SA braces for hot, dry weekend as heatwave persists

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ExpandSouth Africans can expect hot and largely dry conditions across much of the country this weekend, with the possibility of showers and thundershowers in some areas. Picture: Tom Wang Story audio is generated using AI

South Africans can expect hot and largely dry conditions across much of the country this weekend, with below-normal rainfall forecast in several provinces over the coming weeks, the South African Weather Service (Saws) has warned.

In its sub-seasonal outlook covering October 21 to November 3, Saws said the highest temperatures were expected in Limpopo, Mpumalanga’s Lowveld, parts of the North West and Northern Cape, as well as northern Gauteng.

Below-normal rainfall is forecast across much of the country, particularly in the summer rainfall regions of KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, the eastern Free State, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and the North West.

Meteorologist and weather forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela said the forecast indicated generally hot and dry conditions over much of the central and eastern parts of South Africa.

However, parts of the western interior could experience relatively wetter and cooler conditions as the forecast period progresses. These areas include:

“Showers and thunderstorms may develop over these areas as the forecast period progresses,” Thobela said, adding that the distribution and intensity of rainfall would depend on prevailing weather systems.

Saws warned that prolonged periods of high temperatures and below-normal rainfall could place additional pressure on water resources, agriculture and communities that depend on regular rainfall

For this weekend, residents in Gauteng, North West and the Free State can expect generally fine and warm to hot conditions.

In Limpopo, the heatwave affecting parts of the western bushveld is expected to remain a concern. Mpumalanga is forecast to experience partly cloudy conditions in its eastern parts, with isolated light showers and rain possible along the escarpment.

The Northern Cape is expected to remain mostly fine and warm to hot, although cooler conditions are forecast in the extreme south.

KwaZulu-Natal is expected to be cloudy and warm, with isolated showers, while the Eastern Cape is forecast to experience partly cloudy to cloudy and cool conditions.

Saws warned that prolonged periods of high temperatures and below-normal rainfall could place additional pressure on water resources, agriculture and communities that depend on regular rainfall.

Higher temperatures increase evaporation from dams, reservoirs and soil. Combined with reduced rainfall, this could put further pressure on water resources, particularly in areas already experiencing water constraints.

People are urged to check on vulnerable family members and neighbours and remain alert to official heatwave advisories

Farmers could also face reduced soil moisture, increased irrigation requirements and heat stress affecting crops and livestock if the conditions persist.

Thobela said the public should take precautions against excessive heat, particularly vulnerable groups such as young children, older people and those with underlying health conditions.

Residents are encouraged to drink sufficient water, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing and take regular breaks when working outdoors.

People are also urged to check on vulnerable family members and neighbours and remain alert to official heatwave advisories.

Saws said sub-seasonal forecasts indicate likely weather patterns over two to four weeks rather than exact daily conditions. While the outlook points to generally above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall across much of the country, confidence varies by region and weather parameter.

The public has also been urged to exercise caution in Mahikeng and Ratlou in the North West, where extremely high fire danger conditions have been forecast. Activities that could ignite veld fires should be avoided.

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