As South Africa gears up for the first workweek of the year, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued alerts for heavy rains and disruptive weather conditions expected from Sunday, 5 January, through Wednesday, 8 January 2025.
Weather warnings for the first workweek of 2025
These weather patterns are predicted to coincide with the return to work and school, potentially complicating daily commutes and public safety.
The rainfall will not follow the typical summer pattern of brief afternoon thundershowers.
Instead, the country is expected to experience persistent showers throughout the day and night, driven by a continuous influx of warm, moist air from tropical regions to the north.
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This unusual pattern raises concerns about the potential for flooding, particularly in areas already saturated from heavy December rains.
Motorists and pedestrians have been advised to remain vigilant during this period.
Flash flooding, slippery roads, and poor visibility are all significant risks, especially in low-lying areas prone to water accumulation.
SAWS has urged the public to monitor weather updates regularly and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Areas that will be affected
The central and eastern parts of South Africa are expected to bear the brunt of the adverse weather conditions.
Key provinces at risk include:
- North West
- Free State
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Mpumalanga
- Gauteng
- Southern parts of Limpopo’s western Bushveld
In these regions, rainfall accumulations could reach between 50 and 70 mm over a short period, raising the likelihood of localised flooding.
Urban areas, where drainage systems may struggle to cope with heavy downpours, are particularly vulnerable.
In Gauteng and Mpumalanga, where morning and evening traffic volumes are high, the prolonged rain could disrupt commutes.
Similarly, in KwaZulu-Natal, the risk of swollen rivers and overflowing low-water bridges could pose dangers to both pedestrians and motorists.
SAWS has also highlighted the possibility of continued rainfall into midweek, particularly across the northeastern parts of the country.
As the workweek begins, the impact of these conditions could be compounded by saturated ground following heavy rainfall in December.
Emergency and rescue services are expected to be on high alert for any disruptions brought on by the prolonged torrential weather.
