The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that the approaching cold front will be accompanied by a sharp drop in temperatures, with several provinces expected to experience below-freezing conditions on Saturday, July 4.
According to the latest forecast issued by SAWS, the coldest conditions are expected in the Free State, Northern Cape and North West, where minimum temperatures are forecast to fall as low as -4°C in Bloemfontein and Kimberley, while Vryburg is also expected to reach -4°C.
Bethlehem is forecast to record -3°C, with Potchefstroom dropping to -3°C and Klerksdorp, Upington and Sutherland expected to reach -2°C.
In Gauteng, residents should prepare for chilly morning temperatures, with Pretoria expected to record a minimum of 4°C and a maximum of 19°C, Johannesburg 3°C to 18°C, and Vereeniging 2°C to 17°C.
Mpumalanga will also experience cold mornings, with Ermelo and Standerton expected to reach 0°C, while Emalahleni is forecast to record 2°C. Warmer conditions are expected in the Lowveld, where Skukuza could reach a high of 26°C.
Along the coast, temperatures will remain milder despite the rough sea conditions. Durban is expected to range between 11°C and 22°C, while Richard’s Bay is forecast to reach 24°C. Cape Town is expected to record temperatures between 11°C and 18°C, with George reaching a high of 19°C.
SAWS has urged the public to remain alert to changing weather conditions, particularly in areas affected by strong winds, heavy seas and freezing overnight temperatures.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution on the roads, while farmers and vulnerable communities are encouraged to take the necessary measures to protect livestock, crops and property as the winter cold front moves across the country.
