The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says a cold front is expected to make landfall over the Western and Northern Cape on Sunday, bringing cold to very cold, wet and windy conditions as well as rough sea conditions, with snowfall, over the mountainous areas.
These conditions, associated with a steep upper-air trough, are expected to spread to the Eastern Cape as the system moves eastwards.
On Monday, 10 August 2026, the upper-air trough is expected to deepen even further as it moves over the central to eastern parts of the country, spreading the cold to very cold conditions with rain and showers further inland, while scattered to widespread rain and showers are expected over the southern parts of the country. Snow is expected over the mountainous areas of the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga.
While there is a low probability of light snow in some higher-lying areas outside these regions, confidence remains highest over the mentioned mountain ranges.
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The main impacts associated with this weather system include:
- Localised flooding in low-lying areas, roads, bridges and informal settlements due to persistent rainfall.
- Damaging winds, which may result in fallen trees, damage to roofs and infrastructure, power interruptions, and hazardous driving conditions.
- Damaging waves and rough seas along the coastline, posing a risk to maritime activities and coastal infrastructure.
- Very cold conditions, which may increase the risk of exposure for vulnerable communities and place stress on livestock.
- Snow over mountain passes, potentially resulting in hazardous travel conditions, road closures, and disruptions to transport.
"We encourage the public, motorists, farmers, and disaster management authorities to remain informed by following updates and warnings issued by the South African Weather Service and to take the necessary precautions as this weather system progresses across the country."
