Weather Alert: Joburg residents warned to brace for severe thunderstorms

Johannesburg's residents have been advised to take extra precautions due to intensifying severe weather conditions in Gauteng. Tuesday's storms may bring hail, localized flooding, property damage, and hazardous road conditions, particularly where heavy rain falls rapidly. Gauteng Weather has warned that the most intense thunderstorms could produce torrential rain, gusty winds, hail, and frequent lightning.

Authorities have requested residents to refrain from crossing flooded roads and bridges, and to find shelter during thunderstorms. Drivers are advised to slow down, drive cautiously, keep headlights on, and maintain safe distances from other vehicles. Emergency services are prepared for any potential issues arising from the adverse weather.

The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued a yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and intense lightning in Gauteng, North West, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Free State, and the Northern Cape. The storms could lead to localized flooding of roads, low-lying areas, and bridges, as well as damage to settlements and infrastructure.

While the storms may be brief, South Africa is anticipating one of the strongest El Niño events ever recorded, with scientists warning of extremely high temperatures, below-average rainfall, and serious threats to agriculture, public health, and disaster management. Saws convened a media conference on Friday to discuss the latest El Niño forecast and gather input from those in weather-sensitive sectors on preparation plans for the 2026/27 El Niño events.

The impact of El Niño varies across Africa, with Southern Africa likely to experience drought and extreme heat, while East Africa may face heavy rainfall and flooding.