Snow warning issued for Komani and surrounding areas

Residents in Komani and parts of the Eastern Cape have been warned to prepare for disruptive snowfall later this week, with the South African Weather Service issuing a Level 2 impact-based warning.

The warning, issued early Monday morning, indicates that snow is expected between Wednesday, 6 May and Thursday, 7 May, particularly over high-lying areas in the region.

Areas expected to be affected

The alert includes parts of the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, as well as nearby regions such as Molteno, Tarkastad, Jamestown and areas under the broader Joe Gqabi District.

Forecasters say the system is linked to a cut-off low pressure system moving across the province, which is expected to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms, along with snowfall in elevated areas.

What residents can expect

According to the warning, snowfall may lead to:

• Dangerous driving conditions on roads, especially mountain passes
• Temporary road closures due to snow accumulation
• Disruptions to services
• Potential loss of livestock and crop damage in farming areas

Motorists travelling on routes between Komani, Molteno, Barkly East and surrounding high-altitude areas are likely to be most affected.

Safety advice issued

Authorities are urging residents to take precautions ahead of the cold conditions.

Small-scale farmers are advised to move livestock to sheltered areas to prevent losses. Residents are also encouraged to dress warmly and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly through mountain passes where icy conditions could develop.

Drivers have been warned to exercise extreme caution, as roads may become slippery and hazardous within a short period of snowfall.

Community members are further encouraged to stay updated through official weather channels and local radio stations as conditions develop.

A weather system to watch

While snowfall is not uncommon in parts of the Eastern Cape during winter months, even moderate snowfall can have a significant impact on transport routes and rural livelihoods.

Residents in Komani and surrounding towns are being urged to treat the warning seriously and prepare early to minimise risk.

Further updates are expected as the weather system moves closer to the province.