The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has predicted widespread cold and wet weather from Thursday 11 May.
It says the spell of very cold and rainy weather is expected to extend into the weekend. This rainy spell will be heralded by the arrival of a cold front over the south-western part of the Western Cape on Thursday morning.
There is a significant likelihood of widespread and heavy rainfall, especially over the coastal mountain regions, leading to localised flooding. Day-time temperatures for this week are expected to drop significantly from Friday into Saturday, where maximum temperatures may be below 10°C in places.
Daytime temperatures are expected to drop significantly and residents of the Overberg can prepare for temperatures to drop significantly from Thursday onwards. On Friday, a maximum temperature of 13°C and a minimum of 4°C with a 60% chance of rain is predicted for Grabouw, while Hermanus can expect a maximum of 15°C and a minimum of 10°C with a 60% chance of rain.
According to the SAWS website, Agulhas and surrounds can expect a maximum of 15°C on Saturday and a minimum of 13°C with a 60% chance of rain.
The sea state will also be affected with wave heights of 4 to 5 m between Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay from Friday into Saturday. Strong to near gale-force south-easterly winds are expected north of Cape Point on Friday, while spreading along the south coast on Saturday. These strong winds, accompanied with significant wave heights, will result in very rough and choppy sea conditions.
Cloudy and cold to very cold weather will dominate from Friday onwards. Widespread rain and showers will accompany this system, with the likelihood of heavy rain and localised flooding being of particular concern for the southern and south-eastern coastline and adjacent interior.
The Weather Services said in a statement on Tuesday that given the expectation of an extended spell of cold, wet weather, farmers of small stock are advised to move animals to dry shelters at lower elevations. “Moreover, only experienced, well-prepared hikers and climbers should venture into the mountains and hiking trails this weekend,” the statement warned. “The risk of hypothermia in mountainous terrain, especially if lost, injured or ill-prepared could prove to be life-threatening.”
Visit www.weathersa.co.za as well as via the SA Weather Service Twitter account @SAWeatherServic for regular updates.
