South Africans have been asked to reconsider their weekend plans, as a potent cold front glides into the country beginning on Friday evening. This, many would say, is an early-spring set-up for dropping temperatures and heavy downpours with winds abating, mainly on coastal regions and mountainous terrain. The South African Weather Services have issued warnings for several provinces.
What The Incoming System Is Going To DO
Temperature: Most places will witness a sudden fall of 5–10 °C, beginning along South Africa’s southern coastline and spreading inland.
- Rainfall: Coastal areas may be lashed with 30–50 mm of rain within a span of 48 hours, whereas isolated places may receive as much as 80 mm.
- Wind: Strong winds about 60-70 km/h will be experienced in exposed coastal and mountainous areas, making the situation conducive for flying debris.
Significance Of This Cold Front
Being a rare occurrence that winter atmospheric intensity has manifested in this very month of September, the system stands very special. Scientists have been speculating for a while now on weather pattern shifting caused due to climate change on a broader scale. With rainfall occurring on dry grounds, very likely flash floods would create havoc either on urban cities where drainage systems are very limited or in vulnerable communities, rural, and livestock areas.
Some Preparation & Safety Measures
To save lives and property, these actions are recommended:
- Secure property: Fasten outdoor items and clear gutters to handle heavy rainfall.
- Devices should be charged in anticipation of power outages.
- Emergency supplies should be prepared: Ensure to have batteries for your flashlights, long-lasting food, and warm clothes.
- If valuables are in flood-prone areas, move them on higher ground.
- Watch your roads: Visibility is down; hence, avoid unnecessary travel, mostly on coastal or mountain areas.
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