Rare snowfall disrupts South Africa, five dead as cut-off low sweeps country

A rare and intense cut-off low system impacted South Africa from June 7 to 10, delivering snow, heavy rainfall, and cold temperatures to all provinces except Limpopo. The event caused widespread disruption to transportation infrastructure, led to power outages, and resulted in five fatalities.

Snowfall began intensifying on Monday, June 9, and affected multiple provinces, with the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal worst hit. Several segments of the N2 and N9 highways were closed due to snow accumulation and hazardous conditions. A fatal traffic accident occurred on the N2, where a tree felled by the weather system killed five occupants of a passing vehicle.

Road closures and delays were reported across numerous snow-affected regions, with authorities urging the public to avoid travel. The snowfall disrupted electricity supply in various areas and was notable for occurring in low-elevation zones rarely affected by snow.

Wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph) were recorded in Durban on June 10, where sustained winds reached over 50 km/h (32 mph). The winds caused tree falls and localized structural damage.

In the Eastern Cape, torrential rainfall associated with the COL system triggered widespread flooding in Mthatha, Mqanduli, and Elliotdale. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued an orange level 9 warning for the region. KwaZulu-Natal was under a level 4 alert for damaging winds, compounding hazards in the coastal and inland districts.

The cut-off low, first detected and warned about by SAWS on June 5, led to a sharp drop in temperatures across the country. Authorities emphasized the need for thermal preparedness and urged residents to avoid travel in snow-struck areas.

Forecasts for June 11 and 12 indicate the persistence of cold temperatures in the southeast, with isolated rainfall expected along the east coast under cloudy conditions. While the overall severity is decreasing, the lingering cold is expected to maintain hazardous conditions in some regions.

The public was advised by government officials to remain indoors where possible and to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse conditions.

Harsh Vardhan

My passions include trying my best to save a dying planet, be it through carpooling or by spreading awareness about it. Research comes naturally to me, complemented by a keen interest in writing and journalism. Guided by a curious mind and a drive to look beyond the surface, I strive to bring thoughtful attention and clarity to subjects across Earth, sciences, environment, and everything in between.

This author does not have any more posts.