Weather alert: Thunderstorms in NC, while hot, humid conditions grip EC

The South African Weather Service (Saws) has warned of severe thunderstorms, extreme heat and fire danger, prompting warnings as forecasters flag flooding risks, damaging winds and uncomfortable conditions on Tuesday. The weather service has released its latest weather forecast for 17 February 2026. Theweather servicehas issued a yellow level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms associated with strong, damaging winds, hail, excessive lightning, and heavy downpours leading to flooding of susceptible roads and settlements, as well as low-lying bridges/areas, expected over Kai Igarib, Ikheis, Siyathemba, Kareeberg, and Ubuntu Local Municipalities.

Hot and humid weather will result in extremely uncomfortable conditions in parts of the Sarah Baartman DM, Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Buffalo City Metro, and Amathole DM. Here’s what to expect in your province on Tuesday, 17 February 2026: Residents of Gauteng can expect partly cloudy and cool to warm weather. Residents should take the necessary precautions against prolonged sun exposure.

Mpumalanga residents can expect partly cloudy conditions at first; otherwise, it will be fine and cool to warm. Partly cloudy and warm weather awaits North West residents, with isolated showers and thundershowers in the western and southwestern parts.