By Rorisang Modiba
- A cut-off low-pressure system could bring snow to Gauteng and surrounding provinces starting Monday, 9 June.
- Emergency teams in Johannesburg are on high alert as officials warn of freezing temperatures and dangerous roads.
As a freezing cold front moves across South Africa, Johannesburg residents could see a rare sight next week: snow.
The South African Weather Service said a cut-off low system is building and will hit the country early next week. It is expected to bring freezing temperatures and possibly snow to parts of Gauteng from Monday, 9 June.
“All provinces will experience a significant and dramatic drop in temperatures,” the weather service said, “with the possible exception of Limpopo.”
Temperatures are set to fall into the single digits, and some areas could drop below freezing. The icy weather could lead to slippery roads and major travel disruptions.
The warning comes as thousands of runners will be heading home from the Comrades Marathon this weekend, raising fears of possible traffic problems.
Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Services have placed teams on high alert. They are urging people to stay safe, especially when using heaters and other appliances to stay warm. Many fires and accidents happen every winter due to the unsafe use of these devices.
People planning to travel are being advised to dress warmly and pack emergency supplies like food, water and blankets, especially if they are heading to areas where snow is more likely.
Snow in Gauteng is extremely rare, but not impossible. The last big snowfall in Johannesburg happened in August 2012 and lasted several hours.
Pictured above: Snowfall in Johannesburg.
Image source: File
