South Africans to Experience Mild Weather Conditions for 2024 Elections

SAWS reports that sunny and cool weather will prevail over most regions, while the northern provinces can expect sunny and warm conditions.

As South Africans prepare to vote next Wednesday, 29 May 2024, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecasts favorable weather conditions across the country.

SAWS reports that sunny and cool weather will prevail over most regions, while the northern provinces can expect sunny and warm conditions. The lack of severe weather in the days leading up to and on Voting Day is seen as positive news for both voters and election officials.

"It is undoubtedly good news that no severe or extreme weather is anticipated in the lead-up to, and including, Voting Day. It is also very encouraging that daytime weather conditions will remain pleasantly cool over the southern half of the country, while the northern provinces will be warm, but not particularly hot," SAWS stated on Thursday.

The period from Monday, 27 May to Wednesday, 29 May is expected to be predominantly free of rain and clouds. Any rainfall is predicted to be light and localized.

Specific forecasts include:

Monday, 27 May 2024: Sunny and cool conditions are expected, warm in northern areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape, with isolated showers over northern KwaZulu-Natal.

Tuesday, 28 May 2024: Fine and cool conditions are expected, warm in northern Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and Northern Cape, with a 30% chance of drizzle and showers along the north-eastern escarpment.

Wednesday, 29 May 2024 (Voting Day): Warm in northern Limpopo, North West, and Northern Cape, otherwise sunny and cool. Windy and gusty conditions in the western interior may reduce visibility due to blowing dust.

SAWS advises voters and officials to prepare for sunny conditions by wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunblock, and sunglasses, and to stay hydrated, particularly infants, small children, the elderly, and the infirm who are more susceptible to dehydration.

The weather service will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.