Thursday Weather: Severe storms in Limpopo and extreme heat in Western Cape
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms over parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga on Thursday.
Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected across these provinces, with a medium likelihood of storms becoming severe in the central and western areas.
SAWS warned that heavy downpours may lead to localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas, and bridges. Strong, gusty winds and hail could cause damage to roofs and carports, while lightning poses a risk of injuries and power surges.
“Localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges. Localised damages to informal/formal houses or structures, roofs and carports, due to hail and strong winds. Disruption of services such as power surges and bodily injuries caused by lightning,” said SAWS.
Rainfall probabilities indicate a 30% chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms in some areas, increasing to 60% scattered chances across central parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Conditions will otherwise remain dry over much of the interior and western regions.
Meanwhile, very to extremely hot conditions are expected over parts of the Western and Northern Cape, including the Kamiesberg, Matzikama, Cederberg, and Bergrivier municipalities. Daytime temperatures are forecast to reach the high 30s and lower 40s.
SAWS cautioned that such intense heat can have serious health impacts, urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
The rest of the country will experience generally dry and warm weather, with no significant weather alerts elsewhere.
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