A potent Cut-Off Low pressure system is set to sweep across South Africa’s southern regions from Wednesday through Thursday, prompting the South African Weather Service (SAWS) to issue alerts for severe winter weather, including widespread rain, gusty winds, plunging temperatures, and isolated snowfall.
Flood Concerns Heighten in Vulnerable Cape Regions
Communities in the Western and Eastern Cape—many still rebuilding after damage from a recent cut-off low—are now facing elevated flood risks. SAWS projects rainfall to expand significantly from Wednesday into Thursday, with the Garden Route District of the Western Cape and the central to western portions of the Eastern Cape expected to receive the heaviest precipitation.
Given that these areas remain in recovery mode from prior weather impacts, authorities caution that even moderate additional rainfall could trigger localized to significant flooding. Low-lying settlements, river crossings, roadways, and bridges are particularly susceptible.
“Fast-flowing streams and rivers may pose a danger to life,” SAWS noted, adding that major transport routes could experience disruptions due to inundation and severely limited visibility.
Mountain Snow Possible as Temperatures Plummet
Alongside the rain, a marked drop in daytime temperatures is forecast across affected provinces. As freezing levels in the lower atmosphere descend, conditions may support light, non-disruptive snowfall over elevated terrain, including:
- Higher-altitude zones in the Cape provinces
- The Drakensberg range in KwaZulu-Natal
- The Clarens vicinity in the Free State
While current Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models indicate only minimal snow accumulation, SAWS advises residents and travellers in mountainous areas to stay updated on forecast revisions, as model outputs can shift with new data.
Snowfall is anticipated over the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg on Thursday, 4 June 2026. However, accumulations along Van Reenen’s Pass on the N3 highway are not expected to cause major transport interruptions at this time.
Coastal Communities and Mariners Urged to Exercise Caution
Gale-force winds and turbulent sea conditions are predicted along:
- The south-western and southern coasts of the Western Cape
- The southern coastline of the Eastern Cape
These marine hazards could complicate navigation, especially for small boats and personal watercraft. SAWS strongly discourages fishing or recreational activities at sea during the warning window.
Essential Safety Measures for Residents
In light of the approaching system, SAWS and disaster management partners recommend the following precautions:
🔹 Track official updates: Follow SAWS bulletins via their website, app, or verified social media channels.
🔹 Postpone non-essential travel: Avoid journeys during periods of intense rain or active flooding.
🔹 Never drive through floodwaters: Submerged roads, bridges, or rivers can conceal deadly hazards.
🔹 Secure outdoor items: Anchor or store loose objects that strong winds could dislodge.
🔹 Stay clear of hazardous coastlines: Refrain from beach visits, fishing, or water-based recreation during wind and sea warnings.
🔹 Safeguard animals: Ensure livestock and pets have access to warm, dry shelter and protection from the elements.
🔹 Assemble emergency supplies: Prepare kits containing flashlights, extra batteries, warm clothing, blankets, drinking water, non-perishable food, and necessary medications.
Stay Alert as Forecasts Evolve
Weather systems of this scale can develop rapidly. SAWS encourages the public, emergency services, and logistics operators to consult official channels regularly for the latest forecasts, warnings, and situational guidance.
*All information in this report is sourced from official advisories issued by the South African Weather Service. For real-time weather updates follow the SAWS website.*
