20 Sep 2022 | 11:33 AM UTC
South Africa: Adverse weather forecast over southern and eastern regions through at least Sept. 21 /update 1
Severe weather forecast over parts of southern and eastern South Africa through at least Sept. 21. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and snowfall over higher ground are forecast across parts of southern and eastern South Africa through at least Sept. 21. The affected area includes parts of eastern and southern Eastern Cape, much of KwaZulu-Natal, much of Mpumalanga, and eastern and northern Limpopo provinces. Heavy downpours could lead to flash and urban flooding in some areas and snowfall accumulations and cold temperatures could lead to icy roads and the possible closure of mountain passes.
As of Sept. 20, the South African Weather Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange Level 6 (of 10) Disruptive Rain Warnings: Parts of eastern Eastern Cape Province.
Orange Level 5 Severe Thunderstorm Warnings: Parts of central and southern Mpumalanga Province.
Yellow Level 2 Disruptive Snow Warnings: Parts of western KwaZulu-Natal Province.
Yellow Level 2 Severe Thunderstorm Warnings: Parts of eastern and northern Limpopo and northern, northeastern, and western Mpumulanga provinces.
Yellow 2 Disruptive Rain Warnings: Parts of eastern and southern Eastern Cape and coastal and northern KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow), and strong winds are likely. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Reconfirm the status of road routes before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
