Gauteng remains largely insulated from the worst impacts, with a forecast of partly cloudy and cool conditions, and a high UVB sunburn index. Residents should still take care with sun exposure if outdoors.

Weather Safety Tips for Eastern Cape Residents

To stay safe and minimise risk during this coastal weather alert:

• Stay indoors when possible, especially during peak storm activity.
• Secure all loose items around your property.
• If you must drive, reduce speed on wet or foggy roads and turn on headlights.
• Fishermen and small boat users should delay all departures, following guidance from local authorities.
• Dress in layers to retain heat and prevent cold-related health issues.
• Monitor official channels for the latest weather warnings and news throughout the day.

The Winter Pattern Continues

July remains a month of frequent weather changes in the Eastern Cape. Average maximum temperatures for this period are typically 17°C to 20°C, with minimums dipping as low as 5°C in some inland areas. Rainfall is moderate, but sudden cold snaps and damaging wave events, like today, can occur with little warning.

Experts remind all Eastern Cape residents to remain alert for future updates and to heed weather alerts throughout the winter months.

Stay Informed

Up-to-date information is your best defence against winter’s worst. For the most reliable forecasts and alerts, check official sources like the South African Weather Service and trusted news portals regularly. Being informed will help you keep your family and community safe during these unpredictable winter weather events.