Monday weather: Heat and thunderstorms forecast as special voting gets under way

South Africans can anticipate a mix of warm to extremely hot weather and sporadic rain showers and thunderstorms on Monday, November 2, as special voting commences for the 2026 Local Government Elections. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) predicts conditions akin to those forecast for Sunday will continue into Monday and Tuesday, with occasional showers and thunderstorms possible in various parts of the country.

Certain areas of the Northern Cape, North West, Limpopo, and the Lowveld of Mpumalanga are anticipated to face scorching temperatures. A heatwave advisory is projected to remain active until Monday in certain sections of the Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and northern Gauteng, where sustained high temperatures are anticipated.

As approved special voters head to the polls on Monday and Tuesday, in advance of the official election day on Wednesday, November 4, SAWS has cautioned voters and election officials to take the fluctuating weather into consideration when arranging their activities. "Voters are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly, particularly in regions where afternoon thunderstorms are anticipated," stated the weather service.

The general public has been advised to remain hydrated, take measures against extended exposure to heat, carry umbrellas or raincoats in the event of showers, and allocate additional time for travel. Drivers should exercise caution on wet roads, especially where thunderstorms could hinder visibility. SAWS will persist in monitoring conditions and issuing severe weather warnings and advisories as needed.