SAWS releases weather outlook for elections

Voters heading to the polls for the 2026 Local Government Elections can expect heat and possible thunderstorms during the special voting period, followed by cooler conditions in parts of the east on Election Day, according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS). 

Approved special votes will be cast on 2 and 3 November 2026, ahead of Election Day on 4 November 2026. SAWS noted that spring weather conditions can vary from day to day. 

“The seasonal forecast, influenced by the developing El Niño weather pattern, indicates that parts of the country are likely to receive below-normal rainfall and experience above-normal temperatures. However, showers and thundershowers may still occur in some areas,” SAWS said. 

On Sunday, 1 November 2026, much of the country is expected to be partly cloudy and warm to hot.

Very hot conditions are expected in places across the Northern Cape, North West, Limpopo and the Lowveld of Mpumalanga.

Isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers are expected over most parts of the country, with scattered showers and thundershowers forecast over parts of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.

Similar conditions are expected on the special voting days, Monday and Tuesday, 2 and 3 November 2026, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers possible over several parts of the country.

“Voters are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly, particularly in areas where afternoon thunderstorms are expected. On official election day, Wednesday, 4 November 2026, fine and warm to very hot conditions are expected over the central and western parts of the country,” SAWS said. 

In contrast, parts of the east are expected to be partly cloudy and cool, with possible morning drizzle along the eastern Drakensberg.

Isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers are also expected in the east.

SAWS advises voters, election officials and the public to consider the forecast when planning their activities. Members of the public are encouraged to:

• Stay hydrated and take precautions against heat exposure, particularly in areas expecting very hot conditions.
• Carry umbrellas or raincoats where showers and thundershowers are expected.
• Allow sufficient time for travel and exercise caution on wet roads, especially during periods of reduced visibility.
• Monitor official SAWS weather forecasts, warnings and advisories for updates on changing weather conditions.

SAWS will continue to monitor weather conditions throughout the voting period and issue severe weather warnings and advisories when necessary.

Members of the public are encouraged to follow official SAWS communication platforms for the latest weather updates. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Source: Original report at SAnews.gov.za.