Stormy weather expected across Limpopo this weekend

The risk for severe storms will be the highest over Southern Limpopo on Friday, and will spread west on Saturday.

Thunderstorm file image.

The eastern parts of the country can expect stormy weather as from today, January 25 through to Sunday, 27 January, warns the South African Weather Service.

Affected provinces include Limpopo, north-eastern Free State, western KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga.

Storms in some of these areas may become severe, producing one or a combination of the following; large hail, an abundance of small hail, heavy downpours which could lead to localised flooding, and strong damaging winds

Forecaster Kgolofelo Mahlangu said: “The risk for severe storms will be the highest over southern Limpopo and the Mpumalanga highveld on Friday, spreading west on Saturday. Possible impacts from these expected conditions include road-flooding resulting in travel disruptions and damage to infrastructure.”

Left: Predicted 24-hour accumulation of rainfall for Saturday, 26 January. Right: expected maximum temperatures on Sunday, 27 January. Photo: South African Weather Service

According to the forecast, there is a 60% chance of rain expected in Polokwane on Saturday and a 30% chance on Sunday. Temperatures will also drop to 25 degrees on Sunday.

Mahlangu says the South African Weather Service has therefore advised the public to take heed of the following precautionary measures when encountering flooding:

· If possible, stay indoors, and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above one’s ankles.

· If trapped in a flooding situation while in a vehicle, it is preferable to abandon it and climb to higher ground.

· In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch off electricity at the supply point to the building.

· In rural areas, the safety of livestock can be assured by relocating them to a safe place on higher ground, preferably before the onset of inclement weather.

· In the event of duly authorised officials issuing an order to evacuate, abandon the dwelling without delay, unless access is cut off by rising floodwaters.

· NEVER drive on a road that is flooded or obscured by water. One cannot be certain how deep the water is and/or if the road has been eroded or washed away. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.

· Be especially cautious at night when it is difficult to identify flood hazards. Listen attentively to the radio or watch TV weather bulletins for warnings and obey the instructions from disaster management officials.

“The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required,” he concluded.

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