Today's weather: Thunderstorms hit Eastern SA while West remains clear

South Africa faces a split in weather conditions on Friday, as the South African Weather Service issues a Yellow Level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms over parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

The warning highlights the risk of heavy downpours, localised flooding of low-lying areas and bridges, strong winds and pockets of small hail, particularly around Thabazimbi, Bela-Bela, Polokwane and surrounding districts.

Rain chances will be highest across the eastern half of the country, where scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected. Much of Limpopo, Mpumalanga and northern Gauteng carries a 60% chance of rain, with isolated 30% chances extending through KwaZulu-Natal and parts of the Free State. 

Widespread storms are not anticipated, but the intensity of isolated cells may still lead to dangerous conditions.

In contrast, the western provinces will experience a calm and dry day. The Western Cape, Northern Cape and large parts of the Eastern Cape interior are forecast to see no rainfall, with clear to partly cloudy skies persisting from Cape Town through Beaufort West and Upington.

As thunderstorms build in the east and heat lingers across the interior, residents in the warning zones are urged to stay alert for sudden weather changes, avoid flooded roads and secure loose outdoor items.

The day promises a mix of summer sunshine and storm-driven disruptions, depending on which side of the country you find yourself.

IOL News