The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Thunderstorm Alert for multiple provinces today, warning residents of Level 5 severe weather conditions. Strong winds, heavy rain, and hail are expected to disrupt evening travel, prompting authorities to advise immediate precautions.
The alert affects several provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo. Meteorologists report that a fast-moving storm system is sweeping across the country and could intensify this evening. Commuters, outdoor workers, and residents are urged to stay indoors and follow official guidance to minimize risks.
Multiple provinces in South Africa are under a Level 5 Thunderstorm Alert, indicating extreme weather conditions that may pose risks to life, property, and travel. The SAWS has identified the following hazards:
The storm system is currently moving from the northeast and is expected to impact major urban centers including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Port Elizabeth. Evening travel is particularly risky due to heavy rain, hail, and reduced visibility on roads.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued the following warning:
“Residents in affected provinces should remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Severe Thunderstorm conditions with hail, strong winds, and heavy rain are expected to intensify this evening.”
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that emergency teams are on standby to assist with flooding, hail damage, and traffic incidents.
The Department of Transport added:
“Evening commutes in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape may face significant delays. Travelers are advised to follow traffic updates and avoid high-risk routes.”
The Thunderstorm Alert carries multiple hazards for South African residents:
Authorities recommend preparing emergency kits, keeping essential items on hand, and monitoring official updates from SAWS and local municipal authorities.
Social media in South Africa is already reporting localized flooding and hail in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Residents are sharing updates, videos, and photos to alert neighbors about road conditions and storm impacts.
Safety experts recommend the following during a Thunderstorm Alert:
Schools, offices, and public institutions in affected provinces may announce early closures or remote arrangements to minimize risks.
Meteorologists predict the storm may continue for several hours into the evening, with lingering rainfall and hail in some areas. Residents should:
Authorities will issue updated advisories as conditions evolve, potentially extending or downgrading alerts based on the storm’s severity. Emergency teams remain fully operational across all affected provinces.
The Thunderstorm Alert across multiple provinces in South Africa is a critical warning for residents, travelers, and commuters. Heavy rain, hail, and strong winds pose serious risks to public safety, property, and transportation, especially during evening hours.
By following official guidance, avoiding unnecessary travel, and taking precautionary measures, residents can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents or property damage. Stay tuned to updates from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and local authorities to remain informed and safe as the storm moves across the country.
