Disruptive SNOW expected TODAY in these parts of SA

Disruptive SNOW expected TODAY in these parts of SA Photos: Stock

Snow expected to make landfall TOMORROW – snow warning issued

MORE snow is expected! The SA Weather Service (SAWS) issued a snow warning for TOMORROW in the Eastern Cape.

Disruptive SNOW expected TODAY in these parts of SA

Disruptive SNOW expected TODAY in these parts of SA Photos: Stock

The first snow is expected! A level 1 snow warning was issued for TOMORROW in the Eastern Cape.

THE FIRST SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED AROUND MIDDAY

The SA Weather Services (SAWS) said the first snowfall is expected to make landfall around midday on Thursday and continue until Friday.

“The first cut-off low is expected to pass over the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape, resulting in a chance of showers and thundershowers as it moves through.

“The upper-air system is expected to significantly drop to freezing levels, therefore resulting in a chance of snowfall over the north-eastern high ground.”

SAWS

FARMERS URGED TO SHELTER ANIMALS

It furthermore warned that the accumulation of snow might result in isolated loss of vulnerable livestock and with snowmelt resulting in slippery driving conditions.

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

HERE ARE THE AREAS THAT MIGHT BE AFFECTED:

  • Aliwal North
  • Burgersdorp
  • Dukathole
  • Jamestown
  • Khayamnandi
  • Mzamomhle
  • Nozizwe
  • Oviston
  • Steynsburg
  • Tembisa
  • VenterstadAmahlubi
  • Amazizi
  • Asentshonalanga
  • Bakoena
  • Basoto
  • Batlokoa
  • Hlubi
  • JK Bokwe
  • Maclear
  • Mati’s
  • Matolandile/Zimelelandile
  • Mount Fletcher
  • Mount Fletcher
  • Ngcele
  • Ntywenka Forest
  • Ugie

Meanwhile, the SAWS has issued a level 5 warning for disruptive rain for several other parts of the Eastern Cape and level 2 warning for parts of the Western Cape and Northern Cape.

The rain is expected to start today.  

“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.”

SAWS

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

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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.”

Snow expected to make landfall on TOMORROW - snow warning issued
Snow expected to make landfall on TOMORROW – snow warning issued Photo: SAWS

The areas that will be affected by level 5 warning: 

  • Joe Morolong
  • Hotazel
  • Dawid Kruiper
  • Upington
  • Siyancuma
  • Griquastad

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

  • !Kheis
  • Groblershoop
  • Renosterberg
  • Petrusville
  • Emthanjeni
  • De Aar
  • Hessequa
  • Riversdale
  • Stellenbosch
  • Knysna

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

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