A hoax message has been making rounds, claiming that there will be a cold spell countrywide, due to “the Aphelion phenomenon” until the month of August 2025. This statement is false, and it is misleading, the South African Weather Services (SAWS).
“In definition, Aphelion is the point in Earth’s orbit where it is farthest from the sun. According to research, it is expected to occur on the 3 July 15:54 and it is important that we emphasise that the distance variation does not significantly impact temperatures or seasons in South Africa, a press release by the SAWS stated.
The seasons are determined by the eaarth’s axial tilt, not its distance from the sun.
“As such, we plead with the public not to circulate misleading information. According to our seasonal climate watch, issued on the 2 May, minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be above normal for most parts of the country during the winter season, above normal meaning that the temperatures are expected to be warmer than what we would get during our winter months.”
“South Africa will continue to be affected by different weather winter systems that are known to drop temperatures like the cold fronts and cut off lows. In addition, the southern coastal regions are expected to have below normal temperatures for the remainder of the winter period,” the SAWS said.
“Furthermore, the El Nino- Southern Oscillation (ENSO) returned to a neutral state and it is predicted to remain there for the foreseeable future. It is important to note that ENSO has limited influence on South Africa during the winter season and is not expected to have a significant impact.”
“However, as winter begins the focus is over the south-western parts of the country, as well as along the east and south coastal regions. These areas are expected to receive below-normal rainfall early-, mid- and late winter,” according to the press release.
