Johannesburg, South Africa – The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather warning for Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, urging residents to prepare for potentially dangerous thunderstorms. The warning highlights a high probability of heavy rainfall, localised flooding, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning.
What to Expect: Gauteng, Limpopo & Mpumalanga Under Threat
According to SAWS forecaster Lehlogonolo Thobela, current climate trends suggest a possible increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in these eastern regions. This includes more frequent severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
Sunday night saw significant weather impacts following the upgrade of a severe thunderstorm warning from level 2 to level 4. Large hailstones, heavy downpours, and strong winds caused widespread damage, particularly in the East Rand (Brakpan, Benoni, Springs, Kempton Park, Thembisa, and Boksburg) and Pretoria North (Daspoort, Wonderboom, and Sinoville).
Impact of Recent Storms
- Rapid flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
- Damaging winds causing localised structural damage and fallen trees.
- Hail damage to vehicles, roofs, and other property.
- Traffic disruptions due to fallen trees, pooled water, and reduced visibility.
Thobela explained that these impacts are consistent with severe thunderstorms driven by strong convective updrafts and organised storm cells. The weather developed in an environment marked by high moisture, strong surface heating, adequate wind shear, and a surface trough that enhanced instability.
Ekurhuleni on High Alert
Following the latest SAWS weather warning, Ekurhuleni's disaster and emergency management services (DEMS) have announced they are remaining on high alert. Scattered showers and thundershowers are anticipated over Gauteng, potentially leading to life-threatening and disaster incidents. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions and stay informed about weather updates.