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Joburg Braces for Bitter Cold as EMS Gears Up for Winter Emergencies

Published

3 months ago

June 5, 2025

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Sourced: The South African

A biting cold front is barreling toward Gauteng, and Johannesburg’s emergency teams are standing ready, just in case things turn frosty.

Winter has officially clocked in, and it’s not easing in gently. As Joburgers scramble to haul out their electric blankets and stock up on firewood, a powerful cold snap is on the cards for early next week. Monday, 9 June, is shaping up to be the chilliest day yet, with temperatures forecast to plummet below 20°C and possibly much lower overnight.

Icy Expectations, But No Confirmed Snowfall for Gauteng

Although excitement briefly flared over the possibility of snow in Johannesburg, forecasts have since been adjusted. Vox Weather says the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) has pulled back on snow predictions for Gauteng.

“We’re not ruling out the chance of some ice rain or a few light flurries,” Vox Weather shared, dashing hopes for a true winter wonderland in the city.

Gauteng Weather also chimed in on X (formerly Twitter), warning of a “powerful cold snap” on the horizon. So while Joburg might not be dusted in white, it will be bitterly cold, and that brings its own challenges.

EMS Ready to Respond as Temperatures Tumble

Robert Mulaudzi, spokesperson for Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS), says their teams are monitoring the situation across all seven regions of the city, especially in informal settlements where residents are more vulnerable to harsh weather.

“It’s extremely cold in most parts of Johannesburg,” Mulaudzi said. “We’re urging residents to be very careful when using heating devices like paraffin stoves, braziers, or heaters. Do not leave them unattended.”

The warning is not without reason. Each winter, informal settlements face increased risks of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning due to the unsafe use of heaters and open flames indoors.

Social Media Fires Up with Weather Jokes and Concerns

As usual, South Africans took to social media with their signature humour, joking about “Joburg’s annual Game of Thrones audition” and the “Hunger Games for the last working heater in Checkers.”

But underneath the humour lies genuine concern, especially for those without access to proper housing or heating. Calls for donations of blankets and warm clothing have begun circulating on community WhatsApp groups and local Facebook forums.

Elsewhere in SA: Serious Snowfall Could Be Life-Threatening

While Gauteng may escape the snow, the Eastern Cape and Lesotho aren’t as lucky. Vox Weather is warning of potentially life-threatening snowfall in the Southern Drakensberg, with towns like Barkly East and Lady Grey expecting up to 50cm of snow and even higher amounts over nearby mountain passes.

In the Nuweveld Mountains near Beaufort West, up to 40cm could accumulate over just two days.

“Do not attempt a snow chase,” Vox Weather cautioned. “Mountain passes may close, and road conditions could become deadly.”

These types of systems known as “cut-off lows” are notoriously unpredictable. Forecasts can shift rapidly, so authorities are urging the public to stay updated and avoid unnecessary travel in high-risk areas.

The Bigger Picture: Cold Weather and Inequality

While wintry weather might seem like a novelty for some, it underscores ongoing issues of inequality for others. In a city where large segments of the population live in informal housing with limited insulation, winter is a dangerous time ,not just an inconvenience.

The City of Johannesburg, to its credit, has taken a proactive approach this year. EMS teams are already checking on vulnerable communities, and shelters have been urged to prepare for higher numbers of people seeking warmth.

Stay Safe, Stay Warm

As the mercury drops, the message from EMS and weather services is clear: stay safe, don’t take risks, and keep an eye on your neighbours ,especially the elderly, children, and those without reliable heating.

Joburg might not see snowflakes this time around, but the chill is real. And in a city known for its summer storms and sunny skies, it’s a timely reminder that winter in South Africa can be just as dramatic.