Weather warning: Severe thunderstorms in the central Western Cape

• Severe thunderstorms are forecast for the central Western Cape.
• Residents have to expect heavy precipitation of up to 30 mm.
• Local flooding is also to be expected.

The residents of the Western Cape have been warned of severe thunderstorms in the Karoo and disruptive rainfall in the surrounding areas.

The thunderstorms, which began in the central parts of the province on Thursday evening, should last until Friday.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that disruptive rainfall can be expected in the Garden Route, Central Karoo, Cape Winelands and Overberg (east of Ceres and Robertson). The SAWS projects precipitation between 20mm and 30mm, strong gusty winds, strong lightning and a large amount of small hail.

Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, MEC Anton Bredell, said the affected regions include some of the province’s worst drought-stricken areas.

READ | 6,000 people affected by storms in the Western Cape

“We hope the good rains will bring welcome relief in this regard, but we need to warn the public of the high likelihood of major disruptions due to the severity of the storm,” he said.

The SAWS has warned of damage to infrastructure and local flooding in settlements.

“Local flooding and flash flooding from vulnerable roads, low-lying areas and bridges, including mountain passes such as the Meiringspoort Pass, due to heavy rainfall can occur. We urge the public to exercise extreme caution when traveling in the affected areas … be dangerous can and as much as possible avoid being outdoors, “said Bredell.

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