The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued urgent warnings for bitterly cold, wet, and windy conditions set to impact large portions of the country from Wednesday into Thursday, driven by an intensifying Cut-Off Low (COL) pressure system.
Elevated Flood Risk in Recently Affected Regions
Areas across the Western and Eastern Cape—still recovering from damage caused by a previous cut-off low—are now classified as high-risk for renewed flooding. SAWS forecasts widespread rainfall beginning Wednesday, with the heaviest precipitation expected over the Garden Route District of the Western Cape and extending into central and western sectors of the Eastern Cape.
“Rainfall associated with the Cut-Off Low is expected to become widespread from Wednesday into Thursday,” the service stated. “The anticipated rainfall may lead to localised to significant flooding of susceptible areas, including roads, bridges, low-lying settlements, and river crossings.”
Authorities warn that fast-flowing streams and rivers could endanger lives, while major transport corridors face disruption from inundation and severely reduced visibility.
Snowfall Forecast for Elevated Terrain
As the system progresses, freezing levels in the lower atmosphere are projected to descend significantly, enabling light snowfall over high-altitude regions. Affected areas include:
- Higher-lying terrain across the Cape provinces
- The Drakensberg mountains of KwaZulu-Natal
- The Clarens area of the Free State
While current numerical weather prediction models indicate only light, non-disruptive accumulations, SAWS urges mountain communities and travellers to monitor forecast updates closely, as conditions may evolve with newer model data.
Snow is expected over the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg on Thursday, 4 June 2026. However, snow depth along Van Reenen’s Pass on the N3 highway is not anticipated to cause significant transport disruption at this time.
Coastal Hazards and Marine Warnings
Strong to gale-force winds and rough sea conditions are forecast along:
- The south-western and southern coastline of the Western Cape
- The southern coastline of the Eastern Cape
These conditions pose serious risks to maritime navigation, particularly for small vessels and personal watercraft. Recreational sea activities and coastal fishing are strongly discouraged during the warning period.
Temperature Drop and Public Safety Advisories
A sharp decline in daytime temperatures is expected across all affected provinces. In response, SAWS and disaster management authorities have issued the following public advisories:
✅ Stay informed: Monitor official SAWS updates and warnings via verified channels.
✅ Limit travel: Avoid non-essential journeys during heavy rain or flooding.
✅ Never cross floodwaters: Do not attempt to drive or walk through flooded roads, bridges, or swollen rivers.
✅ Secure property: Anchor loose outdoor items that could become hazardous in strong winds.
✅ Exercise coastal caution: Avoid shorelines and marine activities during gale warnings.
✅ Protect animals: Ensure livestock and pets have adequate shelter, warmth, and protection.
✅ Prepare emergency kits: Include flashlights, batteries, warm clothing, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and essential medications.
Ongoing Monitoring Recommended
SAWS emphasizes that weather systems of this nature can evolve rapidly. Residents, emergency responders, and transport operators are encouraged to consult the official SAWS website, mobile app, or social media platforms for real-time forecasts, warnings, and bulletins.
*This article is based on official advisories issued by the South African Weather Service. For the latest updates monitor the SAWS website.*