Government urges public to take precautions on the expected cold front

Government urges members of the public to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions as a cold front is expected to bring very cold, wet and windy conditions to parts of the country from Sunday (9 August).

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has advised that a cold front is expected to make landfall over the Western and Northern Cape, bringing cold to very cold, wet and windy conditions, rough seas and snowfall over mountainous areas. The system is expected to move eastwards, with these conditions spreading to the Eastern Cape and further inland. Snow is expected over mountainous areas of the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, while there is a lower probability of light snow over some other higher-lying areas.

The expected conditions may result in localised flooding, damaging winds, rough seas, very cold conditions and snowfall over mountainous areas, with potential impacts on communities, infrastructure and travel. Farmers are urged to take appropriate measures to protect livestock from the cold, including ensuring that animals have access to safe, sheltered and adequately protected areas.

Government, through the relevant authorities, is monitoring the developing weather system and calls on communities, motorists, farmers and other members of the public to remain informed and take appropriate precautions.

Members of the public are urged to:

Monitor the latest SAWS weather forecasts and warnings and follow guidance issued by disaster management authorities.
Plan journeys carefully and check weather and road conditions before travelling, particularly in areas where heavy rain, snow or strong winds are expected.
Exercise extra caution when driving in adverse weather conditions, reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance and use headlights where visibility is poor.
Never attempt to cross flooded roads, bridges or fast-flowing water, either on foot or in a vehicle. Turn around and seek a safer alternative route.
Exercise particular caution when travelling through mountainous areas and mountain passes, where snowfall may result in slippery roads, hazardous driving conditions, road closures and travel disruptions.
Communities living in low-lying and flood-prone areas should remain alert to rising water levels
Secure loose objects, equipment and structures around homes and properties that could be displaced or damaged by strong winds.
Ensure that children, older persons, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable members of communities are adequately protected from the cold.

Government further calls on the public to rely on official and verified information from government, bona fide media and SAWS. The South African Weather Services provides regular updates via mainstream media and social media. You can also access more information on their website: https://www.weathersa.co.za/ . Avoid sharing unverified weather reports that may cause confusion or unnecessary concern.

Members of the public are urged to remain alert, plan ahead and prioritise safety.

Media enquiries:

Nomonde Mnukwa
Acting Government Spokesperson
Cell: 083 653 7485

William Baloyi

Deputy Government Spokesperson

Cell: 083 390 7147

#GovZAUpdates

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