Update:
As two cold fronts – with cold, wet and windy conditions – make their way through the Western Cape, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued two more weather warnings for strong winds and damaging waves, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The latest alerts include a Yellow level 2 warning for damaging wind and waves along the Western Cape coastline, as well as a Yellow level 1 warning for damaging winds affecting parts of both the Western and Northern Cape.
According to SAWS, the first cold front is expected to make landfall on Friday, while another is expected to make landfall on Sunday, both bringing strong to near gale-force winds of 50 to 65kph with gusts reaching up to 75kph.
The level 2 warning, valid from Saturday night through to Monday, highlights very rough seas and wave heights of between 4m and 5m along the coastline between Cape Columbine and Plettenberg Bay.
These conditions are expected to make navigation at sea difficult, with small vessels and personal watercraft at risk of taking on water or capsizing.
Beachgoers and anglers have also been cautioned, with SAWS warning that large waves could sweep people off low-lying coastal rocks, while disruptions to beachfront activities and small harbours are likely.
Meanwhile, the level 1 warning, valid on Sunday, points to north-westerly winds affecting areas including the Cape Winelands and Central Karoo, as well as Kamiesberg, Hantam and Karoo Hoogland municipalities.
These winds could lead to localised damage to temporary structures and settlements, while also posing risks to high-sided vehicles on exposed routes. Travel disruptions and longer journey times are also possible.
Residents across affected regions have been urged to remain cautious, particularly in coastal and high-risk areas, as conditions are expected to deteriorate over the weekend.
Cold, wet, and windy weather warning issued for the Western Cape
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a stern advisory as the Western Cape braces for a spell of very cold, wet, and windy weather beginning this Friday, 17 April, and projected to last until Monday next week, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Residents can expect a dramatic drop in temperatures, coupled with substantial rainfall and gusty winds that may create precarious conditions across the region.
Two cold fronts are set to sweep across the Western and Northern Cape this weekend, bringing with them good rainfall amounts that could significantly lower daytime temperatures.
Forecasts indicate maximum temperatures could plummet to between 10 and 12℃ in the southern highlands of Namakwa, as well as the Central Karoo and the western parts of the Cape Winelands Districts. Moreover, persistent windy conditions are expected to accompany these cold front invasions.
As these harsh weather conditions approach, the SAWS has warned of wave heights reaching an alarming 4.0 to 5.0 metres along the coastline, especially from Sunday into Monday.
Coupled with a wind chill factor, the actual feel of the temperatures could be even more biting than the measured values, prompting local authorities to urge residents to prepare for potential disruptions to beachfront activities.
How to prepare for the impending cold front
In light of the expected inclement weather, community safety officials suggest that homeowners take pre-emptive measures to protect their properties and ensure their own safety:
- Protect Your Home:
- Inspect roofs for loose sheets, tiles, and potential leaks.
- Clear gutters and stormwater drains to avoid flooding.
- Secure outdoor items such as bins, water tanks, shade nets, and garden furniture.
- Trim any weak tree branches that could fall victim to strong winds.
- Stay Warm & Safe:
- Ensure that heaters, gas stoves, and fireplaces are safe and well-ventilated.
- Never use braziers or open flames indoors to avoid fire risks.
- Keep extra blankets, warm clothing, and dry bedding on hand.
- Travel with Caution:
- Avoid driving through flooded roads or low-lying bridges.
- Coastal users are advised to steer clear of the sea due to dangerous waves and rough conditions.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Picture: Gallo Images / Jaco Marais
