Key moments
On March 27, 2026, the South African Weather Service issued a series of weather warnings for severe thunderstorms expected to impact various provinces across the country. The warnings highlight the potential for hazardous weather conditions, including heavy downpours, hail, and strong winds.
A Yellow Level 4 Warning has been specifically issued for severe thunderstorms in north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal, while a Yellow Level 2 Warning covers central to eastern Northern Cape, northern Eastern Cape, west to southern KwaZulu-Natal, and most parts of Free State. Additionally, a Yellow Level 1 Warning has been issued for the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape.
These warnings indicate that severe thunderstorms could lead to localised flooding in low-lying areas, impacting roads and bridges, as well as causing potential damage to infrastructure, settlements, property, vehicles, and livestock. Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in flood-prone regions.
The South African Weather Service has cautioned that hazardous conditions may affect road safety due to slippery surfaces and poor visibility. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and intense lightning are expected in the areas under warning, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where the warning is valid from Friday evening until midnight on Saturday.
In a statement, the Weather Service noted, “The thunderstorms could lead to localised flooding of low-lying areas, susceptible roads and bridges as well as localised damage to infrastructure, settlements (informal), property, vehicles, livelihood and livestock are expected.” This highlights the potential severity of the storms and the risks they pose to communities.
As the weather situation develops, authorities are monitoring the conditions closely. The wind along the coast is expected to be light and variable between Port Shepstone and Richards Bay at first, transitioning to light to moderate northerly to north-easterly winds later.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and heed any advisories issued by local authorities. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the impact, but the situation is being closely watched as the storms approach.
