Gauteng braces for thunderstorms and a cooler weekend, SAWS warns

Gauteng residents should prepare for a marked change in conditions this weekend as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warns a cut-off low-pressure system will bring thunderstorms, rain and cooler temperatures from Friday through Sunday.

What to expect this weekend

SAWS says the developing cut-off low over the western interior is expected to move eastwards and will cause a significant shift in weather across several provinces. Scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers, accompanied by windy conditions, are expected from Friday through Sunday in parts of the Free State, Gauteng, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, and the eastern parts of the North West.

Johannesburg outlook

For Johannesburg specifically, there is a 60% chance of thunderstorms on Friday, with daytime temperatures expected to reach around 21°C. Temperatures are forecast to fall over the weekend, with highs dropping into the high teens on Saturday and Sunday, while rain and cool conditions are expected across the province.

Wider impacts and timing

The cut-off low is already linked to cold, wet and windy weather in other regions. SAWS has warned rainfall in parts of the Western Cape could become disruptive, with the potential for localised flooding in the south-eastern parts of that province. In Gauteng and the surrounding areas, thunderstorms are most likely on Friday afternoon and evening, with continued afternoon showers expected over Saturday and Sunday.

Advice to residents

SAWS-related guidance in the report stresses the need for people to be alert to rapid weather changes as the system moves across the country. Residents are advised to follow official SAWS updates and media releases for the latest warnings and timing.

Looking beyond the weekend, SAWS notes that no thunderstorms are expected in Gauteng next week, although temperatures are likely to remain cool to warm.