Yellow Level 1 Warning Issued for Eastern Cape in South Africa Due to Strong Winds and Stormy Seas

The Eastern Cape is bracing for destructive snow, heavy rain, and adverse weather conditions as a cold front moves across parts of South Africa.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 2 yellow snow warning that could cause disruptions starting Sunday. Some areas are expected to receive between 25 and 35 centimeters of snow.

This warning applies to the local municipalities of Dr Beyers Naude, Chris Hani district, as well as the local municipalities of Senqu, Elundini, and Matatile.

SAWS reported that the adverse weather will persist until Tuesday. The meteorological service explained these conditions are due to a steep upper trough, which is expected to develop into an isolated low-pressure center, alongside a ridge of high pressure passing over the Eastern Cape.

Flooding and destructive winds

SAWS warned that heavy rain could lead to localized flooding in vulnerable formal and informal settlements, as well as on roads and low bridges. Furthermore, strong winds and high waves are expected to affect maritime shipping.

Possibility of snow in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng

Cloudy and cold or very cold conditions are expected in the central and eastern parts of the country on Monday and Tuesday. Isolated or scattered rain and thunderstorms are possible, which will become widespread in the Eastern Cape on Monday.

Snow is also possible in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, as well as in the eastern districts of Free State and the southern and eastern districts of Gauteng from late Monday evening until Tuesday morning. However, SAWS noted that the probability of snowfall in Gauteng is low.