As the weekend approaches, a significant heat event is set to impact several South African provinces, coupled with the potential for scattered thunderstorms. This combination of high temperatures and convective activity requires careful planning, whether you’re staying home or traveling. Here is a detailed, province-by-province breakdown for Saturday, 27 December, and Sunday, 28 December, with essential context to help you understand and stay safe in the conditions.
NORTH WEST
North West Province: Heat with a Chance of Relief
The North West will experience warm to hot conditions under a partly cloudy sky. The key feature will be scattered showers and thundershowers, which are expected to be isolated in the extreme south-east. These storms, while offering temporary relief from the heat, can develop quickly and bring gusty winds, lightning, and brief heavy downpours.
MAHIKENG
Mahikeng Specifics: The provincial capital will mirror the regional trend. Saturday will be hot, peaking at 33°C, with a minimum of 18°C. Scattered showers and thundershowers are likely. Sunday will see a slight cooldown but remain very warm, with highs of 29°C and similar storm potential. Practical Tip: The late afternoon is the most common time for thunderstorm development. Schedule outdoor activities for the morning and stay informed via weather radar apps.
KWAZULU-NATAL
KwaZulu-Natal: Cooler but Unsettled Coastal Conditions
In contrast to the inland heat, KwaZulu-Natal will see cloudy, cool to warm weather with widespread scattered showers and thundershowers. Coastal winds will be light to moderate south-easterly, shifting to easterly to north-easterly in the south. This pattern suggests moist air flowing inland, fueling the persistent rainfall.
DURBAN
Durban Specifics: Residents can expect a damp weekend. Saturday will be cloudy with scattered showers and rain, with a narrow temperature range of 21°C to 24°C. Sunday promises more of the same, with a high of only 23°C. Practical Tip: While not hot, the persistent dampness can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility. Ensure your vehicle’s wipers and lights are in working order, and allow for extra travel time.
FREE STATE
Free State: Intense Heat Building Through the Weekend
The Free State forecast highlights a warm to hot trend, starting with morning cloudiness in the east on Saturday. Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are predicted, mainly avoiding the extreme west. The term “isolated” means not everyone will see rain, but where storms do form, they could be potent.
BLOEMFONTEIN
Bloemfontein Specifics: The heat is on an upward trajectory. Saturday will start fine, becoming partly cloudy with isolated storms, and a high of 33°C. Sunday is forecast to be even hotter, reaching 34°C. Critical Health Context: Temperatures exceeding 32°C pose a high risk for heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. This is especially dangerous for the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak sun (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), and never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
Weekend Weather Preparedness Checklist
- Hydration is Non-Negotiable: Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty.
- Sun Protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade.
- Storm Readiness: Have a plan for seeking safe shelter if thunderstorms approach. Remember the 30/30 rule: If you see lightning, count until you hear thunder. If it’s 30 seconds or less, the storm is close enough to be dangerous. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before resuming outdoor activities.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Make a quick call or visit to neighbors or family members who may struggle in the heat.
Weather forecast data provided by the South African Weather Service. For real-time warnings and radar updates, visiting the SAWS website or their official social media channels is highly recommended.