Central SA
Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected across Free State and Northern Cape─── ZENANDE MPAME 12:04 Sat, 19 Sep 2026
It is expected to continue affecting parts of the two provinces. Residents in Bloemfontein have been urged to remain cautious as localised flooding has already been reported in low-lying areas and streets with poor drainage.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that severe thunderstorms could bring heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail, with the conditions potentially causing further flooding, damage to infrastructure and disruptions to essential services.
The latest forecast for Saturday (19/9) indicates cloudy, windy and cool conditions in the Free State, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers expected over central and western parts of the province.
SAWS has also warned of severe thunderstorms over the north-eastern parts of the Northern Cape and western Free State, where an Orange level 5 warning is in place. Heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail could result in flooding, slippery roads, reduced visibility and danger to life.
“Rainfall is expected across a broad stretch of the country on Saturday, with the highest chances concentrated over the Northern Cape and neighbouring areas,” said the weather service in a statement. “The rainfall chart shows an 80% chance of widespread showers and thunderstorms over parts of the Northern Cape, while surrounding areas have a 60% chance of scattered rain and thunderstorms.
“Strong winds will add to the hazardous weekend conditions, with a Yellow level 2 warning covering much of the Northern Cape, western and northern Western Cape, and western North West. The winds could damage settlements, interrupt power and communication services, and make driving difficult.
“The conditions are expected to remain unsettled on Sunday, with the weather service’s outlook showing a large area of cooler and colder weather spreading across the country’s central and southern regions.”
The Free State department of community safety, roads, and transport has advised the public to:
- avoid crossing flooded areas, especially rivers and low-water bridges;
- do not attempt to walk or drive through fast-moving water; and
- find alternative routes and wait for water levels to drop before proceeding.
Residents needing emergency assistance can contact the Mangaung Fire Department on 051 406 6666 or 051 409 9600, or toll-free on 107. Power outages can be reported to Centlec on 051 409 2345 or via WhatsApp on 068 178 0700. State ambulance services can be reached on 10177.
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