SAWS warns of scorching heat and thunderstorms as South Africans head to the polls
The South African Weather Service has warned voters to brace for scorching temperatures and scattered thunderstorms during special voting on November 2 and 3 and the Local Government Elections on November 4.
As South Africans prepare to vote in the 2026 Local Government Elections, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning regarding scorching temperatures, scattered thunderstorms, and potential travel disruptions. The elections will be held on Wednesday, November 4, with special voting periods on Monday and Tuesday, November 2 and 3.
According to a forecast released on Friday, October 30, warm to very hot conditions will affect several parts of the country during the special voting period. Isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected across most areas, while scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast over parts of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga. Similar weather conditions are anticipated to persist on Monday and Tuesday, November 2 and 3.
On election day, Wednesday, November 4, contrasting weather conditions are expected. Central and western South Africa can expect fine and warm to very hot temperatures, while eastern parts may experience partly cloudy and cooler conditions with morning drizzle along the eastern Drakensberg and isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms in the eastern regions.
Traveling during this period could be challenging, particularly in areas affected by rain. SAWS advises voters, election officials, and the public to remain vigilant about changing weather conditions and take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated in high temperatures and using umbrellas or raincoats during thunderstorms. It is also recommended to allow extra travel time and exercise caution on wet roads, especially in low visibility situations.
The South African Weather Service emphasizes that South Africa's spring weather remains unpredictable, with conditions capable of changing rapidly. The developing El Niño weather pattern is expected to influence seasonal conditions, potentially leading to below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures. However, showers and thunderstorms may still occur in some areas.
SAWS will continue to monitor weather developments throughout the voting period and issue severe weather warnings and advisories as needed. The public is encouraged to follow official SAWS communication platforms for updated forecasts during this critical election period.
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