South Africans hoping to ring in the New Year under clear skies may need to keep umbrellas close at hand. This is because widespread rain and severe thunderstorms threaten celebrations across large parts of the country on Wednesday night. The South African Weather Service (Saws) has warned that weather conditions are set to deteriorate on New Year’s Eve.
Heavy rainfall, hail and damaging winds are expected in several central and eastern regions. According toSaws, “scattered to widespread rainfall is expected across central and eastern parts of the country. There will be heavy downpours and possible thunderstorms in some areas”.
At the same time, western regions are likely to remain mostly dry. The warning comes as many South Africans plan outdoor festivities, fireworks displays and travel to holiday destinations. “The public is advised to exercise caution,” Saws said, urging residents to remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions.
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The most severe weather is expected in parts of the Eastern Cape. “The South African Weather Service has issued a yellow level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms. These storms will be accompanied by heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning, and hail,” the service said.
These conditions are expected to result in “flooding and damage to infrastructure and settlements” over the OR Tambo and Amathole Districts. Local authorities and residents in these areas have been urged to closely monitor weather alerts. They should avoid unnecessary travel during storms.
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