Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Gauteng and Northern Provinces by SAWS

SAWS Alerts Public to Impending Severe Weather

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Gauteng and several other northern provinces, urging residents to prepare for a week of potentially dangerous weather conditions. The alert, active for the current week, highlights the risk of heavy rainfall, strong winds, intense thunder and lightning, and localized flooding across the affected regions.

Provinces on High Alert for Adverse Conditions

The warning extends beyond Gauteng to include parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, Free State, Eastern Cape, and the Northern Cape. Meteorologists predict that intense thunderstorms will move through these areas, bringing with them short but heavy downpours that could lead to flash flooding, particularly in low-lying urban zones and along busy transport routes. Within Gauteng, the western parts of the province are expected to experience a higher chance of rain, with a 60% probability, compared to the eastern parts at 30%. The storms may also be accompanied by hail and damaging winds, increasing the risk of property damage.

Safety Measures and Preparedness Advised

Officials are strongly advising the public to take the warning seriously and implement necessary precautions. Key recommendations from authorities include:

• Securing loose outdoor items to prevent them from being carried away or causing damage.
• Avoiding unnecessary travel during peak storm periods.
• Staying indoors during lightning storms and keeping clear of trees, poles, and other tall structures.
• Exercising extreme caution on roads due to potentially hazardous conditions, and avoiding flooded roads and bridges.

Emergency services across the affected provinces are reportedly on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents arising from the severe weather. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about changing weather patterns by monitoring official SAWS updates.