Cape Town - An intense cold front is expected to make landfall over the Western and Northern Cape on Thursday.
The SA Weather Service issued an early warning for bad weather including damaging winds, disruptive rain and snow, for later this week.
The cold fronts are expected to make landfall on Thursday in the Western Cape with heavy rain predicted from Thursday afternoon, spreading over the entire province by the evening.
Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell said the province’s disaster management centres are on standby and urged the public to take note of the latest warnings.
Rainfall accumulation of up to 50mm can be expected over the south-western parts of the province, which may lead to localised flooding.
“The cold fronts that are moving into the province this week will bring a significant drop in temperatures on Friday and Saturday, and may lead to light to moderate snowfalls occurring over the high-lying areas. The weather is expected to clear up by Sunday.”
Bredell urged the public to take all necessary precautions.
“Clear out drains and areas around dwellings to ensure water can run off quickly. Simple preparations ahead of time can make a tremendous difference.”
Regional numbers for reporting emergencies in the Western Cape:
· City of Cape Town – 107 or 021 480 7700 and 080 911 4357
· Overberg – 028 425 1690
· West Coast – 022 433 8700
· Garden Route – 044 805 5071
· Central Karoo – 023 449 8000
· Cape Winelands – 021 886 9244 / 021 887 4446
Cape Times