Intense cold front expected until Friday

THE intense cold front set to hit south-western parts of South Africa from Tuesday will likely disrupt fishing and port operations, increase the risk of vessel capsizing and accidents at sea, and create hazardous shoreline conditions.

This is according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), which warned Western Cape residents of the Western Cape and Northern Cape to brace  for a severe cold front, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential snowfall expected from Wednesday to Friday.

SAWS  senior manager Rudzani Malala said the severe winter weather conditions are expected to bring drastic changes to the region,  which may lead to localised flooding, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.

He warned that wet and slippery roads could lead to hazardous driving conditions, advising motorists to exercise caution and follow safety measures.

He predicted that strong, gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees.

Malala said gale-force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights of 5.5 to 7.5 metres, are expected to affect the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape. 

“Coastal residents and beachgoers are urged to exercise caution,” Malala said.

As the system moves eastward, he said, the Eastern Cape will be impacted, a region already susceptible to weather-related effects.

“The key concern is the strong damaging winds expected across most parts of the province on Thursday. Interior winds are expected to pick up and spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, 26 and 27 June 2025, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category,” he said.

SAWS will closely monitor the weather systems and provide updates as necessary. For the latest information, follow SAWS on X (@SAWeatherService), Facebook (South African Weather Service), or other supported social media platforms.

Cape Times