South Africa Faces Snowfall and Flooding Risks Ahead

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings regarding potential snowfall and flooding risks across South Africa. This weather system is driven by a cut-off low that is expected to move eastward and begin clearing by Thursday, although cold and partly cloudy conditions with isolated showers will continue into Friday.

The SAWS cautions that disruptive rain could lead to flooding of roads, bridges, and settlements along the coastline and adjacent interior areas between East London and Cape Vidal. Additionally, disruptive snowfall is anticipated over the north-eastern high ground of the Eastern Cape and the Drakensberg region of KwaZulu-Natal.

This may result in traffic delays, temporary isolation of communities, and interruptions to essential services. Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to safeguard livestock and infrastructure.

Snowfall in South Africa is uncommon but has occurred in recent years during strong winter systems, affecting high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, Barkly East, Molteno, and parts of the Sneeuberg.