Snow falls in Johannesburg as Gauteng freezes under rare cut‑off low
A rare cut off low weather system brought icy rain, bitter cold and flurries of snow to Johannesburg in Gauteng.
Snow fell in Johannesburg and parts of Gauteng, South Africa, as a rare cut-off low weather system brought icy rain, bitter cold and snow to the region. The Gauteng Weather Bureau warned that harsh conditions would persist throughout the week. A cold front contributed to the development of the low pressure system, which became stationary over the interior.
The mercury in Johannesburg hovered at 1°C, rising to a maximum of 18°C on Friday, while Pretoria experienced slightly warmer temperatures of 3°C and a high of 20°C on the same day.
Climatologist Professor Jennifer Fitchett of Wits University explained that while snow in Johannesburg is rare, it is not unprecedented due to the city's elevated terrain, which can occasionally experience freezing temperatures under the right weather conditions. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) cautioned motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads due to damp, slick surfaces resulting from ongoing overcast weather and persistent showers.
Wet roads significantly diminish tire grip, increase stopping distances, and elevate the risk of skidding or hydroplaning. Drivers were urged to adhere to essential wet-weather driving guidelines, such as reducing speed, increasing following distance, switching on low beams, driving smoothly, avoiding standing water, and remaining vigilant for pedestrians.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla emphasized the shared responsibility of safety and appealed to every motorist to take extra personal care, leave earlier for their destinations, and ensure road safety.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
