South Africa Hit by Rare October Snowfall as Temperatures Plunge Below 5°C

Parts of South Africa experienced unusually cold weather on 30 October 2023, when snowfall reached the Drakensberg, eastern Free State and Mpumalanga, while daytime temperatures fell to levels more typical of winter.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) reported bitterly cold conditions across the eastern and south-eastern parts of the country, with several areas recording their lowest daytime temperatures of the year.

The weather system also brought rain, thunderstorms and strong winds to affected regions.

Snowfall Disrupts Roads in the Eastern Free State

Snow affected sections of major roads, including the N3 near Harrismith and Van Reenen’s Pass.

Motorists faced icy surfaces and reduced visibility, prompting transport authorities to issue warnings about hazardous driving conditions.

SAWS issued Yellow Level 2 warnings for disruptive snowfall in affected areas.

In its forecast for Monday, 30 October, the weather service warned of cloudy and cold conditions across central and eastern South Africa, accompanied by isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms.

The forecast also highlighted the risk of damaging winds, severe thunderstorms and disruptive snow.

Gauteng and Other Provinces Record Coldest Day of the Year

According to SAWS, 30 October 2023 was the coldest day of the year in Gauteng, parts of Mpumalanga and the eastern Free State.

Maximum temperatures in several areas remained in the low single digits, with little warming throughout the day.

Large parts of the eastern Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and western KwaZulu-Natal recorded daytime highs below 10°C.

Temperatures in some elevated areas remained below 5°C.

Combination of Weather Systems Brings Snow and Storms

SAWS attributed the unusually cold conditions to a combination of weather systems affecting the country’s interior.

A cut-off low-pressure system developed over the interior, while a cold front and a strong high-pressure system helped draw cold, moisture-laden air into eastern South Africa.

As the air moved inland, temperatures fell and conditions became suitable for snowfall over higher ground.

The same weather systems contributed to rainfall, strong winds and stormy conditions across several parts of the country.