This week Joburg is experiencing its first significant cold spell. Cold temperatures, rain, and snow are expected around the country.
“Contrary to popular belief,” said Lulama Pheme from the National Forecasting Centre of the South African Weather Service, “rain on the Highveld during winter is not all that unusual. Yes, it is our ‘dry season’, but that doesn’t mean we won’t get any rain whatsoever.”
“Technically speaking,” she explained, “there is a cut-off low over the south-western parts of the country, associated with a surface trough from eastern Botswana through the central parts of North-west province, to a low that is south-west of the country. Now Gauteng is east of the surface trough and, at upper levels there is upper level divergence which results in a dynamic effect, and that in turn results in scattered showers over Gauteng. Due to the cold temperatures over Gauteng the rain will fall in the form of sleet.”
The movement of this cold air is expected to cause a marked drop in temperature to freezing levels over the Eastern Cape, where moderate to heavy snow may result. For Gautengers planning a trip to Tiffindell or Afriski, this is probably a good time to dust off your skis or snowboards and head out of town to hit the slopes.
The public is urged to follow forecasts on TV and radio.
Alternatively, check the South African Weather Service – www.weathersa.co.za for updates, or follow @SAWeatherServic on Twitter.
Details: South African Weather Service National Forecasting Centre, 012 367 6041.
