Polokwane placed on thunderstorm watch, stormy weather expected tomorrow

POLOKWANE – This extreme weather is expected to be predominantly in the form of severe thunderstorms and/or heavy rainfall which may lead to localised flooding. Cold frontal air is currently in circulation over KwaZulu-Natal and is in the process of encroaching into Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Free State, Gauteng.

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This is resulting in the development of isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers as the cooler, moist air in the east interacts with hotter air over the interior of the country and Polokwane has been placed on a severe thunderstorm watch as a result.

The weather service says a conflict of airmass is expected to be most pronounced along the escarpment regions of Limpopo and Mpumalanga today, hence it is over these areas where some storms may become severe this afternoon and this evening, 31 October.

“Such severe storms are likely to be associated with one or more of large damaging hail, strong wind damage or localised flooding. It can also be mentioned that there is currently an extremely dangerous risk of veld fires over central Limpopo province today, due to the persistently hot conditions over this region,” a statement read.

By tomorrow (Thursday), rainfall in the form of showers and thundershowers is likely to persist over a similar, but more extensive spatial area, including the whole of Limpopo. 

The South African Weather Service advises 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 whilst 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 authorized officials issuing an order to evacuate; abandon the dwelling without undue 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 says they will continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required.

raeesak@nmgroup.co.za