South Africa, Lesotho: Adverse winter weather forecast across the region through at least Sept. 21 /update 1

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of southeastern South Africa and Lesotho through at least Sept. 21. Heavy snowfall is forecast across much of the affected area. Transport disruptions are likely in the region due to the adverse weather, especially in mountainous areas due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

The South African Weather Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area through Sept. 21:

• Orange Level 6 (out of 10) disruptive snow warnings: Dihlabeng, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Inkosi Langalibalele, Maluti a Phofung, Okhahlamba, and Umzimkhulu local municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal Province as well as Elundini, Matatiele, Sakhisizwe, and Senqu local municipalities in Eastern Cape Province.

• Yellow Level 2 disruptive rain warnings: Eastern KwaZulu-Natal Province.

• Yellow Level 2 disruptive snow warnings: The rest of the affected area.

The Lesotho Meteorological Services has warned of snowfall early Sept. 20-21. Cold to very cold conditions are forecast through Sept. 21; temperatures are likely to improve Sept. 22. Officials have advised residents to take precautions while traveling. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages may occur throughout the affected area.

The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are especially likely on secondary and rural roads as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds will threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected areas. As a precaution, mountain passes and tunnels will likely be closed during periods of intense snowfall. The disruptive weather will probably cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions.