Hail and Severe Thunderstorms Forecasted in South Africa
Severe Weather Alert: Regions at Risk
The South African Weather Services (SAWS) has issued a level 2 weather warning for several regions across the country.
The affected areas include:
- Tsantsabane / Postmasburg
- Dawid Kruiper – Twee Rivieren / Twee Rivieren
- Dawid Kruiper – Upington / Upington
- Kai !Garib / Augrabies Falls
- Siyancuma / Griquastad
- Kareeberg / VanWyksvlei
- Emthanjeni / De Aar
- Ubuntu / Victoria West
- Umsobomvu / Noupoort
- Inxuba Yethemba / Cradock
- Enoch Magijima – Tarkastad / Tarkastad
- Dr Beyers Naude – Jansenville / Jansenville
- Amahlathi / Stutterheim
- Makana / Makhanda/Grahamstown
- Emalahleni / Lady Frere
- Buffalo City / East London
- Ngqushwa / Peddie
- Ndlambe / Port Alfred
- Great Kei / Komga
The weather warning is in effect until late on Friday evening.
Potential Impacts and Safety Tips
The warning carries several potential impacts, including local damage to settlements in open areas, fallen trees blocking minor roads, localized flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas, and bridges.
It also highlights the possibility of minor vehicle accidents and the expectation of significant small hail in open areas.
The SAWS advises against seeking shelter under trees or tall objects during storms and recommends parking cars under shelter whenever possible.
Safety Measures for Hail Storms
In preparation for hail storms, it’s crucial to take precautions to minimize potential damage:
Reduce speed and find shelter:
Driving slowly can reduce the risk of hail damage and minimize the danger of slippery surfaces.
Seek shelter in a garage or under an overhead bridge if available, but avoid parking under trees to prevent damage from falling branches.
Remain in your car:
Hailstones are hard and heavy, potentially causing harm or injury.
Staying inside your vehicle is safer during a hailstorm.
Protect your car:
Keep blankets in your car large enough to cover all exposed areas susceptible to hail damage.
Face the hailstorm:
When parking during a hailstorm, face the storm.
The windscreen and headlights can withstand more substantial impacts compared to side windows and tail lights.
The weather warning and safety tips provided by the South African Weather Services are essential for residents in the affected regions.
By taking appropriate precautions, individuals can reduce the risks associated with severe hail and thunderstorms, ultimately ensuring their safety and minimizing potential damage to property and vehicles.
This kind of information is crucial for public safety and preparedness.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn