SA faces severe storms, damaging winds and extreme fire danger today

South Africa faces a mix of severe weather today, with thunderstorms, damaging winds and extremely high fire danger conditions expected in parts of the country.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued Yellow Level 2 warnings for severe thunderstorms over parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, while some areas of Gauteng and North West face extremely high fire danger conditions.

Severe thunderstorms threaten KZN and Mpumalanga

Severe thunderstorms could bring heavy downpours, strong damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning to most of KwaZulu-Natal, except the extreme southern parts, as well as the eastern Highveld in Mpumalanga.

The storms could flood susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges, while strong winds and hail could damage settlements and infrastructure.

Damaging winds could disrupt travel

SAWS has also warned of damaging interior winds across most of KwaZulu-Natal, apart from the south-western parts.

The winds could damage settlements and affect some transport routes and travel services.

Along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, strong winds and waves could disrupt small harbours and a port.

Small vessels could take on water or capsize, while rough conditions could make navigation difficult.

Extremely high fire danger in Gauteng and North West

The weather service has also warned of extremely high fire danger conditions in Ratlou and Mahikeng local municipalities in North West, as well as the northern and central parts of Gauteng.

Residents in these areas should take extra care with any activities that could start or spread a fire.