Gauteng is expected to face bitterly cold weather conditions throughout the weekend. Forecasters predict rain, sleet, and daytime temperatures struggling to reach above 15°C. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has urged residents to prepare for a cold front and possible weather-related disruptions.
Gauteng freezing weekend: Cold front brings sleet and showers
According to SAWS weather forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela, the cold front began affecting the province on Friday and will linger through Saturday.
“In today’s (Friday) weather in Gauteng, it will be a cloudy day with cold temperatures, isolated showers and thunderstorms, but scattered over the southern part until the afternoon”, said Thobela.
Temperatures are significantly lower than average for this time of year, with Johannesburg peaking at just 14°C.
“Maximum temperatures are reaching about 18 to 17 degrees Celsius in the northern parts, for the central as well as the southern parts it is below 15 degrees with a maximum of 13 degrees in the southern parts, as well as around 14 degrees in Johannesburg this afternoon,” he added.
Sleet spotted in parts of the province
Thobela confirmed that sleet had already been observed in certain areas.
“It was observed in parts of the extreme southern areas around Meyerton and some areas in the extreme eastern parts around Benoni,” he said.
While not common in Gauteng, sleet is possible when temperatures drop below freezing in the upper atmosphere while surface levels remain just above freezing.
These conditions have raised concerns for road users, informal settlements, and those with limited access to heating. Authorities are advising the public to wear layered clothing and exercise caution on wet or icy roads.
Relief expected by Sunday afternoon
While the cold front will continue through Saturday, a slow temperature recovery is expected by late Sunday.
“We’re still expecting cold temperatures into the weekend… On Sunday, you’ll start seeing a recovery in temperatures from the afternoon in Gauteng,” Thobela noted.
As the province prepares for another chilly snap, are you ready to keep warm and safe during Gauteng’s wintry weekend?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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