South Africa, Lesotho: Adverse weather conditions forecast across Lesotho and parts of central and southern South Africa through at least Oct. 23

Severe weather is forecast across parts of central and southern South Africa and across Lesotho through at least Oct. 23. A cut-off low weather system is expected to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the affected area over the coming days; strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could lead to flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of Oct. 21, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued the following warnings across the affected area:

• Orange level 6 (out of ten) disruptive rain warnings: Coastal areas of Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.

• Yellow level 4 disruptive rain warnings: Parts of western and west-central Eastern Cape Province.

• Yellow level 4 severe thunderstorm warnings: Across much of the rest of the affected area.

• Yellow level 2 disruptive rain warnings: Parts of central Eastern Cape Province.

Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

The Lesotho Meteorological Service has forecast moderate-to-heavy rainfall with thunderstorms, strong winds, and a chance of hail across much of Lesotho Oct. 21-22, before conditions improve Oct. 23. There is also a chance of snowfall in higher elevations.

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 or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks. 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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

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.