Cut-off low to bring heavy rain and damaging winds from Thursday

A strong cut-off low will move over the Western and Northern Cape from Thursday into Friday, bringing very cold, wet and windy conditions.

The system could trigger disruptive rainfall, damaging winds and rough coastal conditions, with authorities warning residents, motorists and farmers to prepare for possible impacts.

Heavy rain may flood roads and settlements

The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall over the Overberg and Garden Route District Municipalities in the Western Cape on Thursday.

The heavy rain could lead to flooding on roads and in settlements, while major disruptions to traffic flow are possible.

Residents in affected areas should monitor weather updates and avoid travelling through flooded roads.

Strong winds expected across parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape

A Yellow Level 4 warning for damaging winds is also in place for parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape from Thursday afternoon into Friday.

The warning covers the Namakwa District Municipality in the Northern Cape, as well as parts of the Cape Winelands, Central Karoo and Little Karoo in the Western Cape.

Strong winds could damage temporary structures, disrupt transport routes and pose a danger from flying debris.

Coastal areas face dangerous waves

The weather system is also expected to produce damaging coastal winds and waves between Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay from Thursday.

The conditions could disrupt harbour and port operations and create dangerous conditions for small vessels and marine activities.

The weather service has advised communities and small stock farmers to prepare for very cold, wet and windy conditions.

The cut-off low could also bring damaging interior winds and disruptive rainfall as it moves across the region.

Fire danger remains high in parts of the Northern Cape and Free State

Extremely high fire danger conditions will persist in parts of the eastern Northern Cape and south-eastern Free State despite the approaching rain.

Residents should avoid activities that could start veld fires and follow local safety advice.

The forecast may change as the week progresses, so residents should keep checking for the latest updates.