Central SA
Severe weather conditions expected in Central South Africa─── ZENANDE MPAME 09:22 Sun, 02 Jun 2024
“The weather service says this could lead to local flooding of roads.”
A yellow level 1 warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms with possible heavy downpours, large amounts of small hail, damaging winds, and lightning in Central South Africa for Sunday (2/6).
The South African Weather Service sent an advisory indicating that storms will be accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain, and hail, which may lead to local flooding.
It warns there might be difficult driving conditions, leading to multiple vehicle accidents, and localised flooding of susceptible roads and low-lying areas.
Severe thunderstorms are expected in Central South Africa. Image: SA Weather
“There is a yellow level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms in parts of the North West, Free State, and eastern parts of the Northern Cape,” said SAWS forecaster Kholofelo Dube.
"A cut-off low-pressure system will result in conditions favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms, leading to strong damaging winds with heavy downpours and hail on Sunday afternoon.”
“There will be possible snowfall in the Lesotho Mountains on Sunday,” said Dube.
Snow is expected in these areas. Image: Storm Report SA
The weather service sent tips to people on what to avoid when the weather is like this:
• If possible, stay indoors (away from metal objects such as golf clubs and fishing rods).
• Do not seek shelter under trees or tall objects.
• Do not go fishing or play golf as both the golf clubs and fishing rods are good conductors of electricity.
• Be aware that any combination of hail, strong winds, and/or heavy downpours can accompany the storms.
Substantial damage was reported in the Eastern Cape last night, as some areas recorded over 150mm of rain. Credit: Storm Report SA
The Mangaung Metro Municipality urges all residents and road users to pay attention to alerts and warnings to reduce speed in wet conditions and ensure their headlights are switched on.
In case of any emergency during extreme weather conditions, residents are urged to contact the Mangaung Fire Department on 051 406 6666 or 051 409 9600. They can also contact the ambulance on 10177. The contingency number if the above numbers fail, is 068 483 8294.
