Johannesburg: A low-pressure system is expected to influence weather conditions over the north-eastern parts of the country, bringing significant rain and thunderstorms over the coming days, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said.

According to South African Government News Agency, the SAWS announced that the weather system currently located over the southern parts of Mozambique is set to impact north-eastern South Africa. This development is predicted to bring widespread and persistent rain and thunderstorms to regions including the lowveld of Mpumalanga, the Limpopo Valley, and most eastern parts of Limpopo, with these conditions expected to last until at least Wednesday.

The SAWS has issued severe weather warnings, including an orange level 5 warning for severe thunderstorms on Saturday, 10 January 2026, and an orange level 6 warning for Sunday. These warnings highlight anticipated impacts such as flooding, potential damage to infrastructure and settlements, injuries, and a threat to life. The weather service also noted that there is a possibility of escalating warnings for parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga from Monday, depending on how the system evolves and the level of forecast confidence.

The system may extend its effects to the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal from Tuesday, with heavy rains likely. On Sunday, the weather service reported persistent rainfall continuing over the north-eastern regions, significantly affecting the Lowveld areas of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Observed rainfall amounts in eastern Limpopo have ranged between 18 and 85 mm, with notable accumulations reported at Graskop and Phalaborwa.

SAWS has urged the public and stakeholders to monitor official forecasts and warnings closely. They also advised caution against unauthorised or unverified information sources and warned against the distribution of such information.

Source: South African Government News Agency