South Africa: Adverse weather continues across southern regions as of June 4 /update 1

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across southern South Africa as of June 4. Heavy snowfall has been reported in elevated parts of the region, and strong winds are likely across much of the affected areas. Air travel disruptions have been noted at the King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London. The N6 highway is closed at Penhoek Pass between Komani and Jamestown in the Eastern Cape; the nearby Barkly Pass on the R58, and the Wapadsberg Pass on the R61 have also been affected.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange Level 6 (out of 10) disruptive snow warnings: Parts of northern Eastern Cape Province.

• Orange Level 6 (out of 10) disruptive rain warnings: Coastal Eastern Cape Province.

• Yellow Level 2-4 (out of 10) disruptive snow warnings: Inland areas of the rest of the affected area.

• Yellow Level 2-4 (out of 10) disruptive rain, severe thunderstorm, damaging winds, and damaging wave warnings: Coastal areas of the rest of the affected area.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The storm could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow), strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. 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 and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Over the coming days, precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow, and decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides are possible in areas of elevated terrain. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Floodwaters and related debris will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas will also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities will probably 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 regional airports. Authorities will probably temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding/snow will likely block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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 floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.