Cold Front: These areas in South Africa are expected to be worst hit
Cold Front: These areas in South Africa are expected to be worst hit. Photo credit: NickyLloyd/Getty Images
As a powerful cold front begins sweeping across South Africa, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that several regions will face the brunt of the severe weather. These include widespread rainfall, gale-force winds, plummeting temperatures, snow in high-altitude areas, and potential flooding.
Below is a breakdown of the worst-hit areas and what residents in those locations should prepare for.
Western Cape: Heavy Rain, Flooding, and Coastal Storms
The Western Cape, particularly the Cape Winelands, Overberg, Cape Town Metro, and Helderberg areas, are forecast to receive 20–50mm of rainfall, with mountainous regions expecting even higher amounts.
The risk of localised flooding, mudslides, and traffic disruptions is high due to the volume of rain and already saturated ground. The City of Cape Town has activated disaster readiness teams.
Eastern Cape: Damaging Winds and Dangerous Seas
Eastern Cape coastal towns including Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), East London, and surrounding communities will experience gale- to storm-force winds and waves exceeding 7 metres.
Fishermen, coastal residents, and small boat operators have been warned to stay off the water. Inland towns like Queenstown and Barkly East may also see strong winds and cold rain.
Northern and Eastern Free State: Snow and Freezing Conditions
The northern and eastern parts of the Free State, including areas like Bethlehem, Ficksburg, and Clarens, are expected to experience light snowfall, sub-zero temperatures, and icy road conditions.
This poses a high risk for travel disruptions, stranded motorists, and livestock exposure in rural areas.
KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and Underberg: Snow and Wind
The KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, including Underberg, Mooi River, and Nottingham Road, are likely to receive snowfall and icy winds.
This could impact farming operations and road safety on R617 and R74 routes. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel through mountain passes.
Highveld and Drakensberg Region: Cold, Frost and Possible Snow
Parts of the Highveld, including southern Gauteng, Mpumalanga highlands, and the Drakensberg mountain range, will be affected by very cold air, frost, and potential light snow showers, particularly in Sabie, Dullstroom, and Machadodorp.
While snowfall will be less intense here, the temperature drop will be significant, with nighttime lows nearing 0°C.
Worst-Hit Areas
| Province | Locations | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Western Cape | Cape Winelands, Overberg, Cape Town | Heavy rain, flooding, winds, coastal surges |
| Eastern Cape | Gqeberha, East London, inland towns | Gale-force winds, dangerous seas, rain |
| Free State | Clarens, Ficksburg, Bethlehem | Snow, icy roads, freezing temperatures |
| KwaZulu-Natal | Underberg, Mooi River, Midlands | Snowfall, cold winds, travel risk |
| Mpumalanga/Gauteng | Dullstroom, Sabie, Highveld fringe | Frost, freezing temps, light snow in high-altitude zones |
Residents in these high-risk areas are advised to monitor official weather updates, limit outdoor activities, prepare for possible power disruptions, and support vulnerable community members.
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