South Africans are being urged to brace for extreme winter weather as a powerful cold front sweep across the country. The Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has issued a warning ahead of a major Cut-Off Low system, which brings snow, heavy rain, strong winds and plunging temperatures to nearly all provinces.
Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa called for nationwide vigilance, especially in vulnerable and rural communities. The South African Weather Service forecasts widespread snowfall—excluding Limpopo—that could disrupt major routes, including the N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass. Heavy rainfall and flooding are likely in parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Severe thunderstorms, with hail and damaging winds, are expected early this week in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, North West, and KwaZulu-Natal. Daytime temperatures are forecast to drop below 10°C in many areas, putting the elderly, children, and small-scale farmers at particular risk.
The Minister urged provincial and local authorities to step up readiness efforts and called on farmers to take urgent steps to protect livestock and infrastructure.
Residents are advised to stay off the roads where possible, monitor weather updates closely, stock up on essentials, and assist neighbours who may be at risk. Flooded roads and low-lying bridges should be avoided at all costs.
“We must work together to protect lives and property,” said Minister Hlabisa. “This is a time for solidarity and care.”
Emergency services remain on standby, with disaster management teams across all levels of government ready to respond as needed.
