The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued Orange Level 5 and Yellow Level 2 warnings for severe thunderstorms expected to affect several regions between Friday and Sunday. The weather system is likely to bring heavy downpours that could result in flooded roads, low-lying areas and bridges, as well as damage to homes and structures particularly in the western Free State and parts of the North West.
SAWS says the storms are expected to begin from midday on Friday and continue into the evening. Forecaster Thabo Makgoro says the system will shift toward the north-eastern parts of the country on Saturday.
“On Saturday, they will reach the northeastern parts of the country at about 12 o’clock in the afternoon, and they are expected to persist there until about 8 o’clock in the evening,” Makgoro said.
No weather warnings have been issued for Sunday.
Makgoro added that those travelling this weekend will find more favourable conditions in the western and southern regions. “The best place to travel would be the western and southern parts of the country. The western parts of the Northern Cape, as well as the Eastern Cape, will have fine, hot weather perfect for those heading to the beach,” he said.