Gauteng Grips the Chill as Cold Front Lingers Through Wednesday

Winter Bites: Gauteng Residents Urged to Brace for More Cold until Wednesday

If you’ve been layering up and clutching your hot water bottle a little tighter than usual, you’re not alone. Gauteng’s winter chill has arrived with full force, and it’s sticking around for at least another day.

According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the current cold front sweeping through the province will only ease by Wednesday, after days of icy rain, slippery roads, and bone-deep shivers. A soggy, slippery start to the week

Forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela from SAWS says that Gauteng is experiencing up to 80% rain coverage, with temperatures expected to remain firmly on the frosty side through Tuesday. By Wednesday, we should start seeing a return to “normal winter cold” — still chilly, but not quite the teeth-chattering kind we’re enduring now.

But it’s not just rain on the radar, SAWS has also warned of possible localised flooding and snowfall in certain high-altitude parts of the country.

Heaters On But Safety First

Over in Ekurhuleni, disaster officials are staying alert as heating devices get fired up across households. With winter fires a real danger during this time, the City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) is urging residents to be cautious.

“We’re seeing a higher risk of structural fires as people turn to heaters, stoves, and other warming methods,” says DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi. “Our Winter Awareness Campaign is ongoing, but it takes a collective effort to keep our communities safe.”

Drive like your life depends on it Because it Does

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has also issued a stern reminder to motorists braving the rain-soaked roads.

“Rain doesn’t just reduce visibility, it makes the roads treacherous,” says JMPD’s Xolani Fihla. “Slow down, keep a safe following distance, and switch on your headlights even during the day. We’re seeing far too many avoidable accidents when the weather turns.”

Snowfall and Shutdowns: What’s Happening Outside Gauteng

While Gautengers are dealing with relentless rain and icy mornings, parts of the Eastern Cape are waking up to snowfall. Authorities have confirmed snow on the Wapadsberg Pass between Nxuba and Graaff-Reinet. While the pass is still open, motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel.

In another incident, the N6 between Komani and Cathcart had to be temporarily closed due to a truck crash and hazardous chemical spill, further complicated by slick, snowy roads.

“We’re watching the situation closely,” said Unathi Binqose from the Provincial Department of Transport. “If the snow worsens or safety becomes an issue, we won’t hesitate to close affected roads. Safety comes first.”

Joburg, Stay Warm and Stay Safe

As Joburg and surrounding areas soldier through this icy snap, the key message from emergency services remains the same: keep warm, drive carefully, and avoid fire hazards at home.

And while we wait for those slightly friendlier winter temperatures to return, maybe keep that hot chocolate and extra blanket within reach, you’re going to need it.

{Source: Sabc News}

Read more: How Weather Patters are Changing Guateng’s Water Supply in 2025

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