Severe thunderstorms and cold weather expected over large parts of the country

AfriForum is warning communities in large parts of the country, specifically the Northwest and the Free State, that the severe thunderstorms currently raging are expected to continue until Friday. These storms are accompanied by heavy rainfall of more than 50 mm, which can lead to localised flooding of roads, rivers and low-lying areas. The South African Weather Service has issued an orange level 5 warning for Klerksdorp, Ventersdorp, Lichtenburg and Rustenburg in particular for the severe thunderstorms.

“It is always better to be prepared for severe weather conditions to prevent damage and loss of life. AfriForum is calling on motorists and residents to be extremely vigilant and avoid dangerous routes, especially when roads and bridges have been washed away. It is also important to keep the emergency services’ telephone numbers close,” says Tarien Cooks, AfriForum’s Disaster Management Specialist.

Scattered showers are also expected over the central part of South Africa, while snowfall is possible over the Drakensberg in Lesotho, as well as in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. These areas will experience a drastic drop in daytime temperatures over the next few days, posing challenges for the elderly, young children and animals.

AfriForum calls on communities to prepare for the adverse weather conditions. See tips down here.