The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an important alert for the Western Cape and nearby provinces.
Between Monday, 19 May, and Wednesday, 21 May, two cold fronts will sweep through the region.
The first one, described as milder, is expected to arrive on Monday, preparing the ground for a much stronger and more intense cold front set to hit on Tuesday.
Rainfall and Flood Risks
SAWS cautions that continuous rainfall during this period could cause localised flooding, especially in low-lying areas or places with poor drainage systems.
Residents in vulnerable spots should stay alert and take necessary precautions to avoid flood-related troubles.
Strong Winds Across the Cape
The weather service also predicts powerful westerly to north-westerly winds between 55 and 65 km/h.
These winds will affect large parts of the Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape provinces, particularly inland.
The gusts are expected to make outdoor activities and travel more challenging.
Snowfall and Rough Seas Expected
Temperatures will drop sharply as freezing levels fall, especially in higher-altitude regions.
This opens up the possibility of snowfall spreading from Tuesday evening through to Friday morning, 23 May.
Coastal areas should brace for gale-force winds reaching speeds up to 75 km/h along the coast from Alexander Bay to Plettenberg Bay.
These winds will churn up very rough seas, with waves potentially reaching heights of 7 metres and a 10-second wave interval.
Such conditions are hazardous for small boats and anyone involved in coastal activities.
Possible Disruptions Ahead
The cold fronts are likely to cause disruptions in daily life, particularly for people in the Western Cape and the Namakwa District.
Strong winds may delay road travel and pose risks to high-sided vehicles on major highways.
There’s also a chance of power outages due to damage to power lines.
Stay Alert and Prepared
Farmers and the general public are urged to stay informed and prepared for the upcoming weather.
SAWS’ advisory clearly outlines the risks: heavy rain, snow, gale-force winds, and dangerous sea conditions.
Are you ready to face the cold and stormy weather that’s on its way?