South Africans are being urged to prepare for a wetter-than-usual summer, with isolated flooding possible in some areas, the South African Weather Service has warned.
The outlook for the 2025/2026 summer season, running from December 2025 to April 2026, predicts above-normal rainfall across the country’s central and eastern regions, including Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, parts of North West, and the Free State.
Senior forecaster Jacqueline Modika explained that the wetter conditions are linked to a weak La Niña climate pattern.
“From a disaster risk reduction perspective, the anticipated rainfall may benefit water resources and agriculture, but it also increases the risk of localised flooding, particularly in flood-prone areas, informal settlements and regions with poor drainage infrastructure,” she said.
She added that residents should remain alert, especially during periods of persistent or intense rainfall.
“The public is strongly urged to take warnings seriously, as they play a critical role in reducing injuries, loss of life and property damage,” Modika said.
During the festive season, SAWS expects partly cloudy conditions with warm to cool temperatures across most of the country. Isolated to scattered thundershowers are forecast mainly over central and eastern areas, with storms developing in the afternoons and evenings. These may bring heavy downpours, lightning, and gusty winds.
Modika urged residents to seek shelter during thunderstorms, avoid driving through flooded roads, and stay updated via official SAWS platforms.
“As recent events have shown, weather conditions can deteriorate rapidly, and staying informed can be a matter of life and death,” she said.
Photo: Oyisa George/VOC News
