The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow-level 2 weather warning for Friday, 8 November 2024, forecasting severe thunderstorms across parts of Gauteng and Mpumalanga. The alert comes after weeks of heavy rains and strong winds that have already caused significant disruptions in various regions, including flash floods and emergency declarations in several municipalities.
According to SAWS, the southern and western parts of Gauteng and Mpumalanga will experience intense thunderstorms from the afternoon, with heavy rainfall that could lead to localised flooding in these areas. The storms are expected to intensify as they move over the northern parts of Gauteng and the western regions of Mpumalanga into the evening.
“Thunderstorms will likely develop from late in the day over the southern parts of both Gauteng and Mpumalanga,” the weather service said in its warning issued on 7 November. “Residents should be prepared for heavy rains and strong winds, which could cause flooding and other weather-related hazards.”
While the storms are not expected to be widespread, the SAWS has cautioned residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. Localised flooding could disrupt travel, damage infrastructure, and pose risks to people in vulnerable areas.
In addition to the heavy rainfall, the thunderstorms could bring strong winds, which could cause damage to trees, powerlines, and buildings. SAWS has urged the public to stay alert and follow local authorities’ advice, especially in areas that could be hit hardest by the storms.
This weather warning follows a series of intense weather events in recent weeks that have already caused considerable damage across South Africa. Flash floods have been a particular concern, with some metropolitan areas, including the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, declaring states of disaster due to severe weather conditions.
The unpredictable weather has caused significant disruptions to daily life, with emergency services being stretched to their limits as they respond to weather-related incidents, including flooding and wind damage.
The SA Weather Service is advising residents in Gauteng and Mpumalanga to stay informed about the changing weather conditions throughout the day and to avoid unnecessary travel during the storms. In case of flooding, it is important to stay away from rivers and low-lying areas, especially in the evening when the storms are expected to move over the northern and western parts of the provinces.
Residents are also urged to secure loose objects outside and ensure that drainage systems are clear to prevent waterlogging and localised flooding.
As the storm moves across Gauteng and Mpumalanga, the SA Weather Service will continue to monitor conditions and issue updates as necessary. Given the current weather patterns, there is a possibility that more warnings may be issued in the coming days, so residents are encouraged to stay prepared and heed any further advisories from local authorities.
With the possibility of more severe weather in the coming weeks, it is essential that communities stay vigilant and take proactive steps to mitigate the risks posed by heavy rains, flash floods, and strong winds.
