Gauteng braces for cold, wet weather overnight. Image: SABC News.
(The Post News)- The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has urged residents in parts of Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal to prepare for severe thunderstorms that could cause floods and major damage to infrastructure on Thursday, 06 November 2025.
According to SAWS, several provinces are placed under a Yellow Level 2 Weather Warning due to heavy downpours, damaging winds, and thunderstorms across the affected provinces. The warning for Gauteng is expected to remain in effect from 14:00 on Thursday until 02:59 on Friday.
The weather service cautioned that the severe weather could result in localized flooding of roads, low-lying areas, and bridges, as well as minor vehicle accidents and injuries caused by heavy rainfall. Residents are urged to remain indoors where possible and to avoid crossing flooded roads or low-water bridges.
“Alberton has already been affected by the early rainfall. Heavy downpours on Thursday morning led to localized flooding in several neighborhoods, leaving motorists stranded and causing significant traffic disruptions,” said SAWS.
The Alberton Record has received a number of reports and videos from residents showing flooded streets and struggling vehicles, particularly in Brackenhurst and Meyersdal, where Hennie Alberts Street was submerged under rising waters. “Several cars were reportedly stuck as drivers attempted to navigate through the flooded roadway. While no major injuries have been reported, emergency services have been on high alert, monitoring vulnerable areas and responding to calls for assistance,” reported SAWS.
Local authorities have urged residents to exercise caution and to report blocked storm drains or flooded areas to municipal services.
According to SAWS, the storm systems are being driven by unstable atmospheric conditions associated with a low-pressure trough moving across the interior. “We’re seeing strong convective activity building up over the Highveld and extending into the Lowveld. This means intense thunderstorms, with possible hail and gusty winds, can be expected in affected provinces,” SAWS said.
Thunderstorms Expected in Parts of SA
In Mpumalanga’s Highveld, central Limpopo, and the northwestern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, residents are also being warned of potential storm-related hazards. SAWS cautioned that these areas may experience similar conditions, including heavy downpours, hail, and strong winds, which could lead to damage to vehicles, property, and crops, as well as pose a risk to livelihoods and livestock.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and to follow updates from the South African Weather Service through official channels. SAWS also advises securing outdoor items that may be blown away by strong winds and ensuring that gutters and stormwater drains are clear of debris to minimize flooding risks.
SAWS added, “Motorists are encouraged to drive cautiously, maintain safe following distances, and avoid flooded roads. Residents in informal settlements and low-lying areas are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their homes and belongings.”
With the summer rainfall season now underway, SAWS reports that it expects increased thunderstorm activity across much of the interior in the coming weeks, urging communities to stay alert to further weather advisories.
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