SAWS issues severe weather warning for cold, wet and windy on Thursday

The SAWS has issued a series of warnings for Thursday, 31 July, as cold, wet, and windy weather is expected to impact multiple provinces.

Jul 30, 2025 - 20:00
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SAWS issues severe weather warning for cold, wet and windy on Thursday

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a series of warnings for Thursday, 31 July, as cold, wet, and windy weather is expected to impact multiple provinces, including the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Western Cape and Northern Cape: Cold, wet, windy

A high-pressure system ridging behind a cold front will bring:

  • Very cold to wet and windy conditions in:
    • Cape Winelands
    • Central Karoo
    • Little Karoo
    • Namakwa District (Northern Cape)

Residents are urged to take extra care of livestock and pets, and ensure adequate shelter from freezing temperatures.

Damaging winds and high waves: Coastal alert

Western Cape coast (Thursday – Friday):

  • Waves: 4-6 metres
  • Wave period: 10-13 seconds
  • Areas affected: From Saldanha Bay to Cape Agulhas in the morning, spreading to Plettenberg Bay and Alexander Bay later in the day
  • Wind speeds: 40-60km/h along southern and southwestern coastlines

KwaZulu-Natal coast (Thursday – Friday):

  • Winds: Strong southerly to south-westerly winds
  • Speed: 25-35 knots, gusting up to 40 knots
  • Affected areas: Port Edward to Mtunzini Thursday night, spreading to Kosi Bay by Friday

Impact risks:

  • Navigation hazards for small vessels
  • Increased risk of capsising
  • Localised disruption to harbour/port activities
  • Beachfront disruptions expected

Eastern Cape: Disruptive snow and coastal danger

Interior (Thursday)

  • Light snow expected on high ground
  • Road icing likely due to sub-zero temperatures
  • Risk of traffic disruption at night

East coast (Thursday – Friday):

  • Gale-force W/SW winds
  • Wave height: 4.5m to 6.5 metres, persisting for more than 24 hours
  • Possible impact: Dangerous seas, port disruptions, beach closures, and threats to small boats

SAWS safety advice

  • Avoid travel in snow-prone or high-wind areas where possible
  • Use heating devices safely – never leave open flames unattended
  • Secure outdoor items that may become hazardous in strong winds
  • Mariners and beachfront operators should monitor updates and avoid unnecessary operations

Are you affected by this latest SAWS weather warning?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1

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