Wednesday looks wet and unsettled across much of South Africa, with showers and thundershowers spreading over Gauteng, the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, Mpumalanga, North West and the Northern Cape, while the Eastern Cape can expect rain showers and Limpopo stays the driest with just partly cloudy skies. Temperatures range from a cool 11C in Johannesburg to a warmer 28C in Mahikeng, so it will be mild to pleasant where the sun does break through. Keep an eye on the several Severe Thunderstorm warnings in place, mostly at moderate level with one minor, and note that one of these warnings still affects parts of the country for the rest of today.
Orange level 5Severe ThunderstormsPrince Albert, Calvinia, Beaufort West + 2 more · from 00:00 on Wednesday 23 September, valid until 23:59 on 23 September▼
Areas: Prince Albert, Calvinia, Beaufort West, Sutherland, Laingsburg.
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Expected impacts
Large amounts of small hail can cause damage to infrastructure, vehicles and difficult driving conditions. These conditions can lead to major travel disruptions. Loss of livestock and agricultural productions are also likely together with disruption to essential services.
What to do ▼
If possible, stay indoors away from metal objects. Do not seek shelter under trees or tall objects. Do not go fishing or play golf, as both the golf clubs and fishing rods are a good conductor of electricity. Be aware that any combination of hail, strong winds and/or heavy downpours can accompany the storms. Stay indoors during lightning. Avoid using plumbing and touching electrical equipment connected to outlets during the storm.
Yellow level 2Severe ThunderstormsMogoto, Sabie, Standerton + 15 more · valid until 23:59 on 22 September▼
Localised service disruption due to power surges/disruptions
Localised damage to vehicles and structures
Hazardous driving conditions.
What to do: Seek safe shelter from hail.
Drive carefully.
Stay away from flooded areas.
Yellow level 2Severe ThunderstormsGrabouw, Worcester, Knysna + 16 more · valid until 23:59 on 23 September▼
Areas: Grabouw, Worcester, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Paarl, George, Swellendam, Riversdale, Ceres, Hermanus, Robertson, Cape Agulhas, Ladismith, Mosselbay, Oudtshoorn, Stellenbosch, Malmesbury, Cape Town city, Langebaan.
Localised service disruption due to power surges/disruptions
Localised injuries (human and livestock)
Localised damage to property
Localised fire incidents (dwelling/veld fire).
What to do: If possible stay indoors away from metal objects. Do not seek shelter under trees or tall objects. Do not go fishing or play golf as both the golf clubs and fishing rods are good conductors of electricity. Members of the public are therefore advised to go indoors as soon as thunder roars.
Yellow level 2Severe ThunderstormsEscourt, Ekuvukeni, Ladysmith + 15 more · valid until 20:59 on 22 September▼
Areas: Escourt, Ekuvukeni, Ladysmith, Dannhauser, Underberg, Utrecht, Dundee, Kokstad, Impendle, Donnybrook, Goodhom, Giants Castle, Mooi River, Pomeroy, Newcastle, Royal National Park, Howick, Umzimkhulu.
Localised damage to infrastructure and settlements.
Localised flooding of susceptible roads and bridges.
Minor motor vehicle accidents due to slippery roads and poor visibility.
Difficult driving conditions on dirt and slippery roads.
Large amounts of small hail/ large hail over an open area.
What to do: Take caution or avoid traveling on bridges and roads in low lying areas as these may be susceptible to flooding and there may be sinkholes. Avoid outdoor activities as lightning, hail and flooding may result in injuries and death. If possible, stay indoors well clear of windows, shelter pets, and cover vehicles. Move livestock and cars to safe sheltered areas as there may be flying debris.
🎬 7-Day Weather Forecast Video
Looking to Tomorrow
Wet weather sweeps across South Africa tomorrow, with showers and thundershowers expected in Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Free State, while the Eastern Cape sees rain showers. Temperatures range from a cool 11°C in Gauteng to a warm 26°C in both KwaZulu-Natal and Free State, so dress accordingly.
Forecast data: South African Weather Service (weathersa.co.za) and various 3rd party providers and AI Tools.
