MINISTER HLABISA URGES VIGILANCE AS WETTER-THAN-NORMAL SUMMER SEASON IS PREDICTED

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, calls on all communities across South Africa to exercise heightened caution as the country enters a summer season expected to bring above-normal rainfall.

According to the latest seasonal forecast issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), this year’s summer is likely to be wetter than usual, with the probability of above-normal rainfall increasing towards mid-summer. While much of the eastern interior is expected to experience significant rainfall, the far north-eastern regions may see slightly lower probabilities, with forecasts leaning towards below-normal rainfall in isolated areas.

The Minister emphasised that the forecasted conditions, especially the high likelihood of above-normal rainfall coinciding with the main rainfall season, could lead to flooding, storm-related damage, and increased public health risks.

“Recent weather impacts remind us how quickly conditions can escalate once thunderstorms intensify,” Minister Hlabisa said. “We urge all residents to take every weather warning seriously. Doing so can save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.”

The public is encouraged to take the following precautions:

• Monitor regular updates from SAWS and other official channels.
• Seek shelter immediately when thunderstorms approach.
• Move vehicles under cover where possible to prevent hail damage.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads, as water levels may be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
• Report fallen trees, flooding, damaged infrastructure, or blocked drains to municipal authorities without delay.

COGTA continues to work closely through the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) with municipalities, and other disaster response agencies to strengthen early warning systems and ensure readiness for weather-related emergencies.

“Prepared communities are safer communities. Let us all remain vigilant, stay informed, and act promptly when warnings are issued,” Minister Hlabisa said.

Ends –

For media enquiries, kindly contact:

Ms. Pearl Maseko-Binqose

Media Liaison Officer to the Minister of CoGTA

+27 (82) 772 1709

Mr. Legadima Leso

COGTA Head of Communications

+27 (66) 479 9904

Issued by the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs