South Africa Faces Heavy Rain and Flood Threat

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a rainfall warning for six provinces, including Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, the eastern Free State, eastern North West, and parts of Limpopo. The warning is in effect from Wednesday (18 December) until Tuesday (24 December), with forecasts indicating increased rainfall and a heightened risk of flooding. SAWS urged the public to stay updated through short-term weather forecasts and official warnings.

The expected rainfall will relieve recent extreme heatwaves that affected much of South Africa’s interior. December’s intense heatwave lasted two weeks and set new temperature records in several provinces. The cooler, rainier conditions will provide a much-needed break from the scorching temperatures experienced in recent months.

SAWS also forecast isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers over central and eastern regions, with widespread rain likely in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. Thunderstorms may cause heavy downpours, localized flooding, damaging winds, and hail in affected areas, including Gauteng and the Free State.

Looking ahead, scattered showers and thundershowers are expected to persist, especially over the northeastern parts of the country, including Gauteng and Mpumalanga. Light rain is also possible along the southern coast. SAWS assured the public that weather conditions will be closely monitored, and updates will be issued as needed.

References

• South Africa Braces for Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk