South Africa is entering its storm season, with experts warning that recent severe weather is only the beginning. The most significant storms are expected in January and February.
According to weather expert Juandre Vorster, the current hailstorms and thunderstorms across the country are the start of the seasonal pattern. He noted that extreme weather in areas like Johannesburg’s East Rand is an annual occurrence.
The South African Weather Service forecasts a week of widespread thunderstorms for Gauteng, starting with an 80% chance on Monday and Tuesday, becoming more isolated later in the week.
For farmers, the impact of the storms is mixed. TLU chair Bennie van Zyl stated that while rain is better than drought, climate change has made weather patterns less predictable. He explained that heavy rain and hail have been beneficial for cattle farmers by promoting good grazing. However, for fruit farmers like peach growers, the storms can completely destroy their crops.
Meanwhile, water authorities are managing high dam levels. The Department of Water and Sanitation has begun closing sluice gates at the Vaal Dam as water levels begin to slowly decrease following recent rains. The Bloemhof Dam remains at full capacity. The department continues to monitor levels and will adjust water outflows as needed.
