Gauteng residents can expect an icy weekend ahead as temperatures drop significantly

Gauteng residents should brace themselves for a sharp drop in temperatures this weekend as a significant cold spell grips the province. While the skies are expected to remain clear, the air will turn biting, especially in the early mornings and late evenings. The South African Weather Service has confirmed that the cold front moving across the country will bring no rain, but will tighten its grip with freezing morning lows and crisp, dry air.

In Pretoria, Saturday will start off with icy air drifting in from the southeast. The early morning minimum is forecast to hit a chilly four degrees Celsius. The day will gradually warm, but only reach a modest high of sixteen degrees in the afternoon.

By late evening, the temperature is expected to dip once again, bringing another cold night. Winds will remain gentle, but the light breeze will offer little relief from the persistent cold. Around eight in the morning, the temperature is expected to be near seven degrees, before peaking at around fifteen in the early afternoon.

Sunday will bring a slight improvement, with afternoon temperatures expected to climb to nineteen degrees. However, the morning will once again begin with temperatures close to freezing, prompting forecasters to advise residents to dress warmly and take appropriate precautions to stay comfortable and safe. Humidity is predicted to increase slightly as the day progresses, starting at around forty-five percent before rising to sixty percent by midday, contributing to the brisk winter feel.

In Johannesburg, the cold will be even more intense. The city is expected to start Saturday morning at a freezing five degrees, with daytime highs struggling to reach beyond fourteen degrees. Despite the sunshine and lack of clouds, the dry air and low humidity will add to the harshness of the cold. Winds will remain steady throughout the day, but without enough strength to significantly alter the chill factor.

Sunday in Johannesburg offers a similar weather pattern. A frosty morning low of four degrees will give way to a slightly warmer afternoon, reaching around sixteen degrees at its peak. The skies will remain clear throughout, but the unrelenting dry cold will continue to define the weekend’s weather.

Although Gauteng will not see any snowfall or rainfall during this period, the cold front's impact will be felt. The weather is part of a broader national trend, with colder-than-average winter conditions reported across several regions. The South African Weather Service continues to monitor the situation closely but assures that no disruptive weather events, such as heavy rain or strong winds, are expected during this period.

Residents are advised to make use of heating devices safely, dress in warm layers, and prepare for frigid mornings and cool afternoons. The weekend offers ideal conditions for indoor activities or warm outings in the sun, but the cold will remain a dominant feature across the province.