By Akani Nkuna
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is forecasting partly cloudy conditions over the festive season, with rainfall expected mostly in the afternoons and an increased likelihood of thunderstorm activity.
SAWS senior forecaster Jaqueline Modika addressed the media at a briefing hosted by the National Press Club at the Court Classique Hotel in Pretoria on Thursday, about the expected weather conditions for the summer period from December 2025 to April 2026 — a time marked by heightened outdoor activity.
“Looking ahead to the festive season, including Christmas and the New Year period, the South African Weather Service expects partly cloudy and warm-to-cool conditions across much of the country. Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are anticipated mainly over the central and eastern parts of South Africa,” she said.
“Thunderstorm activity is expected to occur primarily in the afternoons, although periods of increased moisture may result in morning showers in some areas. Much of the rainfall during this period will be associated with afternoon and evening thundershowers, which may at times be accompanied by heavy downpours, lightning and gusty winds.”
Modika said it was important that communities, government and decision-makers were properly informed, to ensure coordinated measures to contain and minimise potential risks during the period.
She added that SAWS remains ready to support disaster risk reduction efforts, particularly following the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) roadmap, which was launched in October as part of a G20 Summit side event. The initiative highlights the drive to protect people from adverse weather through inclusive, life-saving early warning systems by the end of 2027.
Modika said SAWS’ commitment goes beyond issuing scientifically informed warnings, and includes implementing “timely, accessible, understandable and actionable” measures, with an emphasis on vulnerable communities to reduce disruption from severe weather.
“The public is strongly urged to take weather warnings seriously, as they play a critical role in reducing the risk of injury, loss of life or property damage. It is of utmost importance for the public, particularly vulnerable communities, to regularly consult credible weather forecast and warnings sources for developments and take appropriate action as part of their daily routine,” Modika said.
She also encouraged practical safety steps during thunderstorms and heavy rain, including seeking shelter, securing property, avoiding travel through flooded roads, and reporting fallen trees and damage to municipal authorities as part of broader efforts to prevent injuries and save lives.
“Avoid crossing flooded bridges, stay informed by following official SAWS weather updates, take necessary precautions during thunderstorm activity, ensure festive travel plans consider changing weather conditions,” she said.
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