Cold front brings rain and chills to South Africa this weekend

South Africa is bracing for a cold and wet weekend as a significant cold front sweeps across the country. Residents can expect widespread cooling, with a strong chance of rain, particularly in the eastern and southern regions.

On Friday, August 1, the cold front begins its approach from the southwest, bringing very cold conditions to the Western Cape, including towns like Worcester and Sutherland, where temperatures will hover around a chilly 10 to 20°C.

Rain probability in this area is indicated by the 30% to 50% chance. Further north, the interior will experience cool to cold conditions. Johannesburg, Pretoria, and other major cities in Gauteng will see cool temperatures, with a low rain probability.

The eastern coastline, from Port St Johns up to Durban, has a 30% to 40% chance of rain as the front makes its presence felt. Musina and Polokwane in the far north will remain warm with fine weather. Strong southerly winds are expected to usher in the cooler air, especially along the coasts.

By Saturday, August 2, the cold air mass will have fully entrenched itself across most of South Africa.

Very cold conditions persist in the Western Cape, with a continued chance of rain along the coast, though the probability seems slightly lower than Friday.

The interior, including areas around Kimberley and De Aar, will be cold. Johannesburg and Pretoria will remain cool.

The most significant rainfall activity is anticipated along the eastern coastline, from Port St Johns to Durban, where a 30% to 60% chance of rain is indicated. Even further north, Musina and Polokwane will transition from warm to cool conditions.

The strong southerly winds will continue to dominate, particularly in the western and southern coastal areas. Expect a generally chilly and damp day across much of the country.

IOL News