South Africa has faced recurring severe weather in 2025—from devastating floods earlier in the year to renewed warnings of heavy rainfall and storms this September. In June, torrential rain, snow, and strong winds brought catastrophic flooding, particularly in the Eastern Cape. Now, in September, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued new alerts across several provinces, underscoring the ongoing climate risks.
June Floods Overwhelm Eastern Cape
In mid-June, a powerful cold front swept across the country, triggering torrential rains and snowfall that caused rapid flooding—especially around Mthatha. Rivers burst their banks, sweeping away homes, vehicles, and even school buses. By early July, the confirmed death toll had risen to 103, including numerous children, and over 4,700 people were left homeless (Wikipedia, AP News). The estimated cost of rebuilding and repairs reached around US$288 million.
September Brings New Storm Threats
In early September, SAWS issued a series of weather warnings across multiple provinces. On 7 September, a Yellow Level 2 warning was declared for Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal, warning of heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and localised flooding (EWN). On 8 September, BusinessTech reported both Yellow Level 2 and Level 4 warnings—Level 4 affecting north-western KwaZulu-Natal—highlighting severe thunderstorms with hail, lightning, strong winds, and risks to infrastructure and informal settlements (BusinessTech). By 10 September, forecasts included scattered thundershowers, extreme fire danger, and strong winds across central and eastern regions (Citizen).
Climate Change and the Intensifying Storms
Scientific consensus indicates that South Africa’s warming climate—especially of the Indian Ocean and atmosphere—contributes to stronger storms and heavier rainfall events. While the June floods were driven largely by a winter cold front, long-term trends show increased frequency and severity of extreme weather, including floods, droughts, heatwaves, hailstorms, and wind events (Wits University).
Communities and Authorities Respond
In June, disaster response units, local authorities, and communities mobilised urgently to rescue stranded individuals, recover victims, and support displaced families. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit followed a national disaster declaration, enabling emergency funding to rebuild infrastructure and support affected populations (AP News, Wikipedia). In September, authorities and media emphasised the importance of heeding SAWS alerts, avoiding flooded roads, and preparing for possible hail, wind damage, or swift water hazards (BusinessTech, Citizen).
Looking Ahead: Adaptation Is Essential
These events underscore South Africa’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather. Experts urge investments in resilient infrastructure, robust early warning systems, upgraded drainage networks, and climate-adapted housing—especially in informal settlements. Strengthening insurance and risk-management strategies is also critical to protecting lives and livelihoods.
Stay informed: residents should closely monitor SAWS updates and local news to respond quickly when new alerts are issued. Preparedness—having emergency kits, securing property, and knowing how to respond—can save lives.
Keywords: South Africa 2025 weather, Eastern Cape floods June 2025, SAWS warnings September, climate adaptation, disaster resilience