Key Takeaways:
- Disruptive rain and flooding are expected to continue in parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga
- Thunderstorms are forecasted across most provinces, with damaging winds expected between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas
- Hot and uncomfortable conditions are expected in the western parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape
- Various weather warnings and advisories have been issued, including Orange Level 4 and Yellow Level 2 warnings for disruptive rain and severe thunderstorms
- The weather is expected to vary by province, with partly cloudy and cool to warm conditions in Gauteng, and hot to very hot conditions in the Northern Cape and Western Cape
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a weather forecast for January 19-20, 2026, warning of disruptive rain and flooding in parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. The forecast also indicates that thunderstorms can be expected in most provinces, with damaging winds forecasted between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the weather forecast, including the expected weather conditions for each province, as well as the various weather warnings and advisories that have been issued.
Weather Warnings and Advisories
The SAWS has issued several weather warnings and advisories, including an Orange Level 4 warning for disruptive rain with heavy downpours in the northern parts of Limpopo, leading to the flooding of roads, settlements, low-lying bridges/areas, and posing a risk to life. A Yellow Level 2 warning has also been issued for disruptive rain in the eastern and western parts of Limpopo, and along the escarpment and Lowveld in Mpumalanga, causing localized flooding, increased travel times, and affecting major roads. Additionally, a Yellow Level 2 warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms in the central and eastern parts of the North West, central Free State, south-western Gauteng, and extreme south-western Limpopo, leading to localized flooding, hail, damaging winds, and infrastructure damage.
Weather Conditions by Province
The weather conditions are expected to vary by province, with partly cloudy and cool to warm conditions expected in Gauteng. In Mpumalanga, morning fog patches are expected over the escarpment and Highveld, otherwise cloudy and cold to cool with isolated showers and thundershowers. In Limpopo, cloudy and cool conditions are expected with scattered showers and thundershowers, isolated in the south-east. The North West is expected to be partly cloudy and warm with scattered showers and thundershowers, isolated in the west. The Free State is expected to be partly cloudy and warm to hot with scattered showers and thundershowers in the central areas, isolated elsewhere.
Temperature and Weather Outlook
The temperature is expected to vary by province, with hot and uncomfortable conditions expected in the western parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape. The weather outlook for Monday and Tuesday, January 19-20, 2026, is expected to be partly cloudy and cool in the central and eastern parts with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers. Otherwise, fine and warm to hot but very hot in places. The coastal winds are expected to be moderate to fresh southerly to south-easterly, becoming strong to near gale force along the south-west coast in the afternoon.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the weather forecast for January 19-20, 2026, indicates that disruptive rain and flooding are expected to continue in parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with thunderstorms forecasted across most provinces. The various weather warnings and advisories that have been issued highlight the need for caution and awareness, particularly in areas that are prone to flooding and severe thunderstorms. It is essential to stay informed about the latest weather forecast and to take necessary precautions to ensure safety. By understanding the expected weather conditions and taking necessary precautions, individuals can minimize the risks associated with severe weather events and stay safe.