South Africa braces for a dramatic change in weather on Friday as a broad band of cloud rolls across the central interior, bringing isolated thunderstorms and cooler conditions to parts of the Northern Cape, Free State, Eastern Cape, and southern KwaZulu-Natal.

The South African Weather Service is forecasting a 30% chance of isolated rainfall in these areas, with the potential for brief but intense thundershowers during the day.

The early signs of the approaching system are already visible, with temperatures expected to dip in Bloemfontein, De Aar, and Mthatha. 

While rainfall is not expected to be widespread, the storm cells that do develop could deliver short-lived heavy rain, gusty winds, and lightning, particularly around Kimberley, Aliwal North, and parts of the Eastern Cape highlands.

In contrast, the northeastern regions including Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and parts of Gauteng will remain dry and warm, with sunshine dominating the skies.

Mbombela, in particular, is expected to sizzle under hot conditions, while Pretoria and Johannesburg remain partly cloudy with a mild breeze.

Western parts of the country, including Cape Town and the west coast, will enjoy cooler, fine weather, although brisk winds of up to 30 km/h along the southern coastline may add a chill to the air.

The severe thunderstorm warning that was issued for Upington on Thursday is expected to ease, as the main system shifts eastward.

With the central heartland under cloud and the risk of isolated thunderstorms lingering into the afternoon, Friday’s weather calls for both umbrellas and caution.

While the storms may be short-lived, they could be disruptive, especially for farmers, commuters, and communities in rural areas.

IOL News

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