South Africa: Adverse weather forecast over southern and eastern regions through at least Nov. 6

Severe weather is forecast to continue across parts of southern and eastern South Africa through at least Nov. 6. Heavry rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and rough seas in coastal areas are forecast over the coming days, with the worst of the severe weather likely in coastal areas of Eastern Cape province Nov. 5. Snowfall is also possible in mountainous parts of south-central South Africa. Adverse weather associated with a cut-off low weather system has been affecting parts of the region in recent days. Authorities in KwaZulu-Natal Province reported one person was killed and three others seriously injured after being struck by lightning in Mooi-Mpofana Local Municipality following severe storms in the area Nov. 4.

As of Nov. 5, the South African Weather Service has issued the following severe weather warnings:

• Orange Level 5 (out of 10) disruptive rain warnings: Eastern coastal areas of Eastern Cape Province.

• Yellow level 4 disruptive rain warnings: Central coastal areas and eastern inland areas of Eastern Cape Province and parts of western KawZulu-Natal province.

• Yellow Level 2 severe thunderstorm warnings: Across central and western Mpumalanga Province and parts of southeastern Gauteng, far northern KwaZulu-Natal, and far southern Limpopo provinces.

• Yellow Level 2 damaging winds warnings: Coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal province.

Further yellow level 4 severe thunderstorm warnings are in place across Gauteng and parts of western Limpopo, western Mpumalanga, and eastern North West provinces Nov. 6. Officials will likely amend forecasts and advisories over the coming hours and days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further 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 rain has saturated the soil. Strong winds could create conditions conducive to wildfire development and growth.

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. Utility services could also be suspended or disrupted in areas with strong winds, particularly in elevated or mountainous locations.

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. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the east coast. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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.