Thunderstorms and flood warnings: A Stormy Wednesday ahead for parts of South Africa

Scattered thunderstorms and isolated showers are expected across northeastern South Africa.

Scattered thunderstorms and isolated showers are expected across northeastern South Africa.

Published Mar 18, 2025

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South Africans should brace for a stormy and wet Wednesday as scattered thunderstorms and disruptive rainfall are expected in parts of the country.

According to the latest forecast from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), several regions will see a 60% chance of rain, with isolated thunderstorms and flooding risks in some areas.

The worst of the weather will hit parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, where a Yellow Level 1 warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms.

Residents in these regions should prepare for heavy downpours, localized flooding, strong winds, excessive lightning, and even hail.

Further west, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Klerksdorp will see scattered showers, with a 60% chance of rainfall. While these storms may not be as severe as those in the east, there is still a risk of difficult driving conditions due to reduced visibility and slick roads.

Isolated showers, with a 30% chance of rain, will affect parts of Limpopo, North West, and the eastern Free State. Although rainfall in these regions is expected to be lighter, brief thunderstorms could still occur in the afternoon and evening.

Heavy downpours, strong winds, excessive lightning, and localized flooding could impact KwaZulu-Natal. 

The rest of the country will remain mostly dry, with the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and large portions of the Free State experiencing stable weather conditions.

However, residents of Springbok and surrounding areas in the western parts of the country should prepare for isolated showers, with a 30% chance of rainfall.

With the risk of local flooding on roads, bridges, and low-lying areas, motorists are urged to drive carefully and avoid waterlogged areas.

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