Weather Alert: Dangerous Waves and Drop in Temperatures

South Africa faces a significant weather event on Thursday, 22 May 2025. A Weather Alert has been issued as a cold front brings a sharp drop in temperatures inland. There is also a yellow level 2 warning for damaging coastal waves from Cape Agulhas to Kosi Bay. Emergency services and residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions both at sea and on land.

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Coastal Warning: Damaging Waves and Rough Seas

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for damaging waves along the eastern and southern coastline. These waves are expected to cause difficulty in navigation at sea. There may be localised disruption of harbours and ports. Interruptions to beachfront activities are also expected according to the Weather Alert issued by SAWS. Mariners, small vessel operators, and coastal residents should exercise extreme caution. The rough seas are a result of strong south-westerly swells combined with gale-force winds. Thus, making coastal conditions dangerous through Thursday and possibly into the weekend.

Inland: Sharp Temperature Drop and Cold Conditions

Inland provinces, including Gauteng, will experience a marked drop in temperatures. Fine but cold to cool weather will prevail as indicated in the Weather Alert.

• Gauteng residents should prepare for chilly mornings and daytime highs remaining low. Moreover, a high UVB sunburn index despite the cold will necessitate protection against sun exposure.
• Other provinces such as Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, and Free State will also experience cool to cold conditions. Morning fog is possible in some areas like the eastern Free State.
• The Western Cape and parts of the Eastern Cape will see cold to cool weather. There will be isolated showers along the coast and adjacent interior regions.

Safety and Emergency Measures

Emergency services in Gauteng and other provinces are on high alert to respond to incidents related to the cold front and hazardous coastal conditions highlighted in the Weather Alert. Residents are advised to use heating devices safely to avoid fire risks. They should stay indoors during periods of strong winds and rough seas. Coastal communities should avoid risky areas near the shore, especially rocky outcrops where waves could sweep people away.

Motorists traveling through affected regions should be vigilant for slippery roads and reduced visibility due to fog or rain. The public is encouraged to stay updated through official channels and heed warnings issued by SAWS and local authorities.

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Summary

• Coastline: Yellow level 2 warning for damaging waves from Cape Agulhas to Kosi Bay. These waves are causing navigation difficulties and disruptions at ports and beaches.
• Inland: Cold front brings chilly temperatures and cool to cold weather across Gauteng and neighboring provinces.
• Safety: Exercise caution with heating, avoid coastal hazards, and stay informed on weather updates.

Residents and travelers should prepare accordingly and check weather updates regularly to stay safe during this cold front event.