Kimberley, break out the beanies: Winter's knocking (and it's not being polite)

HEADS up, Kimberley! A feisty cold front is muscling its way across South Africa – and while we’re dodging snowstorms and deluges being dished out to our coastal cousins, we’re still in for a bit of a slap from winter’s frosty hand. This week, expect gusty winds, chilly nights, and a drop in daytime warmth – plus a cheeky little drizzle for good measure.

We’re getting a frosty reminder that winter is knocking – and it’s not being polite about it. Here’s how the week is shaping up:

Tuesday, May 20 – "Welcome, Cold Front!"

The fiercest cold front we’ve seen this season is blowing into town with serious attitude. Winds are howling out of the north-northwest at 33km/h, with gusts topping 67km/h – enough to turn umbrellas inside-out and send your washing on an unplanned adventure.

Daytime highs hit a deceptively pleasant 24°C under a thick blanket of cloud (98% cover – sun not invited). But don’t let that fool you: by evening, a light shower or two may sneak in (60% chance), and temperatures plunge to a chilly 4°C. It’s a good night to swap your cold brew for hot chocolate.

Wednesday, May 21 – "Cold Front Fallout."

The aftermath of the front settles in hard, dropping us to an icy 15°C during the day. A bit of sunshine does its best to break through, but it’s fighting a losing battle against that crisp, dry air and 50km/h gusts blowing in from the south-southwest. You’ll want to layer up, even if the skies look friendly.

As the sun sets, temperatures nosedive to a biting 2°C, with many low-lying areas likely dipping below freezing. Prepare for a windshield-scraping session, because you can expect frost on your car, your lawn – and possibly your soul.

Thursday, May 22 – "Here Comes the Sun (But Keep the Scarf)."

After a frosty start to the week, Thursday arrives like that one friend who shows up late but brings snacks. The clouds take the day off, leaving us with bright blue skies and a welcome high of 20°C – practically balmy by this week’s standards. The wind settles into a gentler breeze, making it a perfect day to enjoy some sunshine, stretch your legs, or even brave an outdoor lunch – sweater strongly advised.

But as the sun dips, so do the temperatures. The evening chill returns, dropping to 2°C once again. So enjoy the sunshine while it lasts – because the scarf you took off at lunch will be back around your neck by dinner.

Friday, May 23 – "Settling into a Winter Groove."

A repeat of Thursday, but just a nudge warmer at 21°C. It’s sunny, calm, and crisp – the kind of day that makes you want to sip something fancy outdoors and pretend you’re in a lifestyle advert for autumn fashion or artisanal rooibos. The breeze stays light and the skies remain clear – about as good as it gets this time of year.

But while the afternoon may flirt with comfort, the night isn’t ready to let go of winter’s grip. Temperatures will once again dip to 2°C, so don’t get cocky and pack away your blankets. The cold clings to the early hours - a good excuse to stay in bed a little longer.

Final Word: Winter Has Entered the Chat

This week marks the official handshake – or rather, a brisk slap – between Kimberley and winter. The cold front might not be dramatic by national standards, but it’s definitely sending us a message: the sunny highs of April are history, and it’s time to reacquaint yourself with slippers, scarves, and soups.

Stay warm, stay grounded (those gusts still have an agenda), and don’t be fooled by the midday sunshine – winter has entered the chat, and it’s only just warming up … metaphorically, of course.

Source: AccuWeather