As South Africa experiences another bout of extreme winter weather, a new cut-off low system is set to bring plunging temperatures and the potential for snowfall across the southern half of the country from Wednesday, 19 July 2023.
South Africa snowfall forecast starting Wednesday, 19 July 2023
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a weather warning, predicting a significant drop in temperatures and snowfall in various regions, starting as early as Wednesday, 19 July 2023.
Snowfall and Chilly Conditions
According to meteorological experts, a cut-off low is anticipated to develop over the southern interior of South Africa, resulting in a rapid decrease in maximum temperatures, particularly in the Cape provinces.
The inclement weather is expected to bring widespread cold, showery conditions and snowfall over the higher mountains of the Cape provinces on Wednesday.
The snowfall is projected to extend to the Drakensberg Mountain peaks in Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal by Thursday.
Impact on Other Regions
As the cut-off low intensifies throughout the week, it will bring cold weather and rainy conditions to parts of the Northern Cape, North-West, Gauteng, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga.
Friday is expected to see heavier rainfall in the western and central parts of these provinces, potentially leading to localised flooding and minor disruptions in road traffic.
Thunderstorms, some of which may be severe, are also a possibility, along with small hail and strong, gusty surface winds. Motorists are advised to exercise caution, reduce speed, and maintain safe following distances on icy roads.
Longer-Term Outlook
By Saturday, 22 July 2023, the majority of the rainfall is expected to shift towards the eastern and north-eastern provinces, with the inclement weather gradually clearing by Sunday.
However, the public, especially small stock farmers, are advised to remain vigilant due to the risks posed by the cold, wet, and windy conditions to livestock, vulnerable crops, and plants.
It is essential for individuals to prioritize staying warm during these harsh weather conditions.
Specific Affected Areas
A Yellow level 2 warning has been issued for the Eastern Cape mountains, specifically the Dr Beyers Naude Local Municipality, Graaff Reinet, and the Chris Hani District Municipality.
The Barkly East area’s mountain pass will also experience significant impacts. Additional areas affected by the snowfall include the Raymond Mhlaba, Elundini, and Matatiele Local Municipalities.
Coastal Concerns
Along the southwestern and southern coast of the Western Cape, strong waves and winds are expected. The SAWS has issued a Yellow level 2 warning for these areas, cautioning against navigation difficulties at sea for small vessels and personal watercraft from Tuesday, 18 July, to Wednesday, 19 July 2023, between Cape Columbine and Plettenberg Bay.