South Africa continues to experience cold and unsettled weather on Wednesday, 11 June 2025. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued several weather warnings and updates covering all provinces. This article provides a detailed overview of the current weather conditions, warnings, and expected impacts across the country.
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Nationwide Cold and Frosty Conditions
A strong cut-off low-pressure system that recently affected South Africa is moving away. Despite this, cold conditions persist with widespread frost expected in many areas, especially in the interior regions. Morning temperatures are near or below freezing in several provinces, with frost likely to affect vulnerable crops and plants.
Coastal Warnings: Damaging Waves and Winds
Eastern Cape Coast
An Orange Level 6 Warning is in effect for damaging waves along the coast between East London and Port Edward. These waves pose a risk to coastal infrastructure and medium-sized vessels may drag their anchors in these rough seas.
KwaZulu-Natal Coast
KwaZulu-Natal faces a Yellow Level 4 Warning for damaging winds and waves. Small harbours and ports may experience localised disruptions, with small vessels at risk of capsizing due to steep waves and strong winds. Authorities may temporarily suspend beachfront activities such as swimming and shore angling for safety reasons.
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Provincial Weather Updates
Gauteng
Forecasters expect frosty mornings, with minimum temperatures dropping to 2°C in Johannesburg and -1°C in Vereeniging. Daytime highs will remain cool, ranging from 15°C to 17°C.
Eastern Cape
The eastern half of the province will be cold to very cold, with cloudy skies clearing from the west. Light rain is possible along the coast in the morning. Winds will be fresh to strong westerly along the coast, moderating by evening.
KwaZulu-Natal
Partly cloudy skies dominate, with cold to cool temperatures. The extreme south-western parts will experience very cold conditions. Coastal winds will be moderate to fresh westerly to south-westerly, reaching strong gusts.
Mpumalanga and Limpopo
Cold mornings with temperatures near freezing in some areas, such as Ermelo and Standerton. Daytime temperatures will be mild, reaching up to 24°C in Skukuza and 23°C in Phalaborwa.
North West and Free State
Frost is likely in the Free State with lows around 0°C to 1°C. Daytime temperatures will be cool, not exceeding 17°C in most towns.
Northern Cape
Forecasters expect morning fog and frost, particularly in areas like Sutherland (-3°C) and Calvinia (5°C). Northeasterly winds will blow fresh to strong, causing a burke wind effect along the western coast.
Western Cape
Forecasters expect foggy starts in the northwest, with a possibility of frost. Daytime temperatures will remain cool, with Cape Town reaching a maximum of 17°C.
Weather Hazards to Note
- Frost: Widespread frost is expected over interior provinces, potentially damaging crops and plants. Residents should take precautions to protect vulnerable vegetation.
- Windy Conditions: Strong south-westerly winds will persist along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, contributing to hazardous marine conditions and possible disruptions to coastal activities.
- Damaging Waves: Coastal infrastructure between East London and Port Edward is at risk from damaging waves. Mariners and coastal residents should exercise caution.
- Fog: Early morning fog patches are likely in parts of the Northern Cape, Western Cape, and Free State, which may reduce visibility on roads.
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No Fire Danger Warnings
SAWS has not issued any fire danger warnings for any province at the moment, offering some relief amid the cold and windy conditions.
Looking Ahead: Weather for the Next Few Days
- Light showers may continue along parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal coasts.
- Temperatures will remain cold inland, with frost persisting overnight.
- Winds along the east coast are expected to gradually ease as the cut-off low moves away.
Safety Recommendations
- Drivers should exercise caution during early mornings due to fog and frost on roads.
- Coastal residents and small vessel operators should heed marine warnings and avoid unnecessary sea travel.
- Farmers and gardeners should protect sensitive crops from frost damage.
- Stay updated with official SAWS warnings for any changes in weather conditions.
This weather update is based on the latest information from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and Snow News and Snow Report. For continuous updates, visit the official SAWS X/Twitter page.
