A powerful cold front is expected to sweep across South Africa this weekend, bringing plummeting temperatures, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and even snow in several provinces. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that the freezing conditions could persist into early next week, with only Limpopo province likely to escape snowfall.
Widespread Snow and Disruptive Weather
According to meteorologist Mpho Rasimphi from SABC News, the cold front—supported by an upper-air cut-off low—will first hit the Western Cape on Saturday before moving into central and eastern regions by Sunday and Monday.
“This system is more intense than previous ones because of the cut-off low, which enhances rainfall and lowers freezing levels, leading to snowfall,” Rasimphi explained.
Areas expected to be hardest hit include the Free State, Eastern Cape, and high-lying regions of KwaZulu-Natal, where snow may settle. The Western Cape is also under a Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall, which could cause flooding, along with damaging coastal winds and waves reaching up to 8 meters.
Impact on Comrades Marathon Runners
The severe weather coincides with the Comrades Marathon on Sunday, where thousands of runners will race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. While conditions at the start are expected to be cold and windy, rain is only forecast for the afternoon, potentially affecting later finishers.
“Runners should prepare for chilly morning temperatures, but the worst of the rain will likely arrive in the evening,” Rasimphi noted.
Freezing Conditions Inland
Central provinces, including Gauteng, North West, and Mpumalanga, will feel the brunt of the cold on Monday and Tuesday, with daytime temperatures struggling to reach 10°C and overnight lows dropping below freezing. The Free State is expected to bear the worst of the cold, with icy conditions likely.
When Will It Warm Up?
Rasimphi indicated that the extreme cold should ease by Wednesday, though winter temperatures will persist. “Monday and Tuesday will be the most severe—stay indoors if possible and dress warmly,” he advised.
Safety Warnings
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution, particularly in flood-prone areas and along the coast, where strong winds may cause damage. Motorists have also been warned of hazardous driving conditions due to potential snow and ice on roads in high-altitude regions.
As South Africans brace for the icy blast, the message is clear: bundle up and stay safe as winter tightens its grip.
Stay tuned for further weather updates.
