Extreme Weather Hits SA – South Africa is currently facing one of the worst weather events in recent memory. An aggressive cold front, combined with high-pressure systems inland, has triggered widespread thunderstorms, flooding, and power cuts across multiple provinces. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a series of red, orange, and yellow alerts, urging citizens to take immediate action to protect life and property. From Gauteng to the Western Cape, the storm’s impact is being felt on every level, affecting homes, infrastructure, transportation, power, and essential services. This extreme weather event is not only a regional threat but also a national emergency, as several departments and disaster management teams scramble to deal with the escalating situation.
Understanding the Weather System: Why It’s So Severe This Time
The current extreme weather system in South Africa is the result of a rare and dangerous clash between a cold front moving in from the Atlantic Ocean and warm, moisture-rich air inland. This atmospheric collision has created unstable conditions, leading to powerful thunderstorms, strong winds exceeding 90 km/h, and sudden downpours that are causing flash floods. Experts warn that this combination, intensified by broader climate change patterns, has made the storm more severe than anything seen in over a decade.
Meteorologists are calling this event a “compound extreme system”, resulting from multiple climatic factors colliding at once:
- A cold front pushing up from the Atlantic Ocean has met warm, moisture-laden air over inland areas.
- Rapid pressure drops are fueling strong winds that are toppling trees and damaging roofs.
- Cloudbursts and flash floods have been recorded in parts of Johannesburg and the Cape Flats.
- The system is further intensified by climate instability, including unusually warm ocean currents off the Southern Cape.
According to SAWS, these conditions have not been seen in at least 15 years. Urban centers and rural areas alike are expected to suffer prolonged damage.
Regions on Red Alert: Cities and Provinces Most Affected
The Western Cape is on red alert due to severe coastal flooding and strong winds. Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and Free State are under orange alerts, facing storms, hail, and flash floods. KwaZulu-Natal and Northern Cape remain on yellow alert with moderate weather risks. Authorities are on high alert in all affected areas. Major provinces across the country have reported escalating emergency conditions. SAWS has categorized the threat level across regions based on real-time storm behavior and expected impact.
| Province/City | Weather Alert Level | Primary Threats | Power Disruption Risk | Travel & Road Impact | Emergency Response Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria) | Orange Alert | Hail, thunderstorms, floods | High | N1 gridlock, suburban flooding | Severe |
| Western Cape (Cape Town, George) | Red Alert | Coastal flooding, wind over 90 km/h | Very High | Airport shutdowns, road closures | Critical |
| Eastern Cape (Gqeberha, Mthatha) | Orange Alert | Landslides, lightning | Moderate | Damaged rural roads | Severe |
| KwaZulu-Natal (Durban, PMB) | Yellow Alert | High winds, intermittent rain | Low | Port activities slowed | Watch |
| North West Province | Orange Alert | Dry lightning, bush fires | Moderate | Traffic alerts near game reserves | Severe |
| Northern Cape | Yellow Alert | Cold snap, fog | Low | Minor delays on N14 | Moderate |
| Free State | Orange Alert | Thunder and heavy rain | Medium | Rail and highway risk | Severe |
Power Blackouts Worsen as Eskom Battles Storm Damage
Eskom has issued warnings for unscheduled power cuts across several regions, especially in areas where storm damage has affected grid lines and substations. Emergency response teams are working around the clock, but due to heavy winds and dangerous access conditions, repairs are delayed in multiple zones.
Key highlights:
- Cape Town suburbs have already reported rolling blackouts due to substation flooding.
- Johannesburg South and Midrand areas saw pole collapses due to wind gusts.
- KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast is on standby for controlled power trips to protect infrastructure.
Public Advisory from Eskom:
- Fully charge your phones, laptops, and power banks now.
- Disconnect devices during lightning storms.
- Do not touch fallen wires — report immediately to 08600 37566.
Air, Rail, and Road Travel Paralyzed – Full Disruption Report
Travel has come to a near standstill in many areas. Authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary trips and stay updated through real-time traffic advisories and airport announcements.
