27 Jun 2023 | 01:01 PM UTC
South Africa, Lesotho: Adverse weather forecast across southern and western regions of South Africa and Lesotho through at least June 30
Severe weather forecast across parts of South Africa and Lesotho through at least June 30. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across southern and western regions of South Africa and much of Lesotho through at least June 30. Thunderstorms are forecast across western regions of South Africa on June 27, and strong winds and rough seas are likely across much of the south coast June 27-28. Eastern coastal areas of Eastern Cape Province and western coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal Province are expected to receive heavy rainfall June 27-28, with snowfall possible in elevated areas of northeastern Eastern Cape and Lesotho in the coming days.
As of June 27, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued the following weather warnings:
Orange level 6 of 10 disruptive rain warnings: Parts of western KwaZulu-Natal Province.
Yellow level 4 high wave warnings: Across much of the southern coast.
Yellow level 2 disruptive rain and thunderstorm warnings: Parts of eastern Eastern Cape and western KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
Yellow level 2 thunderstorm warnings: Parts of western Northern Cape and north-central, northwestern, and western Western Cape provinces.
Yellow level 2 damaging winds warnings: Across much of the southern coast.
The Lesotho Meteorological Services has issued a press release warning of a chance of snowfall in elevated parts of the country through June 30. Thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and strong winds are also possible in parts of the country during this period.
Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
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.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Heavy snowfall 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.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected area. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments 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.
