Thunderstorms and hail expected in many parts of SA today

The SA Weather Services has issued a level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms with hail today, 3 December, in these parts of SA…

By: Corné van Zyl

SEVERE thunderstorms with hail are expected for TODAY in several parts of the country.

THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH HAIL ARE EXPECTED ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON

According to the SA Weather Service (SAWS) the thunderstorms will start at around 15:00 on Saturday afternoon and continue until midnight. 

The SAWS issued a level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms. 

“Localised flooding of susceptible formal/informal areas and roads, low-lying areas and bridges, difficult driving conditions are possible.” SAWS

The SAWS warned of travel delays due to reduced visibility and wet roads, large amounts of small hail, and injuries.

THESE AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE THUNDERSTORMS AND HAIL

Here are the areas that will be affected on Saturday. 

• Modimolle/Mookgopong – Mookgopong / Mookgopong
• Ephraim Mogale
• Marble Hall
• Makhuduthamaga
• Jane Furse
• Fetakgomo
• Greater Tubatse – Appel
• Fetakgomo/Apel
• Greater Tubatse – Burgersfort
• Tubatse
• Mbombela – Sabie
• Whiteriver
• Mbombela
• Emakhazeni
• Machadodorp
• Thembisile Hani
• Tweefontein
• Mbombela – Barberton
• Emalahleni /Witbank
• Albert Luthuli / Carolina
• Victor Khanye / Delmas
• Msukaligwa / Ermelo
• Govan Mbeki / Secunda
• Steve Tshwete / Middelburg

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HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR CAR DURING HAIL

Tips for avoiding hail damage to your car.

• Drive slowly — slower driving minimises the damage of hail and helps cope with slippery roads.
• Find a safe, covered area immediately or pull over under an overpass, provided it is safe.
• Undercover parking at malls and petrol stations are good temporary solutions to protecting your car during a hail storm.
• Stay in the vehicle. Large hail stones can injure.
• Keep fleecy blankets in your boot so you can cover your car to minimise the impact of hail.
• Take careful note of the extent of the damage to your car, look for damage to all glass items including side mirrors, tail lights and head lights. Taking pictures may be useful.
• If you are affected by hail, report it at once to your insurer.