Cut-off low to bring SEVERE weather conditions to SA TODAY

According to the Severe Weather and Information Centre SA, the latest satellite image for today, 29 May, reveals active showers and thundershowers over the central and south-eastern parts of the country; these weather conditions are associated with a cut-off low, which is expected to bring further severe weather conditions.

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Cut-off low to bring SEVERE weather conditions

The day is projected to become stormy in various areas of South Africa as weather conditions deteriorate.

The presence of a cut-off low, characterized by a black south easter feature, will result in adverse weather conditions across parts of the country today.

ALSO READ: Eastern Cape Weather: Warning for DISRUPTIVE rain, FLOODS

Scattered to widespread showers, thundershowers, and storms are expected in the central and southern regions of South Africa.

Several severe weather warnings have been issued for today, covering the central, south-western, and south-eastern parts of South Africa.

ALSO READ: Western Cape: Warning issued for DISRUPTIVE rain and FLOODS

The potential hazards include:

1. Strong to severe thunderstorms with heavy rain, leading to flooding, flash flooding, mudslides, and rockfalls.
2. Hail.
3. Excessive lightning.
4. Rough sea conditions along the south-west and south coast.
5. Damaging winds: Near-gale to Gale force sustained winds (50-62km/h) with Severe Gale to Storm Force wind gusts (75-102 km/h) are possible along the south and southwest coast of the Western Cape, as well as along the south coast of the Eastern Cape today.

It is important to note that a Wind Gust refers to a brief increase in wind speed, typically lasting less than 20 seconds.

High winds and gusts can cause significant damage.

Major wind gusts have the potential to knock down people, trees, powerlines, and communication towers.

ALSO READ: Northern Cape Weather: THUNDERSHOWERS throughout the day

HOW TO STAY SAFE DURING HEAVY RAIN

During extreme rainy weather, it is important to take every precaution to stay safe; here are a few tips.

• During storms, people living in low-lying areas must take special care as sudden floods might affect them.
• They should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises.
• Use other routes and do not cross through flooded roads or bridges.
• Avoid crossing low-lying bridges, streams, and rivers.
• Never try to walk, swim, or drive in swift-flowing water as it can sweep you off your feet.
• Motorists must be very careful and avoid driving through flooded areas.
• Drive to and park at safer areas.
• Monitor weather alerts on radio and television.
• Contact municipal disaster management centers, the nearest police station, or call the national emergency numbers (112, 10177, or 107) when faced with threats.
• Do not try to drive over a low-water bridge if water is flowing strongly across it and the ground is not visible.
• Teach children about the dangers of floods.
• Keep important documents in a water-resistant container.
• Keep cell phones in close proximity and have emergency numbers at hand.
• Be especially vigilant at night as it is harder to recognize potentially deadly road hazards.
• Do not camp or park cars along rivers or washes, especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms.
• If on foot, be aware that low moving water can also be dangerous during flood conditions.
• Do not walk into moving water.

“Communities are encouraged to try to avoid contact with any flood waters as it may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, or other dangerous substances and may also be charged with electricity from fallen power lines.” the statement by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs concluded.

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