Severe thunderstorms loom over central and eastern South Africa, bringing the risk of heavy rainfall and flooding.
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Media.
An unsettled and stormy Tuesday is expected across much of South Africa, as summer rainfall intensifies—particularly over the central and eastern interior.
The South African Weather Service has forecast a high likelihood of thunderstorms developing from late morning into the afternoon, with some becoming severe.
The greatest chances of rain are expected over the central interior, including the Northern Cape interior, Free State and parts of the Eastern Cape, where scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms are likely.
Rainfall probabilities in these areas are around 60%, with some locations expecting widespread activity. These storms may bring heavy downpours, frequent lightning, strong, gusty winds and small hail. Localised flooding of low-lying areas and reduced visibility on roads are possible.
A yellow-level warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms affecting parts of the central and southern interior, including areas around Kimberley, Bloemfontein, Cradock and Aliwal North.
Heavy rain may fall over short periods in these areas, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable settlements and along drainage systems.
Further east, including KwaZulu-Natal and the eastern Free State, scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast, with rain probabilities of around 60%.
Coastal areas of the Eastern Cape may also see showers later in the day, while the south coast has a lower, yet notable, 30% chance of rain.
In the northern provinces, including Limpopo and Mpumalanga, more isolated thunderstorms are expected, with rain probabilities near 30%. While rainfall will be less widespread here, brief heavy showers and lightning remain possible.
The western parts of the Northern Cape and much of the Western Cape are expected to remain mostly dry.
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay alert to changing weather conditions, particularly during the afternoon and evening, and to take caution when travelling in stormy conditions.
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IOL News
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