Severe travel impact zones:
- OR Tambo International Airport: Dozens of delays, with some rerouted flights.
- Cape Town International Airport: Ground handling affected, limited runway use.
- Gautrain: Slower intervals due to voltage irregularities and wet tracks.
- Long-distance buses (Intercape, Greyhound): Delayed or rerouted on high-risk highways.
- Provincial roads in Free State and Eastern Cape: Closed due to flooding and landslides.
Public is advised to:
- Avoid travel on the N1, N3, and R300 during peak hours.
- Tune in to SANRAL alerts and radio bulletins for route updates.
- Use travel alternatives only if absolutely necessary.
Emergency Support and Contact Information
For citizens facing immediate risk or requiring assistance, here are the relevant contact points:
| Department/Agency | Helpline Number | Services Provided |
|---|---|---|
| SA Weather Service (SAWS) | 082 162 | Weather alerts, severe storm forecasts |
| Eskom Fault Reporting | 08600 37566 | Downed lines, power fault logging |
| National Disaster Centre | 080 111 2473 | Shelter coordination, relief deployment |
| Western Cape Emergency Line | 107 (landlines) | Flood rescue, evacuation help |
| SANRAL Road Helpline | 0800 874 874 | Highway blockages, accidents, traffic alerts |
| ER24 / Netcare 911 | 084 124 / 082 911 | Medical and paramedic response |
| Local SAPS Stations | 10111 | Civil safety, traffic control, general emergencies |
Safety Tips: What Every Household Should Do Now
Staying safe during extreme weather involves both preparation and vigilance. Here’s what every South African should do immediately:
- Stay indoors unless evacuation is required.
- Avoid using electrical appliances during storms.
- Prepare a go-bag with essentials: documents, medicines, torch, water, dry food.
- Reinforce windows, roof sheets, and garden structures if possible.
- Keep pets and children inside and away from windows or open balconies.
- Monitor radio stations like SAFM, CapeTalk, and local FM stations for updates.
7-Day Weather Outlook Across Provinces
| Date | Gauteng (JHB) | Western Cape (CT) | Eastern Cape (PE) | KwaZulu-Natal (DBN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 19 (Mon) | Thunderstorms, 60mm rain | 100mm rainfall, wind 90km/h | Landslide warnings | Light rain & gusts |
| May 20 (Tue) | Showers continue | Flash floods possible | Heavy lightning | Cloudy, risk of flooding |
| May 21 (Wed) | Cold, cloudy | Drying up | Intermittent storms | Partly sunny |
| May 22 (Thu) | 15°C max temp | Clear, 21°C | Showers return | Warm, windy |
| May 23 (Fri) | Mostly dry | Mild breeze | Fog in inland areas | 28°C heat returns |
| May 24 (Sat) | Light winds | Fair skies | Stable weather | Hot and humid |
| May 25 (Sun) | Stable | Stable | Stable | Storms expected again |
What Happens After the Storm?
Post-storm recovery is expected to take several weeks depending on the extent of damage:
- Eskom teams will conduct grid inspections before full power restoration.
- SANRAL and municipalities will start infrastructure cleanup and debris removal.
- Disaster Management Units may conduct structural damage assessments for future compensation.
Insurance providers have already set up fast-track claims desks, and municipalities are working on compiling flood impact reports for public release.
FAQs – South Africa’s Storm Emergency 2025
Q1: Is this the worst storm in recent SA history?
A: It is one of the most widespread in a decade, affecting multiple provinces with red alerts simultaneously.
Q2: Will schools remain open?
A: In some regions like Gauteng and Western Cape, schools may be closed temporarily. Check with the Department of Basic Education or local school groups.
Q3: Are there any payments or compensation for flood victims?
A: Affected households may apply for emergency assistance through Disaster Relief Grants coordinated via SASSA and Municipal Social Relief offices.
Q4: Can I claim insurance if my home is flooded?
A: Most property insurance covers natural disasters. Contact your provider and submit photographic evidence immediately.
Q5: Where can I find storm shelter near me?
A: Call the Disaster Management Centre (080 111 2473) or check municipal websites for evacuation site lists.