Weather Alert: Fire Risk in Northern Regions, Warm and Fine Weather

As South Africa reaches the halfway point of spring, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has raised the alarm over record-breaking fire danger levels in the country’s northern regions. Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and North West will enjoy pleasant, warm conditions on Thursday, 18 September 2025—but authorities warn that communities must remain alert as veld fires become a pressing threat.

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Fire danger warnings

SAWS confirmed that the mix of dry air, gusty winds, and warmer temperatures creates ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread rapidly. The northern and northeastern provinces face the highest risk.

“With these weather conditions, even the smallest spark could trigger uncontrollable fires,” a SAWS official cautioned. Residents are urged to avoid lighting open flames, burning waste, or carrying out any activity that might ignite grass or bushfires.

This alert follows several veld fires earlier this month that swept across grazing lands in Limpopo and the Free State, leaving farmers and rural communities counting their losses.

Gauteng forecast

Gauteng will enjoy a fine and warm Thursday under mostly clear skies. But while the weather looks inviting, the UVB sunburn index has climbed to “very high.” Outdoor lovers should use sunscreen, wear hats, and avoid long exposure to direct sunlight between 10 am and 3 pm. Parents are advised to keep children protected, as they are especially vulnerable to sunburn.

Mpumalanga forecast

Mpumalanga will start cloudy, with drizzle and fog patches along the escarpment and Highveld. Conditions will clear into a partly cloudy to fine day, with cool to warm temperatures. The early fog may slow down traffic along mountain passes, but visibility will improve as the morning progresses.

Limpopo forecast

In Limpopo, morning fog will blanket the escarpment before breaking into partly cloudy skies. Most areas will be warm and pleasant, with western towns such as Lephalale and Mokopane heating up towards hot conditions. Farmers should monitor livestock and crops closely, as the added heat and dry ground could worsen grazing stress and fuel veld fires.

North West forecast

The North West province will remain fine and warm throughout the day. While the conditions are ideal for outdoor plans, residents are reminded that veld fires can ignite quickly where grass is dry and winds pick up.

Free State forecast

The Free State will see fog patches in the far east before clearing into fine, cool to warm conditions across the province. Bloemfontein and Welkom can expect pleasant weather, though chilly mornings may still call for light jackets.

Northern Cape forecast

The Northern Cape will be fine and generally cool to warm, though the far southeast will remain cold. Towns such as Sutherland should prepare for a frosty start before temperatures rise later in the day.

Western Cape forecast

In the Western Cape, fine and cold to cool conditions will dominate, with cloudy patches drifting into the southern parts. Coastal towns like Hermanus and George may see partly cloudy skies, while inland areas will remain cooler under clearer skies.

Eastern Cape forecast

The province faces mixed conditions. In the western half, morning fog will cover the interior before clearing into fine and cool weather. The south will be partly cloudy to cloudy.

In the eastern half, inland areas will clear to fine conditions, while the coast and surrounding interior remain partly cloudy. By evening, light rain is expected along the Wild Coast and nearby interior, providing much-needed relief for drought-stressed communities.

KwaZulu-Natal forecast

KwaZulu-Natal residents should prepare for a partly cloudy to cloudy Thursday. The province will be warm overall, with the north heating up to hot conditions in towns like Vryheid and Ulundi. Isolated showers and rain are expected across most areas except the west.

The UVB sunburn index will peak at “extreme,” the highest rating on the scale. SAWS officials warn that unprotected skin can suffer damage within minutes.

What This Means for Residents

While fine and warm conditions confirm that spring has settled in, the danger of veld fires looms large. Officials urge households and communities across the northern provinces to stay prepared—cut firebreaks, store equipment safely, and keep emergency contacts at hand.

Residents are also reminded that everyday actions matter: properly extinguishing cigarettes, reporting unattended fires, and avoiding reckless burning could save lives and livelihoods during this high-risk period.