06 Jul 2023 | 12:03 PM UTC
South Africa, Lesotho: Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of South Africa and Lesotho through at least July 11
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of South Africa and Lesotho through at least July 11. Disruptions possible.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of South Africa and much of Lesotho through at least July 11. A cold front is forecast to move west to east over central and southern parts of South Africa over the coming days, bringing the chance of snowfall to elevated areas and in some areas potentially also at lower elevations. The front will also bring strong winds across affected areas and some showers and thunderstorms at lower elevations. The combination of snowfall and strong winds will likely lead to hazardous driving conditions due to blowing snow. Authorities may close mountain passes due to possible snow accumulations and icy roads. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.
As of July 6, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued the following weather warnings:
Orange level 5 of 10 damaging winds warnings: Parts of northern and northwestern Eastern Cape July 7-8.
Yellow level 4 disruptive snow warnings: Parts of northern and northeastern Eastern Cape July 9-10.
Yellow level 4 damaging winds warnings: Parts of central, northeastern, and western Eastern Cape July 7-8.
Yellow level 2 damaging winds warnings: Parts of central, southern, and southeastern Northern Cape Province July 7-8.
Yellow level 2 damaging waves warnings: Across much of the southwestern and western coast July 7-9 and the southern coast July 8-9.
Yellow level 1 damaging winds warnings: Parts of southwestern Free State Province July 7-8.
The Lesotho Meteorological Services has warned that there is a chance of snow especially at higher elevations across Lesotho July 9-10. Very cold temperatures are also expected during this period.
Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in affected areas over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles. 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. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected areas as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in affected areas. Sporadic power outages are also possible.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
