The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued several severe weather warnings affecting the Western and Northern Cape provinces on Friday, 20 June 2025. Residents and travellers should prepare for damaging coastal waves, strong winds, and intensifying cold conditions over the coming days. This article provides a detailed update on the weather threats and safety advisories for the region.
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Damaging Coastal Waves and Strong Winds Along the Coast
A yellow level 2 warning is in effect for damaging waves along the coastline stretching from Saldanha Bay in the Western Cape to East London in the Eastern Cape. These waves are expected to cause difficulties for small vessels, including risks of taking on water and capsizing. Beachfront activities may also face localised disruption due to rough seas.
Additionally, a yellow level 1 warning has been issued for damaging winds between Plettenberg Bay and East London, as well as over the Kouga and Nelson Mandela Bay municipalities in the Eastern Cape. These strong winds may cause localised damage to formal and informal settlements and complicate navigation at sea.
Residents along these coastal areas should exercise caution, especially small boat operators and those engaging in water-based activities. It is advisable to avoid unnecessary travel near the coast during periods of peak wave activity.
Intensifying Cold Conditions in the Interior
Very cold conditions are forecast for the interior regions of the Western Cape and the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape. Daytime maximum temperatures will remain at or below 10°C until Friday, 20 June. This cold snap is part of a cold front moving over the south-western Cape, bringing isolated to scattered light showers.
The cold weather may increase the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related health issues, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and homeless. Residents are advised to dress warmly and ensure adequate heating indoors.
Provincial Weather Summaries for 20 June 2025
Gauteng
Gauteng will experience fine, cool weather with daytime highs around 21–23°C. The UVB sunburn index is high, so residents should take precautions against prolonged sun exposure despite the cool temperatures.
Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga will see fine and cool conditions overall. However, the Lowveld and Escarpment areas will be warmer, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C in places like Mbombela.
Limpopo
Limpopo will enjoy fine weather, ranging from cool to warm. Daytime temperatures will be between 23°C and 31°C depending on the area, with Polokwane cooler and Phalaborwa warmer.
North West
The North West province can expect fine and cool weather, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 24°C. No severe weather warnings are in place for this region.
Free State
Free State residents will face fine but windy conditions, with cold to cool temperatures. Daytime highs will range between 15°C and 19°C. The wind may increase the chill factor.
Northern Cape (Outside Namakwa District)
Apart from the Namakwa District’s cold conditions, the rest of the Northern Cape will be mostly fine and cold to cool. Windy conditions are expected in the extreme southeast. Cloud cover will be more prominent in the south and southwest.
Western Cape (Outside Interior)
The Western Cape coastal areas will be partly cloudy in the northeast, while the southwest will experience cloudy, cold weather with light rain spreading along the south coast by evening. The cold front will bring isolated showers.
Eastern Cape
The western half of the Eastern Cape will have fine, cool to cold weather, becoming partly cloudy in the south by afternoon. Coastal areas will be cloudy with isolated showers and rain. The eastern half will remain fine and cool to cold throughout the day.
KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal will see partly cloudy conditions in the south until mid-morning, then fine weather with cool to warm temperatures. The southwest will be colder. The UVB sunburn index is very high, so sun protection is recommended.
Rain and Snow Risks
While the primary focus is on cold and windy conditions, some light showers are expected in parts of the Western Cape due to the cold front. There is no current severe snow warning; however, previous warnings for disruptive snow and rain earlier in June have heightened awareness of winter weather risks in the region.
Drivers should remain vigilant on wet and potentially slippery roads, especially in mountainous areas where temperatures can drop further.
Fire Danger Status
Currently, there are no extreme fire danger warnings issued for the Western or Northern Cape. However, the Northern Cape and parts of the Free State and North West provinces continue to experience extreme fire danger conditions. Residents in those areas should remain alert and follow fire safety protocols.
Summary of Weather Advisories for 20 June 2025
| Province | Weather Warning | Expected Impact | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Cape | Yellow Level 2 Damaging Waves | Rough seas, small vessels at risk, beach disruption | Until Saturday morning (21 June) |
| Western Cape | Very Cold Conditions | Daytime temps ≤ 10°C, isolated light showers | Until Friday (20 June) |
| Northern Cape | Very Cold Conditions | Daytime temps ≤ 10°C | Until Friday (20 June) |
| Eastern Cape | Yellow Level 1 Damaging Winds | Localised damage, navigation difficulties | Until Saturday morning (21 June) |
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid small boat travel along the affected coastal areas until conditions improve.
- Stay indoors during periods of strong winds and cold temperatures.
- Dress in layers and prepare homes for cold weather.
- Monitor official SAWS updates for any changes in warnings.
- Exercise caution when driving in wet or foggy conditions.
Stay Updated
The South African Weather Service continues to monitor evolving weather patterns and will update warnings as necessary. For real-time weather information and alerts, visit the official SAWS website or follow their social media channels.
This severe weather alert highlights the need for vigilance across the Western and Northern Cape provinces. Damaging waves, strong winds, and intensifying cold pose risks to safety and daily activities. By staying informed and prepared, residents can mitigate potential impacts during this challenging weather period.
