COLD FRONT to make landfall in South Africa TODAY

A cold front spanning thousands of kilometers is expected to make landfall TODAY bringing with it freezing temperatures and SNOW.

By: Michelle Swart

The Severe Weather and Information Centre SA predicts that today, on 17 May, a cold front, spanning thousands of kilometers, will reach the southern regions of the country.

See more weather on the live blog here: Weather live updates

Cold front to bring freezing temperatures an snow

The core of this immense system lies approximately 500km north of the Antarctic coastline.

From this afternoon until tomorrow morning, moderate to heavy rain may occur intermittently between Hermanus in the Western Cape and Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape.

ALSO READ: Western Cape Weather: RAIN and clouds expected TODAY

Tonight, the Western Cape and Eastern Cape will experience cold temperatures.

The southern and south-eastern parts of the Northern Cape, as well as the interior of the Western and Eastern Cape, will become very cold tomorrow.

By Friday, the cold weather will spread to the southern interior of KwaZulu-Natal.

ALSO READ: Eastern Cape Weather: Cold day with some rain expected

Starting from tomorrow night and extending into Friday, there is a possibility of snowfall in the northern highgrounds of the Eastern Cape, southern Drakensberg, adjacent regions of KwaZulu-Natal, and Lesotho.

KEEP YOUR PETS WARM IN COLD WEATHER

As temperatures drop, it’s important to remember that our pets also feel the cold.

Just like us, pets can be at risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and other winter-related hazards.

Here are some tips to help keep your furry friend safe and warm during the colder months.

1. Keep them indoors If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Keep them inside where they can stay cozy and safe. Don’t leave pets in the car alone, as it can act like a refrigerator and hold in the cold air, which can result in your pet freezing and could lead to serious health concerns, including death.
2. Protect their paws After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach. Your pet may step in ice, salt, and chemicals, which can be very painful. Massage petroleum jelly into your pet’s paw pads before going outside to help protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties can also be effective in covering and protecting paws when out on walks.

ALSO READ: LIST: These are the most exclusive places to live in South Africa

1. Keep them warm Never shave your dog down to their skin during winter. Longer coats provide more warmth.
2. Hydrate and feed them well Feed your pet a little extra in the winter months as they work harder to stay warm and burn extra energy. Ensure they are also drinking plenty of water to keep them and their skin hydrated.
3. Provide a warm sleeping area Ensure your furry companion has a warm place to sleep that’s off the floor and away from drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY MICHELLE SWART