The South African Weather Service has issued a yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rain that could cause localised flooding across the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, while extreme heatwave conditions threaten the Western Cape, Northern Cape and parts of the Eastern Cape.
Heatwave Conditions
According to the South African Weather Service, the heatwave is expected to bring extremely high temperatures, with some areas reaching temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius. This has raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable communities, particularly the elderly and young children.
The warning comes as the country is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to rise even further over the next few days. The Western Cape, Northern Cape and parts of the Eastern Cape are expected to be the worst affected, with temperatures expected to reach as high as 45 degrees Celsius in some areas.
Flooding in Mpumalanga and Limpopo
In contrast, the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo can expect disruptive rain, which could cause localised flooding. The South African Weather Service has warned that the rain could lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Residents in these areas are advised to be on high alert and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Some of the precautions that residents can take include:
- Staying indoors during heavy rainfall
- Avoiding travel to areas that are prone to flooding
- Keeping a battery-powered radio and flashlight on hand in case of a power outage
The South African Weather Service has also warned that the heatwave and flooding could have a significant impact on the country’s food security, particularly in areas where crops are already under stress due to drought. Farmers are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their crops and livestock.
For more information on the weather warning, residents can visit the National Disaster Management Centre website.
