Thursday weather: Bitter cold and strong winds continue across SA

South Africans can anticipate a cold to extremely cold Thursday, with cloudy and windy conditions expected to cover much of the nation. According to the South African Weather Service, cloudy and cold to very cold weather will continue across central and eastern areas, while scattered rain and showers are anticipated along parts of the eastern coastline and surrounding interior.

A Yellow Level 2 alert for damaging interior winds has been issued for sections of the Western and Northern Cape, where powerful winds could result in localized destruction to communities and temporary structures, as well as diminished visibility due to dust storms. There is a 30% probability of rain for parts of Mpumalanga, northern KwaZulu-Natal, and coastal regions, including neighborhoods around Richards Bay, Durban, and Port Shepstone.

The majority of the country is anticipated to remain predominantly dry, with no substantial precipitation forecasted for the central and western interior. The most intense winds are expected in the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the northern West Coast and Witzenberg regions of the Western Cape. Authorities in affected areas have advised residents to secure any loose items and exercise caution while traveling, especially in regions where dust may impede visibility.