SA weather service warning: Severe thunderstorms on the 16-17 december 2022

Scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers are expected over the Namakwa, Northern Cape and Western Cape on Friday and Saturday. The bulk of these storms will dominate over the western parts from the Friday late morning moving eastwards to the central and eastern parts during the afternoon and evening. The bulk of the storms is expected over the Overberg and Winelands on Saturday morning spreading eastwards during the day. Heavy downpours (20-30 mm/h), strong and gusty winds (50-60 km/h, gusting 70-80 km/h), excessive lightning and large amounts of small hail (1-2 cm in diameter) are possible. Hazard Alert Level Affected Municipalities Valid From (SAST) Valid To (SAST) Severe Thunderstorms Orange(L6) (High likelihood of Significant Impacts) Bergrivier, Bitou, Breede Valley, Cape Agulhas, Cederberg, Drakenstein, George, Hessequa, Kannaland, Knysna, Laingsburg, Langeberg, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Overstrand, Prince Albert, Saldanha Bay, Stellenbosch, Swartland, Swellendam, Theewaterskloof, Witzenberg 16/12/22 00h00 17/12/22 00h00 Impact: Flash flooding of roads and susceptible settlements as well as danger to life in crossing of fast flowing streams. Large amounts of small hail/large hail can cause damage to vehicles and difficult driving conditions, especially where heavy downpours are present. These conditions can lead to major travel disruptions and can be aggravated with possible falling trees blocking major roads. Loss of agricultural productions are also likely together with disruption to essential services. Instruction: If possible stay indoors away from metal objects. Do not seek shelter under trees or tall objects. Do not go fishing or play golf as both the golf clubs and fishing rods are a good conductor of electricity. Be aware that any combination of hail, strong winds and/or heavy downpours can accompany the storms. Issued by the SOUTH AFRICAN WEATHER SERVICE