With rainfall totals exceeding 100mm in some areas, Eastern Cape residents face weather alerts for flooding as rain and thunderstorms continue. File Picture: Doctor Ngcobo/Independent Media
The Eastern Cape is experiencing significant rainfall, with reports of over 100mm in some areas within just 24 hours, as the South African Weather Service issues warnings for potential flooding across the region.
The SABC News weather desk on Tuesday, October 29, noted that this downpour exceeds the heavy rain threshold of 50mm, intensifying concerns over localised flooding, particularly along the south coast.
The southern Cape areas are seeing widespread rain, with conditions expected to remain wet through much of the week. Thunderstorms are forecast for regions including Eastern Cape’s Uitenhage and Mthatha, where previous heavy rains had already raised water levels.
Alongside these wet conditions, strong coastal winds continue to affect the area, creating further hazards for residents. In contrast, northern parts of the country are seeing drier conditions.
Limpopo, for instance, remains mostly sunny, though scattered thunderstorms are possible in eastern sections. The high fire danger warning remains active in Limpopo’s interior regions, with residents advised to avoid open flames and take precautions against potential fires in the dry conditions.
Temperatures in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal remain lower than seasonal norms, particularly along the coast where highs are expected to stay in the lower 20s. Inland areas, such as Johannesburg, are experiencing warmer conditions, reaching around 25°C, while the Western Cape has seen milder weather with occasional isolated showers.
The weather service has urged Eastern Cape residents to remain vigilant, especially those in low-lying areas, and to monitor further updates for possible flood alerts.
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