On Monday, 4 March, portions of the Cape Winelands and Overberg Districts in the Western Cape are preparing for severe thunderstorms, as warned by South African Weather Service (SAWS).
This weather phenomenon is driven by a cut-off low-pressure system. It could bring about rapid heavy downpours, excessive lightning, strong downdraughts, and the possibility of significant accumulation of small hail.
IOL News reported that Anton Bredell, the Western Cape Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, stated, “We have activated the district disaster management centres and will closely monitor the weather patterns in collaboration with the weather services.”
SAWS warns of severe weather, thunderstorms
SAWS issued alerts of rapid heavy downpours causing floods, excessive lightning, strong downdraughts, and the potential for large amounts of small hail.
The weather service also cautioned that the storm may bring heavy winds and downpours. This poses risks of localised flooding and structural damage.
Authorities are ramping up preparedness measures across affected areas, urging residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines.
Proactive disaster management strategies highlighted
The looming threat of severe weather highlights the importance of proactive disaster management strategies and community resilience initiatives.
As the region braces for the impending storms, cooperation between government agencies and meteorological services remains crucial.
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