Western Cape snow

Snow is expected in parts of the Eastern and Western Cape this weekend. Photo:Stock/Canva

First snow expected to make landfall TODAY – level 4 snow warning issued

The first snow is expected! The SA Weather Service issued a level 4 snow warning for TODAY in the Eastern Cape.

Western Cape snow

Snow is expected in parts of the Eastern and Western Cape this weekend. Photo:Stock/Canva

The first snow is expected! A level 4 snow warning was issued for TODAY in the Eastern Cape.

THE FIRST SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED AROUND MIDDAY ON FRIDAY

The SA Weather Services (SAWS) said the first snowfall is expected to make landfall in Umzimvubu and Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape. 

“The accumulation of snow might result in isolated loss of vulnerable livestock and with snowmelt resulting in slippery driving conditions.”

It furthermore urged small stock farmers are encouraged to shelter animals. Residents should dress warmly and avoid high mountain passes.

FARMERS URGED TO SHELTER ANIMALS

Snowfall is expected to start around midday on Friday and is expected to continue until midnight Saturday evening. 

Meanwhile, the SAWS has issued a level 5 warning for disruptive rain for several other parts of the Eastern Cape

The rain is expected to start late on Friday. 

“Flooding of roads, formal/informal settlements, low-lying bridges, and areas, as well as infrastructure, is expected.

“Disruptions to traffic and municipal services can be expected. Dangerous driving conditions are possible.”

It furthermore urged residents to listen for regular weather updates via radio and/or social media. 

ALSO READ: KZN Level 4 weather WARNING – Everything you need to know

LEVEL 5 WARNING FOR DISRUPTIVE RAIN EXPECTED FOR REST OF EC

“Postpone travel arrangements until it is safer to travel. Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams. Monitor the weather conditions and, if need be, identify areas to safely store valuable items from floodwater.”

The areas that will be affected: 

  • Raymond Mhlaba 
  • Fort Beaufort
  • Ngqushwa
  • Peddie
  • Buffalo City
  • East london
  • Ndlambe
  • Port Alfred
  • Blue Crane Route
  • Somerset East

Meanwhile, a level 4 warning also for disruptive rain was issued for Friday for the following areas: 

  • Enoch Magijima
  • Molteno
  • Dr Beyers Naude
  • Graaff-Reinet 
  • Mnquma
  • Butterworth

TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN DRIVING

All road users are requested to take extra caution:

  • Reduce speed
  • Switch on your headlights
  • Pedestrians should be careful when crossing the road
  • Avoid crossing rivers and streams where water is above your ankles

Households were urged to open/make pathways to allow water to flow out of their yards.

Here is a checklist for residents to prepare for the extreme rainfall: 

  • Make sure that drainage pipes on your property are not blocked
  • Make sure that the stormwater gutters around your property are free from debris
  • Check for dead or burnt trees that have the potential of falling onto your property and causing damage
  • Place sandbags where necessary to protect critical areas
  • Check the terms of your insurance policy with regard to flood and mud damage
  • In informal settlements, raise the floor level of your home to be higher than the land outside
  • Listen to weather warnings that are issued by the South African Weather Service

ALSO READ: WATCH: Tropical cyclones could hit KZN in the future – experts warn