Find out what the latest weather forecast from the SA Weather Service means for your region on 16 December 2025.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has escalated warnings for a complex and potentially dangerous weather system set to impact multiple provinces on Tuesday, 16 December. This is not a routine forecast; it represents a convergence of several severe weather phenomena—thunderstorms, fire danger, damaging winds, and hail—that require heightened public awareness and preparedness.
Understanding the severity levels of these warnings is crucial. SAWS uses a colour-coded system: Yellow Level 2 indicates a high likelihood of minor to moderate impacts, while Yellow Level 1 suggests a moderate likelihood of minor impacts. These are not mere advisories but calls to action for residents in the affected regions.
Weather warnings for 16 December
Impact-based warnings
Decoding the Severe Weather Warnings
1. Severe Thunderstorms (Yellow Level 2 Warning):
SAWS has issued this alert for the central Northern Cape, extreme northeastern Western Cape, and most of the Eastern Cape interior. The primary threat is localised flooding from heavy downpours, which can rapidly overwhelm drainage systems, making low-lying areas, bridges, and informal settlements particularly vulnerable. The secondary, but equally dangerous, threats include:
– Excessive Lightning: A major cause of injuries, wildfires, and power surges.
– Damaging Winds: Gusts strong enough to break tree limbs, damage structures, and create hazardous driving conditions.
– Large Hail: Beyond damaging crops and vehicles, large hail can cause serious injury to people and animals caught outdoors.
2. Damaging Winds (Yellow Level 1 Warning):
Targeting the central-southern Northern Cape and northeastern Western Cape, these winds pose a specific risk to high-sided vehicles (like trucks and buses) on exposed routes. Crosswinds can easily overturn these vehicles. The warning also notes potential damage to formal and informal settlements, where loose roofing material and temporary structures are at high risk.
Fire danger warnings
3. Extreme Fire Danger:
Paradoxically coinciding with storm warnings, extremely high fire danger conditions are forecast for the central Northern Cape, northeastern Western Cape, and northwestern Eastern Cape. This indicates hot, dry, and windy conditions preceding the storm fronts. A single spark—from machinery, a cigarette, or lightning—could ignite a fast-moving veld fire. This is a critical day for fire prevention and heightened vigilance in these areas.
Advisories
4. Oppressive Humidity:
Residents in eastern KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape interior should prepare for hot and humid conditions leading to “extremely uncomfortable” levels. This poses health risks, particularly for the elderly, young children, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The risk of heat exhaustion increases, making hydration and staying in cool environments essential.
ALSO READ: RTMC warns motorists to take precautions during bad weather
Provincial weather forecast
Provincial Forecast & Actionable Guidance
Here is a detailed breakdown for Tuesday, 16 December, with added context on what each forecast means for your safety and plans:
Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West & Free State:
While largely experiencing partly cloudy and warm conditions with isolated showers, the key phrase is “isolated thundershowers.” These can be intense and hyper-localised. Be aware of rapidly changing conditions if you are outdoors. The high UVB index in Gauteng and KZN remains a concern—sunburn can occur in under 30 minutes.
Northern Cape & Western Cape (Warning Zones):
These are the epicentres of today’s severe weather. The forecast of hot, very hot, and windy conditions, coupled with scattered showers and thundershowers, encapsulates the dual threat. The fire danger is acute before storms arrive. Once storms hit, the risk shifts to flash flooding and wind damage. The very high UVB index in the Western Cape adds another layer of hazard.
Eastern Cape (Western & Eastern Halves):
Expect hot to very hot temperatures with scattered showers and thundershowers. The western half is within the Level 2 thunderstorm warning zone. The combination of heat and storm activity requires a flexible approach: prepare for heat stress while also being ready to seek shelter from sudden lightning, hail, and heavy rain.
KwaZulu-Natal:
Partly cloudy, warm to hot with isolated showers. The main concern here is the oppressive humidity in the eastern parts, which will make temperatures feel several degrees hotter than they are. The high UV index also applies.
Critical Safety Recommendations
- Driving: If you encounter heavy rain, turn on your headlights and increase following distance. Never cross flooded roads or bridges. Be especially cautious of sudden, severe crosswinds.
- At Home: Secure loose outdoor items. Clear debris from drains and gutters to reduce flood risk. Have a battery-powered radio and emergency kit ready in case of power outages.
- Fire Awareness: In high-fire danger areas, avoid any activities that could cause sparks. Report any signs of fire immediately.
- Health: In humid areas, drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, and seek air-conditioned spaces if possible.
Stay informed by monitoring official updates from the South African Weather Service and local disaster management channels. This multifaceted weather event demands respect and proactive planning.