A strong cold front will bring snow and subzero temperatures to parts of South Africa this week, reports The South African. Forecasters are urging residents to prepare for winter weather that could disrupt travel and daily life.
The South African Weather Service and independent meteorologists report that the cold front, which began moving across the country from May 1, is expected to deliver bitterly cold conditions, rainfall, and the potential for widespread snow, mainly over higher terrain. The Western Cape and Northern Cape, including the Cape Winelands, Central Karoo, Little Karoo, and the southern Namakwa district, are under advisories for cold, wet, and windy weather, with light snow possible at higher elevations.
Forecast models indicate subzero temperatures for several provinces, with the most severe cold expected in Lesotho, the Drakensberg mountains, and the extreme northern parts of the Eastern Cape. Temperatures in some areas may fall below -5ºC (20ºF), with wind chill making it feel even colder. While weather models still have uncertainty regarding the exact amount and distribution of snow, the consensus is that conditions favor snowfall in mountainous regions.
The South African Weather Service monitors the evolving situation and will provide updates as the cold front progresses. For now, South Africans in the Western and Northern Cape and anyone traveling through high-altitude regions should stay alert and watch local forecasts as the country braces for a taste of winter.
South Africa and the neighboring mountain kingdom of Lesotho offer some of the continent’s only opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Tiffindell Ski Resort, in the Southern Drakensberg near Rhodes in the Eastern Cape, is South Africa’s sole ski resort and boasts a top elevation of 9,612 feet (2,930 meters). Established in 1993, Tiffindell features two trails covering 1.25 miles (2 kilometers), a snow fun-park, and 100% snowmaking capability, allowing for reliable skiing during the winter months of June to August. The resort also hosts national and international ski races, including the South African National FIS Championships. The resort was put up for sale in July 2024 and is still for sale as of May 2025. The resort officially closed its doors following prolonged financial challenges caused by COVID-19 lockdowns and inconsistent snowfall. Its website prominently displays a “For Sale” notice, and Chris Stevens of Chris Stevens Real Estate handles the sale.
Afriski Mountain Resort, in Lesotho’s Maluti Mountains at an altitude of 10,571 feet (3,222 meters), is the only ski resort in Lesotho and one of just two in Sub-Saharan Africa. Afriski offers 1.1 miles (1.8 kilometers) of slopes, served by two lifts, and is known for its artificial snow, lively après-ski scene, and various winter competitions. The resort operates mainly in winter but provides summer activities such as mountain biking and trail running. Afriski is accessible by a five-hour drive from Johannesburg, making it a popular destination for local and international visitors.
