A severe cold front is set to sweep across South Africa this weekend, bringing plummeting temperatures, heavy rain, strong winds, and even snowfall in several provinces. Weather forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela has warned residents to brace for extreme winter conditions, with disruptive snowfall expected in the Eastern Cape and other high-lying areas.
Weekend Weather Warnings
The cold front will make landfall on Saturday, starting in the Western Cape before moving eastward. By Sunday, temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with snowfall predicted in the high-altitude regions of the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and Eastern Cape.
“Winter is here,” Thobela confirmed during a live broadcast. “The cold front will bring rain, strong winds, and snow, particularly in the Drakensberg Mountains and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.”
Disruptive Snow and Frost Expected
The most severe conditions are forecast for Monday, with disruptive snowfall likely in the Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal. Frost is also expected in parts of the North West and Free State, posing risks to crops and livestock.
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Sunday: Light snow begins in the Western and Northern Cape, spreading to the Eastern Cape by evening.
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Monday: Heavy, disruptive snowfall in the Eastern Cape and Drakensberg regions.
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Tuesday: Conditions ease slightly, but cold weather persists before temperatures rise midweek.
Impact on Comrades Marathon
The cold snap coincides with the Comrades Marathon on Sunday, where thousands of runners will trek from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Thobela assured that the race will begin under clear skies but warned of possible rain and chilly winds as runners approach Durban in the afternoon.
“Early morning will be cold but dry,” he said. “However, by late afternoon, Durban may see light rain and colder temperatures.”
Preparedness Urged
Authorities have advised residents in affected provinces to:
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Stock up on heating supplies
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Avoid unnecessary travel in snowy areas
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Protect vulnerable livestock and crops from frost
With winter’s grip tightening, South Africans are urged to stay updated on weather alerts and prepare for a bitterly cold week ahead.
For real-time updates, follow the South African Weather Service.
