Rain and Storms in South Africa – South Africa is facing a significant weather emergency this week as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple Red Level 6 and Level 9 weather alerts across several provinces. A massive weather system is moving across the country, bringing with it the threat of torrential rainfall, hailstorms, damaging winds, flash flooding, and major disruptions to infrastructure and daily life. With provinces like KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga already on edge due to past weather incidents, this new alert has prompted an immediate response from both local municipalities and national disaster management teams.
Weather experts have warned that certain areas could receive more than 100mm of rain in less than 24 hours, increasing the risk of landslides, road closures, and service outages. The public is urged to remain on high alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow all emergency guidance from officials.
Which Provinces Are Affected by the Red Alert?
SAWS has pinpointed seven provinces that are likely to bear the brunt of the storm activity between May 19 and May 25, 2025. Each of these regions is expected to experience different weather patterns, from coastal floods and hail to high-speed winds and inland thunderstorms.
Affected Provinces and Severity Levels:
- KwaZulu-Natal – Level 9 Red Alert; widespread flooding, hail, and infrastructure threats.
- Eastern Cape – Level 6 Red Alert; coastal storms, high waves, and severe winds.
- Mpumalanga – Level 6 Orange Alert; thunderstorms and landslide concerns.
- Gauteng – Level 5 Yellow Alert; gusty winds, heavy isolated showers.
- Free State – Level 6 Orange Alert; urban flooding and low visibility.
- North West – Level 6 Orange Alert; wind damage and hail forecasted.
- Limpopo – Level 4 Yellow Alert; milder but still disruptive rain and wind.
These warnings include both rural and urban areas, meaning vulnerable communities and even major cities like Durban, East London, and Pretoria could experience significant impacts.
Detailed Weather Forecast – Day-by-Day Breakdown
The forecast for the week has been released by SAWS to help residents and authorities prepare for the impacts ahead. This comprehensive overview includes anticipated weather conditions by province, potential hazards, and the severity of each day.
| Date | Province Affected | Alert Level | Forecast Details | Risk Type | Expected Rainfall | Wind Speed (km/h) | Impact Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon, May 19 | KwaZulu-Natal | Red Level 9 | Intense thunderstorms, hail, heavy floods | Flood, Hail | 110mm | 70-90 | Severe |
| Tue, May 20 | Eastern Cape | Red Level 6 | Coastal surge, winds, storm tide | Wind, Surge | 85mm | 60-75 | High |
| Wed, May 21 | Mpumalanga | Orange | Thunderstorm with land erosion | Rain, Landslide | 75mm | 45-55 | Medium |
| Thu, May 22 | Gauteng | Yellow | Scattered downpours, traffic delays | Rain, Wind | 40mm | 50-60 | Moderate |
| Fri, May 23 | North West | Orange | Severe winds and hail | Wind, Storm | 65mm | 70-80 | High |
| Sat, May 24 | Free State | Orange | Flash flooding, slippery roads | Flood, Rain | 70mm | 50-65 | Moderate |
| Sun, May 25 | Limpopo | Yellow | Light storms and overcast skies | Rain | 35mm | 30-40 | Low |
Key Weather Patterns to Watch
- Localized flooding in urban drainage systems, especially in Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Johannesburg.
- Strong wind gusts that can uproot trees and damage informal housing.
- Disruption to air and road transport, including delays and cancellations at airports and roadblocks on major highways.
- Falling temperatures after the front passes, with a possibility of early winter chills.
Safety Tips During the Red Alert
Residents in high-alert regions should take the following precautions seriously:
- Stay indoors during peak storm hours.
- Keep emergency kits ready, including water, food, flashlights, and medicines.
- Avoid driving, especially at night or in low-lying flooded areas.
- Monitor SAWS weather alerts on radio, social media, or through mobile apps.
- Secure pets, outdoor furniture, and vehicles.
Impact on Daily Life and Services
The severe weather is likely to disrupt essential public services and utilities, especially in areas prone to flooding or poor drainage infrastructure.
Services at Risk:
- Electricity: Falling trees and lightning strikes may lead to blackouts.
- Water Supply: Flooding could contaminate water sources.
- Healthcare: Clinics may face staffing issues or accessibility challenges.
- Transportation: Airports and bus terminals may see significant delays.
Service Disruption Forecast by Region
| Region | Expected Problem | Public Services Affected | Government Advisory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durban | Widespread urban flooding | Water, Electricity | Avoid travel, stock up on essentials |
| East London | Strong coastal winds, road damage | Transportation, Emergency Access | Stay updated on official weather alerts |
| Johannesburg | High winds, falling trees | Electricity, Emergency Services | Report damages immediately |
| Pretoria | Power cuts, scattered storms | Power, Public Transport | Avoid unnecessary commutes |
| Bloemfontein | Fog, heavy rains | Road Traffic, Clinics | Drive cautiously, emergency routes open |
| Nelspruit | Flash floods, erosion | Health, Road Services | Relocate if in high-risk zone |
| Polokwane | Milder effects, scattered rainfall | Minimal | Remain alert and monitor local alerts |
Upcoming Week Outlook: Lingering Storm Effects
Even after the main storm cell passes, residual rainfall and occasional storms are expected in parts of Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and Eastern Cape. Cold fronts may follow, bringing winter-like temperatures earlier than usual.
Next Week’s Weather Expectations:
- May 26-28 : Isolated showers, cooler days.
- May 29-30 : Early morning fog and travel disruptions.
- Weekend Outlook : Mostly dry, with cloud cover.
Are Schools and Businesses Expected to Close?
As of now, no nationwide closure has been declared. However, individual municipalities may enforce temporary shutdowns of schools, clinics, or offices in high-risk zones. Stay informed through local school boards or official government communication platforms.
Additional Advisory for At-Risk Groups
- Elderly and chronically ill individuals should avoid exposure.
- Farmers are advised to safeguard livestock and store animal feed.
- Informal settlements at flood risk may be evacuated if necessary.
As South Africa prepares to face a week of extreme and potentially dangerous weather, residents must remain proactive and cautious. Authorities have taken steps to mitigate risk, but personal responsibility and preparedness are critical. Whether you’re in the direct path of the storm or on the outskirts, stay informed, stay safe, and follow all official instructions during this red alert period.
Departmental Contact Information for Assistance
| Department/Agency | Contact Number | Services Offered |
|---|---|---|
| South African Weather Service | 082 162 | Latest storm warnings and radar updates |
| Eskom | 0860 037 566 | Power outage reports and resolution timelines |
| Disaster Management Centre | 0800 111 990 | Evacuation, emergency shelter info |
| Department of Water Affairs | 012 336 7500 | Reports on water contamination or flooding |
| SANRAL | 0800 726 725 | Road closures, detour assistance |
| Local Municipal Helpline | Refer to local sites | Regional emergency updates and contact info |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the difference between Level 6 and Level 9 alerts?
A. Level 6 is a high alert for dangerous conditions like floods and hail, while Level 9 is a critical warning indicating life-threatening events such as flash flooding and structural damage.
Q2. How can I stay updated during the storm?
A. Subscribe to SAWS SMS alerts, follow official Twitter and Facebook pages, and tune in to local news radio stations.
Q3. Can I get help if my house is damaged?
A. Yes, contact the Disaster Management Centre or your municipality for emergency relief. Insurance claims should be filed with photos as soon as it is safe.
Q4. Will public transport be affected?
A. Yes, especially in major cities. Expect delays or cancellations due to road flooding or power outages.
Q5. Should I evacuate my home?
A. Only if instructed by emergency authorities. Avoid panic and wait for official guidance.